Valentine's & Galentine's Dining Guide: Newcastle's Top February Feasts

As February approaches, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley are preparing to celebrate love and friendship with an array of special dining experiences. Whether you're planning a romantic Valentine's Day dinner or a fun Galentine's Day gathering with friends, local venues have crafted menus designed to create memorable moments.

Romantic Dinners for Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day falling on Saturday, February 14, 2026, numerous establishments are offering exclusive menus. Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort at Pokolbin presents Oak & Vine, a sophisticated four-course set menu featuring seasonal delights like fish crudo with kiri hodi dressing and crispy pork belly with sweet and sour moju. Priced at $135 per person, the experience includes a welcome drink of local sparkling wine or beer.

In Newcastle's CBD, Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle hosts An Aphrodisiac Affair, a culinary journey starting at $129 per person. The menu showcases Sydney Rock Oysters with champagne mignonette, saffron risotto with lobster, and decadent desserts like fig leaf panna cotta.

For a more casual yet romantic evening, Thomas Wines in Pokolbin offers Cinema Under the Stars, featuring the classic film Notting Hill. Guests can bring picnic blankets, enjoy Thomas Wines, and watch the sunset over the Brokenback Ranges. Tickets are $25 per person, with optional oyster and antipasto platters available.

Galentine's Day Celebrations

Galentine's Day, celebrated on February 13, provides an opportunity for friends to gather. Bonvilla Estate hosts a three-hour long lunch at Noah's at the Beach, featuring shared entrees, bottomless pasta mains, and a tiramisu cart. Early bird tickets are $110, with regular tickets at $125.

TINTA Belmont offers a three-course menu for both Galentine's Day and Valentine's Day, including a glass of Champagne Taittinger on arrival for $99 per person. Other venues like Âpé and Nagisa are also hosting special banquets for the occasion.

Additional Dining Options

Several other Newcastle venues have curated special menus for the romantic season:

Alfie's New Lambton and Signal Box: Two- or three-course set dinners priced at $90 or $110.
Bartholomew's: An intimate three-course shared dinner for two at $149 per couple, including house wine or beer.
Thomas Wines: As mentioned, their cinema event offers a unique blend of wine, food, and film.

With so many choices available, it's advisable to book early to secure your preferred venue and avoid disappointment.

Culinary News and Updates

Beyond Valentine's Day, the local food scene is buzzing with activity. Mitch Beswick, head chef at Pokolbin's Muse Restaurant for 11 years, is moving on. Owner Troy Rhoades-Brown has promoted sous chef Tiffany to head chef, bringing in an Italian sous chef with Michelin-star experience.

The Hunter Culinary Association celebrates its 20th anniversary with a Founders Lunch on March 24, honoring chefs Robert Molines, Andy Wright, Nick Vivian, Jamie Hartcher, and Brad Teale. This year's Food Fight event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, at Rydges Resort Hunter Valley.

Quick Bites and Openings

Several other developments are shaping Newcastle's culinary landscape:

Skip's Deli at Lambton has closed, while Arno Deli is opening at Adamstown.
Mad Poet celebrates its second birthday on February 6 and 7 with food specials and vinyl DJs.
Busan Chicken Hub now sells frozen fried chicken at S Mart stores in Cardiff, Wallsend, and Maitland.
3 Sicilians Ristorante at Stockton has launched a $15 lunch menu.
The Crown and Anchor Hotel offers $2 tacos on Tuesdays.
Yo-Chi has introduced a limited edition Peachy Yoghurt flavour.
Mountain Culture Beer Co made history by winning the GABS Hottest 100 Aussie Craft Beers poll for four consecutive years with its Status Quo Pale Ale.

Healthy Eating Tips

For those focusing on nutrition, the Heart Foundation has launched an online tool to help parents create heart-healthy school lunchboxes. Key recommendations include: