Central Coast’s Newest Foodie Havens

From buzzing brunches to modern European and fresh feasts, grab your appetite and get ready to treat your taste buds as we unveil the latest gems that have blossomed on the Central Coast since our last rendezvous! From cozy cafes to sizzling restaurants and refreshing juice bars, these newcomers are set to take the local food scene by storm. Join us as we embark on a delightful journey of flavours, where community, culture, and coffee converge at every corner!

Brunch N Brew, Tuggerah

Brunch N Brew is more than just a café—it’s a social hub where simple yet fresh meals take centre stage. With every bite, they aim to bring people closer together while fuelling their appetites with mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re craving a scrumptious brunch or a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, their menu has it all. Their brunch menu features all the favourites including eggs benny, a big breakfast, their take on smashed avo, pancakes, classic B&E roll and much more. Their lunch menu is also jam packed with options ranging from what have been claimed as the ‘best wedges’ which can be served alongside some squid, a burger or a parmigiana.

Brunch N Brew promises to create an inviting culture that nourishes both your taste buds and your sense of belonging. Located on the ground floor of HomeCo in Tuggerah, parking is easy and there’s plenty of seating.

BLKBIRD, Toukley

Prepare to be captivated by the latest venture from the renowned hospitality moguls, the Meraki Group. BLKBIRD, a Modern European Dining & Cocktail Bar, is set to dazzle your senses with its exquisite offerings. While details are tantalisingly scarce, the allure surrounding this establishment is undeniable and the feedback coming out of their opening weekend has us very excited.

With the Meraki Group’s reputation for delivering unparalleled dining experiences, BLKBIRD is poised to take the Central Coast by storm.  Stay tuned for more updates and a firsthand look at BLKBIRD’s modern European delights and innovative cocktail creations. The Meraki Group’s mastery is certain to leave a lasting impression on discerning palates and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

Check out what’s happening over on their socials @BLKBIRD.DINING

OG Bowls, Gosford

Brace yourself for a fresh and invigorating dining experience as OG Bowls gears up to open its doors in Gosford. This trendy new salad bar is set to revolutionise the way we enjoy healthy meals with their enticing array of “bowls.” Offering a vibrant selection of nutritious ingredients carefully curated into beautifully composed bowls, OG Bowls is a haven for those seeking both flavour and nourishment. From colourful veggie bowls bursting with crisp greens to protein-packed creations that will leave you energised, their menu is designed to satisfy every palate.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure where freshness meets creativity, and where every bowl is a work of art that’s as delightful to behold as it is to devour! Be sure to follow them on Instagram to keep up to date with their much anticipated opening.

The Naan Theory, Gosford

Our next stop will take you straight to the heart of India at The Naan Theory, an Indian restaurant in Gosford. Passionate about showcasing the bold and vibrant flavours of this exotic cuisine, their skilled chefs have mastered the art of traditional Indian cooking. Using only the freshest ingredients, they create dishes that will transport your taste buds to new realms of delight. With a perfect balance of authenticity and modern innovation, The Naan Theory presents an unforgettable dining experience. From classic favourites like chicken tikka masala and butter chicken to hidden gems from regional specialties, their menu caters to diverse palates. Vegetarians and vegans are also well-catered for with an array of delightful options. Get ready to savour the rich and aromatic tastes of India, where food is celebrated as an experience to be cherished.

LongBrows, Tuggerah

A tropical haven blending South American vibes, Tiki cocktails, and infectious beats has landed at Westfield Tuggerah. Immerse yourself in the palm-fringed sanctuary, indulge in their South American street food, and sip thoughtfully crafted cocktails. From intimate loft settings to family-friendly options, LongBrows offers a unique experience with DJs igniting the party at night. Join them for a weekend escape filled with flavour, music, and boundless creativity. 

Laneway & Co Cafe, East Gosford

Discover the hip and vibrant Laneway & Co Cafe, nestled in an old warehouse in East Gosford. This cool new spot embraces a laid-back atmosphere while offering mouthwatering breakfast, coffee, and lunch options while you relax in the comfy sofa chairs. 

They take pride in blending Aussie classics with a touch of Brazilian flair, creating a unique menu that will delight your taste buds. For a laid-back and stylish cafe with a twist, Laneway & Co Cafe is the place to be. Join the locals in embracing this culinary gem, where Aussie classics meet Brazilian flair.

Tastea Fast Nutrition, Gosford

Experience the refreshing delights of Tastea Fast Nutrition, Gosford’s newest smoothie and nutrition studio. This venue offers a unique solution when you’re craving a lighter lunch option: their high protein, nutritious and delicious smoothies and loaded teas.

