Gladstone is coined the ‘cultural heart of the Macleay’ and with that comes some great cafes, a heritage pub and some amazing variety at the local markets on the third Sunday of every month.
Steam & Cedar
Old Bank Gladstone
This gorgeous café exudes a community vibe and produces next-level coffee and home-made food, created with love and lots of local produce.
Follow them – @steamandcedar
The Old Bank is set in a perfectly restored historical bank overlooking the river. Book early, the food is so good it’s hard to get a seat!
Like them – Old Bank Gladstone
Old Lodge Gallery, By the River
The Heritage HOtel
Housed at the back of the Old Lodge Gallery, By the River looks out onto the majestic Macleay River and serves delicious lunches and amazing cakes.
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For a hearty pub meal, try the Heritage Hotel, a splendidly restored historic pub with plenty of character. The hotel is also a great place to linger over a drink or catch a band on a Sunday afternoon. And the best thing…its dog friendly!
Follow them – @theheritagehotelgladstone
Frederickton
The Garden Bar & Kitchen
Fredos Pies & Cafe
Take a five-minute drive from Gladstone to The Garden Bar & Kitchen in the little town of Frederickton. Book early for seats outside to enjoy sunset drinks on the deck overlooking the river while you dine in style. If you’re lucky, you might catch an acoustic band serenading diners on the deck.
Follow them – @thegardenbarandkitchen
Fredos Pies in Frederickton has become a local and international attraction with locals and visitors coming in their droves to try the famous croc pie.
Then you can pop next door to pick up your local fresh produce at the Macleay Valley Farm Store.
Follow them – @fredo_pies
Macleay River Hotel
The Macleay River Hotel, known to the locals as ‘Fredo Pub’, offers some of the best value meals on the North Coast of NSW. The perfect atmosphere to enjoy a meal or cold beverage when catching up with family and friends.
The ‘Fredo Experience’ is not one to be missed.
Like them – Macleay River Hotel
Hat Head
Hat HEad Bowling Club
Holidaying in picturesque Hat Head? Don’t cook tonight and go and join the friendly crew at the local bowling club. Beers always cold, delicious food, friendly people and great atmosphere!
Follow them – @hatheadbowlingclub
Smithtown
Smithtown Riverview Hotel
Nestled in the sleepy little town of Smithtown, this pub is the perfect place to stop off for lunch or drop in for dinner. Guaranteed there will always be happy faces, cold drinks, delicious food & great vibes waiting for you here.
Like them – Riverview Hotel Smithtown