In the ever-evolving landscape of Newcastle's hospitality scene, the closure of some beloved venues often makes way for exciting new ventures. While 2025 saw the departure of spots like Bar Mellow, Roxanne, and Closed, it also welcomed a charming new addition: Cara Bistro & Wine Bar.
This intimate venue, the passion project of chef Max Crawford and his partner Jess Newby, quietly opened its doors in September 2025. Tucked away in a discreet corner of The Junction Village, it's the kind of place you might miss if you blink. For those who find it, however, it offers a warm and familiar retreat.
A Neighbourhood Nook with Heart
Max Crawford describes Cara as a "neighbourhood bistro," a space designed for connection. It's where locals can meet, couples can enjoy a quiet moment, and visitors can get authentic advice on the area. The venue, which seats 55, is decorated in pastel pink and green with accents of yellow, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
Crawford works from an open galley kitchen behind the bar, allowing diners to chat with him as he prepares dishes. This setup fosters a sense of community and transparency. The name itself, Cara, reflects this ethos, meaning "friend" in Gaelic and conveying closeness in Italian.
Seasonal Flavours and Storytelling Plates
Chef Crawford's culinary journey, which began in his mid-20s inspired by London's diverse food scene, has taken him from Toronto's Giulietta to London's Petersham Nurseries and Tasmania's Havilah Wines. His menu at Cara is a personal reflection of his travels.
He brings together the simplicity of central and eastern Mediterranean cuisine, the rustic charm of Sicilian cooking, and the quirkiness of classic British dishes. The offering is designed for sharing and savouring, with dishes delivered separately to the table, often by Crawford himself when he's free.
The food is honest, seasonal, and full of flavour. During a visit, standout dishes included sourdough focaccia with burnt leek butter, a vibrant giardiniera (pickled Italian vegetables), and a memorable mozzarella, anchovy and lemon spiedini. A swimmer crab, saffron and Njuda risotto was declared a reason to return. The experience was rounded out with parmesan and garlic cream choux buns and ocean trout tartare.
For those who can't decide, a "chef's selection" menu is available for $70 per person.
A Curated List of Wines with Stories
The beverage program is a collaboration between Crawford and general manager Kirsty Dale, a cicerone. The wine list focuses on "smashable" domestic wines, primarily from small, minimal-intervention producers, with a fondness for Hunter Valley labels.
It also features international crowd-pleasers like Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, Provence Rosé, Etna Bianco, and Argentinian Malbec. Dale, who recently worked at a gastro-bistro in Paris's 12th Arrondissement, ensures every wine has a story, much like the food. A small selection of cocktails, beer, cider, and non-alcoholic drinks is also available.
Crawford has plans to host wine dinners in the future, including a potential collaboration with an award-winning Hunter Valley winery.
Cara Bistro & Wine Bar is located at 10-16 Kenrick Street, The Junction. It represents the dream of its creators realised: a friendly, familiar spot for quality food, excellent wine, and genuine connection in the heart of Newcastle.
