As the chill of winter starts to settle over Lake Macquarie, there’s no better way to warm your heart (and delight your palate) than by setting off on a culinary adventure through the region’s top restaurants.

This winter, Lake Macquarie’s food scene is more vibrant than ever, offering a diverse array of flavours and experiences that promise to satisfy every type of foodie. Whether you’re a local or a visitor this Lake Macquarie winter restaurant foodie trail offers a gastronomic journey you won’t want to miss.

Lake Macquarie City Council is inviting you to discover some of the region’s most enticing foodie experiences and be in with a chance to WIN Sunday brunch on the Lake for six people on board a luxury 40ft Beneteau yacht with Silver Sun Sailing.

How to enter:

- Dine at any foodie location in Lake Macquarie
- Post a photo or video of your foodie experience on Instagram using the hashtag #LakeMacFoodie, tagging @visitlakemac, and the venue you’re dining at
- Show some love by following the Visit Lake Mac Instagram page
- Tag a friend you’d love to invite for a feast on the luxury yacht

For more information on this epic competition, click here.

To get your tastebuds tingling, start with our guide to our top five restaurants to check out in Lake Macquarie – curating your very own winter restaurant foodie trail – happy dining!

8 at Trinity

Start your journey at the undeniably popular 8 at Trinity in Morisset where contemporary Australian cuisine meets sophisticated ambiance.

Wind your way through the freshly developed Trinity Point residential area before you arrive at this absolute cracker of a structure. The luxurious resort-like restaurant experience will transport you to Lake Macquarie’s version of Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

Whether you’re looking for simplicity in their pizza menu or an over-the-top dish, 8 at Trinity offers it all. The premium yet approachable modern Australian menu focuses on seasonal and local produce with strong influences of flavours and techniques from Europe.

In keeping with the resort-like dining experience, diners can expect a collection of some of the most intriguing cocktail creations, offering nothing short of a theatrical wow factor.
Where: 81 Trinity Point Dr, Morisset Park

Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows

Next, head to Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows in Caves Beach. Here, the breathtaking ocean views are matched only by the approachable yet refined pub-like menu and relaxed beachside vibes – making it an ideal spot for a cosy winter meal.

The kitchen has mastered its menu with a casually sophisticated offering whilst remaining simple, effective, good for the kids, and above all – absolutely scrumptious.

Make the most of coastal dining in Lake Macquarie at Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows with their stunning ocean views, fresh flavours, and those iconic Lake Macquarie vibes.
Where: 27 Mawson Cl, Caves Beach 

Emerson’s on the Lake

Continue your trail with a visit to Emerson’s on the Lake in Toronto, where the stunning lakeside setting enhances a menu rich in fresh local produce.

Situated inside Toronto’s Royal Motor Yacht Club, Emerson’s on the Lake has continuously booked out week in week out since their opening in late February. With a menu reflecting Chef Emerson Rodriguez’s personal commitment to quality food, items are updated every three to four days to keep the true foodies on their toes.

With its lakeside setting, the menu actively boasts a strong focus on seafood with dishes like the king prawns, snapper, and fresh black mussels a complete standout. 
Where: 6 Arnott Ave, Toronto

Martha Drink & Dine

Make your way over to Martha Drink & Dine situated inside the Belmont 16s – a venue that perfectly blends casual dining with an upscale twist.

Martha’s offers a diverse menu, an impressive drink selection, and a delightful vantage point of the lake. The architecturally designed fitout and a Mediterranean-inspired menu – there’s nothing else quite like it in the Lake Macquarie area.

Whether it’s a rugged-up long lunch on the terrace, cool nights with friends lingering over dinner and drinks in the restaurant or a cosy date night cocktail on the bar, drop by Martha’s this winter.
Where: The Parade, Belmont 

TINTA

Finally, round off your culinary tour at TINTA, also located in Belmont. This chic and contemporary eatery has built a strong following since its opening in 2022. Featuring a contemporary coastal foodie offering with a heavy seafood focus, TINTA’s flavours perfectly align with the venue’s location.

Overlooking the lake, TINTA invites diners to experience their elevated and refined indoor space that extends out onto their expansive deck space. For something slightly more relaxed, step outside into the venue’s beer garden.

With its Hamptons-like interior and seafood-focused menu, TINTA is the perfect conclusion to your Lake Macquarie winter foodie trail. 
Where: 690 Pacific Hwy, Belmont

Bundle up, gather your loved ones, and set out to explore the rich and diverse culinary offerings of Lake Macquarie this winter. Each of these venues promise not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience that might just have you returning for more.

Don’t forget to follow the prompts for Lake Macquarie Council’s winter foodie trail competition!