Their smoothies are blended with water and ice and pack a punch with 15-25g of protein. They have a low-calorie content and are a source of vitamins and minerals. For those seeking convenience and nutrition. Visit Tastea Fast Nutrition in Gosford for a revitalising pick-me-up. 

Terry’s, Terrigal

Prepare to elevate your beachside dining experience at Terry’s, where the combination of a vibrant bar and casual dining creates the perfect atmosphere for seaside fun. Located on the iconic Terrigal Beach, this venue prepares to open its doors so you can sip on refreshing cocktails as you soak in the sea breeze, paired with a meal from their menu which includes burgers, ribs and fried chicken. Terry’s is where casual meets FUN!

Opening in late July get ready to unwind, dine, and embrace the laid-back vibe of Terrigal Beach! Be sure to follow them over on their Instagram to keep updated with their latest news.

Bollito Pasta, Wyong 

After the incredible success Bollito has seen since opening their hole in the wall, handmade and small-batch pasta bar in Gosford, they are expanding.  Opening in a new space at the Wyong Milk Factory.  You can expect a similar vibe so think hole in the wall, minimalist, handcrafted and artisanal but also think “for the love of pasta!”.  Mark’s passion lies in keeping the dying art of “pastaiolo” alive.   With 24 years of pasta-making experience, he’s a creative genius!  It’s no wonder that in a little as 10 months after opening their doors in Gosford they won Australian Good Food Guide’s Readers Choice Award for providores.

Stocking freshly hand made pastas of all shapes and varieties.  A range of fresh sauces, ready-made take home and more.  Perfect for these chilly winter days.

Run don’t walk!  And give Mark and Bollito a follow on the gram on your way.

Continue Reading:

New Openings to Support on the Central Coast this Winter

Bollito Pasta Brings a Taste of Italy to Gosford

New Openings on the Central Coast – March ’23

The Central Coast has so many amazing food options, with many new options being added every month. We have put together a list of a few we’ve come across recently.

1. Smoking Penguin – Tuggerah 

Tuggerah Business Park just got social with Luke and his team bringing the smoked goods to a purpose-built, fully licensed bar and restaurant facility. Currently in a soft-opening mode, they hope to be fully operational by mid-April. 

Picture live music, good vibes, food cooked low and slow, and a huge drink selection for the perfect weekend evening. A local and welcoming vibe for your lunchtime session ales. And for those passing through from 7am, you can enjoy coffee from specialty wood-roasted coffee beans from the team at the Wood Roaster with a fine selection of breakfast options available.

It won’t take you long to understand why their motto is ‘Come Hungry’! These guys will feed you with their delicious smokehouse style menu, with plenty of options on both their lunch and dinner menus.

Keeping their menu fluid, they want to craft their meals as they learn new things and discover new and exciting flavours, so be prepared to be impressed each and every time you show up. 

Their banquets sound like the perfect excuse to gather your friends, work colleagues, family or neighbours and get down to check out Tuggerah’s newest offering.

Keep up to date with their journey and events via their Instagram or website.

2. The Good Bits Co – opening a second location in Gosford

You must be doing something right when, within your first 12 months of trading, you realise the demand for a second location. That is what happened to the team at the Good Bits Co, who learned very quickly that they needed additional space for their talented bakers to continue bringing the people what they want. 

What is it that the people want, you ask? Freshly baked goods, a delicious range of sweet pastries, and a selection of irresistible pies and sausage rolls. 

And, 5 ½ years on, the Good Bits Co are offering double the fun since they have just opened their second location at 81 Mann Street, Gosford.

A bakery style offering, they will exclusively offer their baked goods which can be served alongside batch brew, the hardest part will be deciding what to choose.

This is just around the corner from their current location (corner of Mortimer Lane & Donnison Street) in Gosford where you can still sit down to breakfast, brunch or lunch from their full menu.

Another very valid reason has been added to the ever-growing list of reasons to visit Gosford.

Visit their Instagram or Facebook profiles now. 

3. Lago Cucina at Budgewoi Hotel

Lago Cucina is set to offer a unique dining experience to the Central Coast community and beyond. Guests will journey up the stairs into a bright and inviting space where the textured white walls, natural stone, and arched enclaves evoke the feeling of a breezy summer day on the Mediterranean coastline. The contemporary Italian menu features an array of classic and modern dishes that showcase Mediterranean-inspired flavours.

