AUSTRALIA, FOOD, RESTUARANT

Bello, the buzzy little alternative town has some hidden culinary delights. Bellingen straddles the gorgeous Waterfall Way that forms a link between the serene NSW coast and the ridges of the Great Dividing Range. Located right in the middle of Sydney and Brisbane, it is a popular stop for road-trippers, adventures and those seeking the alternative lifestyle.

Driving through this quaintly unconventional main street lined with restaurants, you may want to know where to eat here. There is a variety of food on offer, right from fine dining restaurants to organic cafes and takeaway pizzas.

Most popular and Award Winning Restaurants in Bellingen to eat at

A visit to Bellingen is not complete without trying some of the most creatively prepared dishes at the top restaurants here. Here is a list of the top popular restaurants in Bellingen that you cannot afford to miss, many of which are not only popular but have won national and international awards too!

Top 10 Restaurants In Bellingen To Try Right Now

You can sit back and enjoy your meal in cozy fireside dining rooms, sun-filled courtyards, street-side café, or one of the pubs in this charming town.

1. Cedar Bar & Kitchen

This stunning restaurant is located right in the heart of Bellingen in a fully renovated 108-year-old church surrounded by a beautiful garden. Cedar Bar & Kitchen is bursting with character, with the original vintage-stained glass windows and high timber ceiling beautifully restored. 

The entire menu is crafted and inspired by local produces and features everything right from enjoyable shared plates to delicious mains. The bar is stocked with local and international craft beers, wines, and spirits. Whether it is a quick drink at the bar with friends, dinner with your family, or hosting a wedding reception, this restaurant can make your dining experience truly special.

2. Bruno's Mediterranean Kitchen

If you are looking for some exciting Mediterranean-inspired fire-based menu, you should head to Bruno's Mediterranean Kitchen. The homely ambience is warm and inviting and is a favourite among many locals and tourists. The restaurant serves a mix of Mediterranean-inspired fire-grilled dishes, tap beer, fine wines, and great seasonal cocktails.


The best thing about this restaurant is that they constantly add exciting new dishes to the menu to broaden the options for its guests!

3. Za'atar Bellingen

Located on the main street, Za'atar Bellingen is the place to be if you are looking for a hearty lunch option while on the road. Serving middle-eastern street food, the portions are quite big and made using the freshest local ingredients. The best dishes include falafel and hummus, eggplant pocket, salad bowl, spiced chicken pot, and others.

With ample parking space out the front, you can get a quick takeaway and sit by the river to enjoy the view. Highly recommended if you are around the Coffs Harbour area.

4. Bellingen Brewery

An old factory in Church Street now converted into a sophisticated boutique bar & restaurant, Bellingen Brewery is a favourite among the locals and tourists alike. The rustic furniture made of local timber and salvaged materials, along with the pendant lights, gives the restaurant a unique touch.

The place hosts DJ sessions, live music, art display, and more. They are home to some of the best craft beers and offer select colleges of cocktails and fine wines. Their wood-fired pizzas are a crowd-pleaser and a must-have when you are in town to wash it all down.

5. The Purple Carrot

This rustic eatery uses only organic and chemical-free produces for its brunch staples. Offering a wide range of Australian dishes, it also has a vegetarian and vegan menu if you prefer. You can try their cooked potato rosti and trout and pumpkin soups, popular among the guests.

They also serve a variety of wines and offer excellent fresh juices, tea, and iced coffee. The live musicians in the evening make this place worth your time!

6. Qudo Café and Sake

Date night coming up? Qudo Café is definitely a crowd-pleaser. It is one of the newest restaurants in the area with a stunning view of the river and the mountains. Locally owned and operated, there is no shortage of la carte options here, including authentic Japanese and modern Australian fusion dishes, such as Katsu burgers, sushi, soups, hand rolls, cheesecakes, pancakes, fluffy croquettes, and more.

There is plenty of seating inside, and the alfresco area overlooking the beautiful view, which is exactly what you need to take the edge off.

7. HYDE Bellingen

Located in a historic Drapers Store, Hyde Bellingen is a cute little café perfect for some quick breakfast or lunch. Owned by a Swiss couple, the food here has authentic Swiss flavours. It is one of the best places to have creamy coffee in Bellingen, and their cheesecake and caramel slice are heavenly. Perfect for a quick coffee break while you are exploring the area!

8. Little Red Kitchen

Little Red Kitchen is not just a restaurant serving delicious Italian dishes, but it also serves some amazing Indian dishes such as Tandoori and Mexican-style pizzas. They also have a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options with nicely balanced ingredients that will surprise your taste buds.

If you are looking for a place with great food and live music, this restaurant will not disappoint.

9. #5 Church Street

This stunning restaurant is located right in the heart of Bellingen in a fully renovated 108-year-old church surrounded by a beautiful garden. Cedar Bar & Kitchen is bursting with character, with the original vintage-stained glass windows and high timber ceiling beautifully restored. 

The entire menu is crafted and inspired by local produces and features everything right from enjoyable shared plates to delicious mains. The bar is stocked with local and international craft beers, wines, and spirits. Whether it is a quick drink at the bar with friends, dinner with your family, or hosting a wedding reception, this restaurant can make your dining experience truly special.

10. Black Bear Café

Located on Church Street, this restaurant is a go-to for breakfast, brunch and lunch. The place is quite popular for its bagels, burgers, Egg Benedict, and some good coffee in a peaceful environment while watching people walking by. They also serve different dietary requirements, so whether you prefer vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, rest assured of finding delicacies that match your preferences.

It is really difficult not to gain a pound or two when visiting Bellingen because the restaurants here compel you to indulge in a luxurious fine-dining experience. Trust us, gaining a couple of pounds is better than missing out on the experience these restaurants offer!



Which was your favourite restaurant in Bellingen that you loved the most?