Five winery restaurants near Sydney worth the drive
The sun is shining, the views are never-ending, and there's a dedicated driver (or transport arranged), so what could be better than enjoying a long lunch at a winery near Sydney?Destination dining is a wonderful thing, and if you’re thinking of heading out for the day (or longer) for a long lunch or dinner, a winery location is a better bet. To escape Sydney for open spaces, glorious views, wonderful food and of course, a glass of wine from the source, here are five fab winery restaurants worth a drive.
Hunters Quarter, Pokolbin
Affectionately abbreviated to HQ by locals, Hunters Quarter sits atop a rise overlooking the vines of Pooles Rock winery. You couldn’t ask for a better Hunter Valley dining spot and with chef Brian Duncan creating intricate takes on fresh and seasonal produce the menu is just as good. Every seat inside the glass case that is the restaurant has beautiful views, but the vast deck is the place to be on a warm day with a glass of wine and the prospect of a long lunch ahead.
Pipeclay Pumphouse, Mudgee
The vibrant rural city and wine region of Mudgee is a hive of activities and good for at least an overnighter. Don’t miss Pipeclay Pumphouse for a remarkable fine-dining experience: Chef Andy Crestani’s restaurant at Robert Stein Winery is a feast of local produce presented over a six-course fixed menu. You’re surrounded by the kitchen garden, vineyards and possibly some of the free-range piggies that make it from paddock to plate and the wines couldn’t have travelled less distance. Definitely one for the bucket list.
Cupitt’s Estate, Ulladulla
The NSW South Coast has produce in abundance (think oysters, seafood and livestock grazing on green pastures) and Cupitt’s Estate embraces this natural larder. This family farm near Mollymook also has a lush kitchen garden and all this goodness goes into the restaurant for your enjoyment. It’s a relaxed dining experience, whether in the restaurant, or the plates-and-pizza vibe of Dusty’s Garden. Gaze over the hills while sipping wine from the vines out front and let the rural charm envelop your senses.
Southern Highlands Winery, Sutton Forest
You’d think the name says it all: SHW is in the glorious Southern Highlands a couple of hours from Sydney and only minutes from beautiful Bowral. But the twist here is the winery’s restaurant is more akin to an Italian trattoria where chef Marco Salvestrin turns local produce – think rabbit, duck, yabbies, fruit and veg – into delectable Italian menus. Long lunches are special and relaxed, while the estate’s wines are many and well matched to the food. La dolce vita never tasted so good.
Cambewarra Estate, Bangalee
It’s just a two-hour drive from Sydney down to Shoalhaven on the South Coast and nestled beneath Cambewarra Mountain is Cambewarra Estate, a winery with an idyllic location, top-notch drops and a vibrant restaurant beside the vines. Weekend lunch is the main event with a nicely accessible range of entrees and mains, and a scrummy high tea is icing on the cake. Estate and regional wines, local beers and cocktails abound so make the most of a big day out or even stay the night in a cosy cottage.
Related: Five Hunter Valley wineries to visit
Related: Five quirky and unique Australian winery stays
Related: Where to eat along the Hume Highway between Sydney and Canberra
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