Guests can enjoy traditional favourites such as antipasti served with focaccina, handmade burrata, and classic wood-fired pizzas, as well as more innovative options. To complement the menu, the restaurant’s skilled mixologists have crafted a range of cocktails that perfectly capture the essence of Italy.

Lago Cucina’s opening hours will be Wednesday to Friday from 6 to 11pm and Saturday to Sunday from 12 to 11pm and 12 to 10pm, respectively. Guests can also contact the events team to enquire about hosting private events and exclusive hire of the restaurant.

For reservations or more information, visit Lago Cucina’s website or call 02 4390 9336.

@lagocucinabudgewoi

4. The Caspian Mediterranean Bar & Grill – Davistown

Having opened in January, this little gem has been popular among our Coasties community. And for good reason. Who doesn’t love a Mediterranean restaurant?

Located in the quiet little suburb of Davistown, it is a destination restaurant worth the trip.

People are raving about the food from their Middle-Eastern inspired menu and the generous servings. 

Open from 4:30pm Wednesday through Sunday. Visit their Facebook page to check out their website.

5. Tallows – Hardys Bay

Among one of the most beautiful locations on the Central Coast, this restaurant and bar is located across from the water in the tranquil Hardys Bay. 

The menu is small and simple, with dine in or takeaway options available.

Open from midday Wednesday to Sunday, it is the perfect spot to grab lunch or dinner. 

Social pages: Instagram & Facebook

6. C9 Chocolate & Gelato – Tuggerah

If your sweet tooth is asking for some attention, we have the place for you. Located in Westfield Tuggerah, this dessert bar is highly passionate about their gelato.

Self-proclaimed gelato maestros, their Italian gelato maker has over 20 years of experience.

A full dessert menu is available, including crepes, croffles, donuts, cronuts, hot chocolate, coffee and cold drinks – this one suits anyone with a hankering for something sweet!

Follow them via their Facebook or Instagram pages.

Keep Reading: Older new openings to keep in mind

The new Inner Glow Kiosk in Ettalong. Image supplied.

Hiding in plain sight, there’s been an exciting influx of incredible new local businesses in our region over the last few months.

We’re talking slick bars, an ice-cream parlour straight out of your unicorn dreams, a simply satisfying symmetric bulk food store and so many more.

Here’s a full list of the newest openings to visit asap.

Shady Palms

Okay, it might not be new new. But since Shady Palms opened in late November, it has become the go-to spot on the Coast. On the weekends, a line weaves around the chic building and down into the carpark. And there’s a reason.

The team – of Mumbo Jumbo’s fame – have been particular with every detail. The interiors, the menu, the drinks, the staff. It is all meticulously picked, planned and perfected to ensure that a visit is nothing short of memory making.

Lavender Goat

Charmhaven might not initially conjure images of being your must-visit Coast destination, but alas, Lavender Goat – which opened in early December – is changing that. This pretty-as-a-picture café not only had a perfectly executed opening, avoiding the well-versed teething problems of new eatery launches, but it has already cemented itself as the go-to spot for coffee afficionados.

That’s all down to its owner, Kim. She’s a coffee guru, previously working at some of the biggest bean houses in our country. She is a self-confessed obsessive, serving each cup with absolute care.

But it isn’t just about the coffee here. You’ll find a blend of naughty and nice eats, with the peanut smoothie bowl a must, and a seamlessy-designed café or tranquil garden to enjoy it within.

The Endless Summer Avoca

We’ll be honest, we’re kind of obsessed with The Endless Summer in Avoca. The owner Kylie opened late last year and has an unrivalled skill when it comes to collecting and showcasing some of the chicest fashion, unique homewares and jewellery.

Her eye is firmly on local creators, and she leads a super friendly team who create a boutique space that’s welcoming, rather than intimidating. Also, they do Friday afternoon bubbles and browsing which is always fun times.

Lyon’s Den

Although this fav of ours is technically still closed for it’s spunky revamp and relocation, we had to mention it so you could stay tuned for it’s exciting new opening this summer of ’24/25. Featuring a unique, Coastie-run South African kitchen made truly authentic with the collaboration of Saffas (South Africans) from Old Mates Kitchen, Lyon’s Den is well known not just for its delicious bites to eat (South African ‘boerewors’ sausages are a must-try), but also it’s amazing cocktails and numerous fun events, including a range of “Den Expriences” which make for perfect birthday, hens or just-because parties. Lucky for us, it’s about to get even more spectacular with it’s new rooftop bar, outdoor cinema and Den arcade – so definitely be sure to stay in tune!

