Wine and Dine in the Upper Mountains
There is nothing more satisfying than an amazing dining experience. We’re lucky in the Blue Mountains that we have wonderful restaurants that excel with flavoursome combinations and excellent beverages.
In the Upper Blue Mountains, we have some excellent award-winning restaurants and have even earned top honours in the culinary world – Chef Hats. By that, I don’t mean what cooks wear on their heads, but the award judged by the Australian Good Food Guides (AGFG).
So, whether you’re in need of some excellent food, a date night with your partner (a gentle reminder that Valentine’s Day isn’t too far away…), or want to support local businesses, we’ve got some selections we think just might become your new favourite restaurants.
Silk’s Brasserie, Wentworth Falls
One of the four restaurants in the Blue Mountains with a Chef’s Hat is Silk’s Brasserie. Once a Leura landmark, Silk’s Brasserie now calls Wentworth Falls – Silvermere – its new home. While the location may be new, the food and service are still just as excellent.
Classy and delicious food is in their nature with their menu taking on a French influence. Whether you’re sitting down for a two or three-course meal, it’s bound to have you drooling. If you could score the presentation, it’d likely be an 11/10.
As the restaurant says, it is never too early to introduce the little ones to good food. While they don’t have a kids menu, the staff are happy to accommodate to find something they will enjoy.
A delicious dish from the Silk’s Brasserie menu. Credit: Silk’s Brasserie.
Located just off the main strip of Leura is the contemporary, award-winning Leura Garage. From a mechanic’s workshop to a sustainable restaurant, it is now one of the hottest spots in Leura. With a menu spanning from brunch, lunch, and dinner, there is something to please everyone. With share plates and a set menu also as an option, it’s a perfect place to go with friends.
The Leura Garage prides itself on cooking with locally-sourced food and serving wines from the Central Ranges, including top wineries in Orange and Mudgee. Due to its local popularity, it is often busy so it is best to book to avoid disappointment.
Darleys is very much a “treat yourself” dining experience with an immense history and an elite reputation. The Hatted restaurant is located in the original and heritage-listed Lilianfels House – built over 100 years ago – is fitted with two open fireplaces and furnishings that sing elegance and luxury.
It’s vintage charm couples perfectly with its modern menu. The 3-Course menu embraces contemporary Australian dining with sophisticated and exquisite flavours. It is not just limited to adults either – there is a children’s menu available also.
Miss Lilian Tea House, Katoomba
For authentic Asian dining, look no further than Miss Lilian Tea House. On the same property as Darleys, it compliments the Hatted restaurant with a more casual dining experience. As you look out towards the Blue Mountains National Park and Echo Point, Miss Lilian Tea House will transport you to the streets of Asia.
While the atmosphere may be laid-back, its flavours and menu is anything but. This Escarpment Group restaurant takes Asian comfort food classics of Dumplings, curries, noodles, bao buns and transforms them. As the name suggests, you can also enjoy oriental teas of the East and petit fours for something more light.
Menu selections from Miss Lilian Tea House. Credit: Miss Lilian Tea House.
Enter through the 1930s Savoy theatre foyer to one of the more unique restaurants in Katoomba. Find yourself surrounded by the retro decor, fascinating artworks and a nostalgic backdrop of vintage music that will charm you as much as its meals.
With influences from many global cuisines, Avalon’s hearty menu embraces the perks of modern Australian dining. The drinks list is wonderfully extensive, with over 80 Australian wines and beers. Its original and classic cocktails list is perfectly curated for its quirky venue.
While it is best to enjoy your dining experience, remember to be conscious of the current COVID-19 restrictions and respect the rules in place by these local restaurants.
