A Weekenders Guide To Orange: Where to Eat, Drink, Play & Stay
Wine, fire-lit feasts, and cool-climate charm, this is your perfect escape to Orange.
Just over three hours from Sydney, this Central Tablelands town has quietly become one of Australia's most compelling food and wine destinations. Rolling vineyards, standout dining and a strong connection to local producers define the region year-round, but during FOOD Week, it all comes into sharper focus. Think long lunches, vineyard events and a calendar built entirely around eating and drinking well. Whether you're planning a weekend around the festival or using it as a starting point, here's where to eat, sip, stay and switch off while you're there.
Union Bank - The Schoolhouse Restaurant
Just off the main street, Union Bank is a go-to for any occasion, but it's The Schoolhouse Restaurant that truly shines. Awarded a Chef's Hat, this refined dining space serves up elevated shared plates designed to bring people together. Expect thoughtful, produce-driven dishes best enjoyed over a long lunch or relaxed dinner, while the courtyard…
Set within a picturesque vineyard estate, Rowlee Wines Dining Room is made for lingering. This is dining at its most relaxed—shared plates arriving just when you need them, conversation flowing and glasses topped with their single vineyard wines. As the sun dips behind the vines, settle in for a slow, memorable evening that captures the…
For something warm and nostalgic, Fiorini's delivers old-school Italian charm in spades. Run by Kelly Fedeli, this open kitchen restaurant invites you to watch handmade pasta come to life. It's the kind of place where long lunches feel like family gatherings—simple, generous and full of heart.
Another excellent daytime dining choice is Groundstone which has a more contemporary feel for the location. As with all Orange venues, the main aim is to support as many local producers and farmers as possible across the menu. Sweet favourites include the granola and waffles which are all made from scratch in-house, while savoury favourites…
Racine is your go-to for bakery goods and a quality brew. Tucked away on a side street, the place runs like a well-oiled machine with everything baked on-site daily using the best quality ingredients. You'll be able to stock up and refuel on the essentials including organic sourdough, buttery croissants, cakes, and biscuits as well…
Swinging Bridge
The family-owned winery is known for producing high-quality cool climate wines with a reputation for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. With a beautiful view of Mount Canobolas from the vineyard and cellar door, it's the ideal location for a tasting experience. The 'