In Orange, it’s not just the wine that’s worth tasting—this charming region is home to cosy artisan cafes, boutique breweries and distilleries, world-class restaurants and bustling farmers’ markets, perfect for a romantic gourmet getaway.
For those who appreciate exceptional food and fine wine, the Orange region in Central New South Wales is quickly becoming a must-visit destination. Just a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney and Canberra, this area is teeming with new openings and hidden gems.
To help plan your visit, the Epic Tastings Tour of Orange has been put together by the Central NSW Joint Organisation, offering a guide to the best places to eat, drink, and enjoy the region’s rich produce.
By Night: Dining and Drinks with a View
As the sun sets over the hills, Orange’s food and drink scene truly comes to life. At Rowlee Wines, the newly opened Rowlee Dining & Bar invites guests to enjoy a meal at the foot of Mount Canobolas, surrounded by vines. The restaurant combines the best of local produce with Rowlee’s award-winning wines for an unforgettable dining experience.
For something a little different, head to Lucetta, a welcoming new Italian spot serving up antipasto and hand-made pasta. Or make your way to Fiorini’s, the sibling restaurant of Sydney’s Paddington favourite, where locally sourced wines are perfectly matched with an Italian-inspired menu. For those who enjoy a spirited evening, Parrot Distilling Co. offers a unique gin tasting experience at its new cellar door. Located in the Aviary room, the tastings are complemented by delicious wood-fired pizzas, making it a great place to unwind with friends.
Beer fans will want to stop by the new Badlands Brewery Taproom, where tastings are paired with tasty Asian bites. And the local wine bar scene is thriving, with Hey Rosey and Birdie leading the charge. They join established favourites like Ferment The Orange Wine Centre and The Union Bank, offering a great variety of local wines.
By Day: Exploring Orange’s Best New Spots
Orange isn’t just about great food and wine—it’s also a place to explore. For something a little different, check out Dirty Janes, a recently opened vintage and antiques market where you can browse quirky treasures and indulge in freshly baked scones and homemade treats at Salters Café. If you’re after a truly local experience, the Saffron Trail with Country Food Trails offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world’s most expensive spice. You’ll meet the farmers, taste saffron tea, and sample lamingtons as you learn how saffron is grown in the region.
For a special lunch, Printhie Dining is a standout. Recently awarded a Chef Hat in the Australian Good Food Guide for 2024, it’s the perfect place for a long, leisurely meal celebrating the best local produce. Wine lovers can explore new cellar doors like Byrne Farm, Cha Lou Wines, and Macquariedale, or check out Ross Hill Wines, which was named Cellar Door of the Year at the 2024 Orange Wine Show.
A visit to Hillside Harvest is a must for those wanting to taste local produce. Picnic beneath the trees and enjoy fresh fruit straight from the farm, or sample other seasonal delights. If you’re more of a café person, places like Anything Grows, Groundstone, and Factory Espresso are among the best for a relaxed breakfast or lunch. And for something new, Byng Street Local Store is now offering dinner during their Byng Street Nights series.
For a bit of adventure, head to Canowindra for a sunrise hot-air balloon ride. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the countryside before enjoying a champagne breakfast to round off the experience.
Beyond Orange: Bathurst and Oberon
If you have a little more time, take a day trip to nearby Bathurst or Oberon, both of which are becoming known for their own food and wine scenes. In Bathurst, the Sip and Savour Tour is a fantastic way to experience the region’s offerings, with stops at Renzaglia Wines, the historic Bathurst Grange Distillery, and Reckless Brewing in the heritage Crago Mill complex. For something more hands-on, Oberon’s Essington Estate offers cooking classes.
Whether you’re enjoying a glass of wine at one of the many wineries or wine bars, exploring local distilleries, or soaking in breathtaking views from a hot-air balloon, Orange offers couples the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences for a weekend away or romantic getaway.