Terrigal Beach House

The newest of the Coast’s openings goes to the Terrigal Beach House which opened just after New Year’s Day. For the nosy beaks of us, we’ve been watching and waiting as work has been done to this spot, found just beneath the Crowne Plaza Terrigal, for months.

And finally, it has opened as a chic beachfront bar and eatery, which is the perfect spot to bust open some bubbles and crack into the oysters. Oh, and let’s be real, it’s prime people watching real estate.

Daily Dough Co. 

And while you’re in Terrigal, why not pop into the brand new Daily Dough Co. Opening just before Christmas, the second store of the notoriously indulgent doughnuts has been a sell out most days. We can hear you Southern-end Coasties whooping with delight at not having to travel Wyong every damn time you wanted a DDC hit.

Flash that Coasties Card and you’ll also get an exclusive deal, with a small coffee and a cinnamon or OG doughnut for $5 instead $9. Or when you purchase a DYO 6 pack, you’ll get 10% off making it a delicious $27. Huzzah!

Aryele The Label

Opening just days before Christmas, this stunning new nook, found in the collection of shops under the Crowne Plaza Terrigal, is packed with some of the most unique finds you’ll discover on the Coast.

We’re talking super-slow fashion, with each piece having the most unique story, from labels who help women out of sex trafficking by giving them seamstress jobs. Mix in sustainable products, like soaps, glasses and Moroccan towels, and it’s hard to leave empty handed.

The owners, Kellie & Brooke, believe that shopping should be a mindful experience and have been particular in what they’ve chosen to place inside these pretty walls.

Social Junction

Let’s be real, coffee competition is strong in Avoca. There’s a total of 23 shopfronts within the village and waterfront, and 18 of them are dedicated to coffee. But Social Junction, opening in late October, eyed up the competition and has arrived strong with a mix blend that has already cemented a loyal following.  Add in friendly staff, a wide-ranging breakfast and lunch menu, and a funky mural, and we’re onto a leading winner.

Inner Glow Kiosk

From the awesome team behind the Inner Glow Goodness juices, the Inner Glow Kiosk is their first walk-in café and juice bar. Opening in early December in Ettalong, just opposite Salman and Co, here you’ll find fresh salads, baked goods, raw treats, coffee and, of course, their famous cold-pressed juices. Early days but already selling out most days.

Psst. Don’t forget Coasties Card members get 15% off Inner Glow Goodness cleanses. Just use your unique code when ordering online. Not a member? Sign up here.

Sundaesesh

And award for the best new name of a business goes to – drum roll please – Sundaesesh, a new ice-cream parlour in Umina. It’s all about the details here. The interiors are hand painted with colourful rainbows, bright pink statement walls and old-school parlour booths.

Add in an outstanding selection of ice-cream flavours and it’s perhaps no surprise the team have been scooping non-stop from 12pm until 8pm since opening in late December. Best bit? You can get your scoop in a cone, bowl or sundae, but should really go for the unicorn bowl. Just a heads up.

Pizza Peddlers

Let’s be real, looking in, Pizza Peddlers in Ettalong, next door to The Grand Pavilion, looks nothing more than your standard takeout pizza joint. But looks can deceive and here you’ll find a brilliant addition to the ever-growing Ettalong epicurean scene. Best of all? If you’re gluten-free, their bases are some of the best. Enjoy!

Rose & Renoir

There’s a growing trend of loading up and splashing some paint around, but Rose & Renoir is a little different. It’s actually created by an artist, Suzie Goumas, who runs the events out of the historic Avoca Beach Picture Theatre. Suzie is passionate about unlocking everyone’s painting potential, and she’s hands on when it comes to helping even the most novice of us.

And Rose & Renoir have also joined the Coasties Card, offering members classes for $45 instead of $59.

Pure Bulk Foods

Pure Bulk Foods opened late last year, also in Ettalong, and it’s a dream for the neat freaks of us. You know, the type who’ve never heard of an un-matching Tupperware cupboard.

You’ll find rows upon rows of neatly lined containers and glass bottles filled with everything imaginable. It’s a true feast for the eyes, and the tummy.

Espresso Martine

Visit the old Sliced by Bam Vino site in Green Point and you’ll now find Espresso Martine. This is the team’s second spot, with their first being in Woy Woy. Here you’ll find speciality coffee, fresh bakery goods and simple but delicious wraps and toasties. But more than anything, the EM team are super friendly and always down for a good chat. A great addition to Green Point.

And….

While it’s not new, Link & Pin changed hands just before Christmas and the new team are bringing a new energy to the place. Definitely worth a ’21 visit.