Where to Eat, Shop and Visit in Bathurst and its surroundings

Where to Eat, Shop and Visit in Bathurst and its surroundings

A true city girl, eight years ago I left my beloved home in Sydney’s Inner West to live in the NSW town of Bathurst.

My husband and I settled on a farm 20kms out of town, with so much space for our boys to explore. Being a city lover and moving to a farm where the closest neighbour is at least 1km away, I needed to find places that made me feel connected with this new life.

Food has always been a big love of mine and I’m sure it feels the same for most. The memories of the most delicious smells and tastes, they can bring you back in time and take you to those special places.

So, I began a subconscious exploration of the town’s culinary beauties, and it’s brought me to my list of favourites below.

 

If you're in Bathurst or heading to Bathurst and are wondering what to do, where to eat, and where to shop, just read below for my favourite spots.

And a list wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t add some things I love to do and the places my family and I love to visit when we have a spare weekend (meaning – no kids’ sports!)

Enjoy!!

 

Where I love to Eat

Coffee + Lunch


Bake, Table & Tea
This is my absolute favourite store in Bathurst! It is also the place I used to spend the most time when I had just moved and felt lonely. It was my home away from home.
Think warm scones, the most beautiful range of teas, gluten/dairy & sugar-free cakes and slices & homemade meals.
This is your go-to place for all things kitchen and dining, stocking Maxwell Williams, Robert Gordon and so many beautiful homeware brands. 
And not to forget the cake tools section, which is insane!!! 
All of this, welcomed by friendly faces and warm hearts.
 
The Hub
Offers full breakfast, brunch and lunch, and a gorgeous outdoor sitting area under the vines. You can still get your take-away drinks and sweets, but it’s a wonderful space to sit down and enjoy their lovely meals.
It is quite popular, so you may want to book ahead.
 
Doppio
This is our go-to on weekend breaks in between soccer matches. It’s close to Proctor Park and Police Paddock, where most of the soccer games are held, so it’s a no-brainer for us.
It’s mainly an outdoor café (a plus if you have young kids), surrounded by beautifully-restored old buildings.
Loved by dogs and cyclists.
 
The Refreshment Room
A sister of Doppio’s, it’s located next to the Railway Museum. It has a lovely sunken area for little kids to play, with big foam blocks for them to be entertained while you sip your favourite drink.
 
Crema
Wonderful coffee and particularly great when you’re shorter of time. Located opposite the beautiful Machattie Park, just grab something and go feed the ducks…or not 😆
 
Bathurst Health Foods
They are the place for all-things organic, offering delicious sweets, salads, sandwiches and anything on the healthier side of things.
They also have a big selection of products, ranging from fresh vegetables and fruits to body and makeup.
 
Pear Tree
Another one of our healthier cafes. Their display fridge is filled with homemade sweets, bowls, quiches and sandwiches.
 
Piccolo’s
Take away or sit down. They have a very nice breakfast and lunch menu, and they are licensed.
It is quite popular, so you may want to book ahead!
 
Harvest
Lately, one of our favourite places to have lunch as they have my favourite meal, The Carrington. The kids love the meals here too and my husband and I can chat while they play outside. It’s attached to a huge oval so, plenty of space to kick a ball, run a track, or watch the adult’s weekend cricket matches.
Right next to the Information Centre, it’s a great spot to stop after a long trip.
 
Moubar Vintage & Bootleg Bakery
You won’t find this unless you search for it.
Coffee + the best sourdough (truly), tucked inside a quaint little courtyard.

 

 

Dinner + Drinks

Kizuya

A sister restaurant of Raku Izakaya in Orange, this is the first modern Japanese restaurant in Bathurst. We have been so impressed with the quality of the food that is definitely our favourite place to eat. Not cheap, especially as it’s made us dream of booking a trip to Japan, but worth it.

 

Vine & Tap

Tucked in a quaint courtyard, Vine & Tap is the go-to place when you’re in the mood for an Italian night out. In the evenings, the fairy lights are on, making you feel like you’re in some Mediterranean village. Food is tapas-size style, so perfect to try a few of the dishes. The mushroom arancini is always a favourite!

 

Church Bar

For all the gourmet pizza lovers, this is the place. Cute, trendy and delicious; it’s all in one place. Right off William street, you won’t see it unless you have directions.

 

The George Hotel

Leaning more towards a restaurant than a pub, you get all the classics plus a whole lot more. Great with kids too!

 

The Victoria Bathurst

The Vic, as us Bathurstians like to call it, is our top pick to have a relaxed, quick and enjoyable pub dinner.

The outdoor area is host to many live music events, where you can bring along your kids and/or pets.

 

Reckless Brewing Co

New-ish to town, Beer is at the centre here. They also serve food on a limited menu.

 

Whiskey & Wags

Not a fan of whiskey myself, but the others I went along with, were impressed with it. I tried my very first Espresso Martini here! They serve tapas-style dishes.

 

 

Where I love to Shop

Bake, Table & Tea

Anything to do with things for the kitchen or dining, this is my first point of call. Also, if I’m buying a present, or specialised teas, I make sure I visit them first.

If you’re searching for cute homely things, they have them…including my own art tea towels!! So proud to have them in their store 🧡

 

Gorgeousness & Gorgeousness Home

Beautiful fashion, handbags, jewellery, soft furnishings, cute furniture and a section especially for kids. Everything you need to make you and your home feel lovely and cosy.

I also buy a lot of gifts from here.

 

Sassy My Style

Stockists of Ikou and Glasshouse products in Bathurst, they also have some beautiful objects for the home.

 

Dejorja + Florence Grace Floristry

Fashion, coffee and flowers all in one place. Though you may never get to the cafe and floris at the back, as you’ll probably get lost browsing all the gorgeous clothes.

 


What I love to Do

🔸 Visit the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (BRAG) - they have incredible art exhibitions, including recently the Archie 100
🔸 Visit the Australian Fossil & Mineral Museum
🔸 Take a trip to Millthorpe, Carcoar, Orange, Sofala and Hill End
🔸 Go hiking to Borenore Caves, Evans Crown in Tarana or Mount Canobolas
  

Events

Summer

🍋 February – Bathurst Liqui Moly 12 hour car race

 

Autumn

🍑 Late March through to mid May – Autumn colours
One of the most beautiful times of the year to visit Bathurst and the surrounding towns, as the trees turn into beautiful reds, oranges and yellow. The poplars are stunning at this time of year.

🍏 May - The Huddle – a weekend of inspiration and learning for business women, hosted by Jumbled in Orange

 

Winter

⛸ Winter Festival – Food, Wine & Events, including McDonald’s Ice Rink

 

Spring

🌸 Cherry trees dress the streets. Get ready for music festivals and the world-famous Bathurst 1000

 

 

 

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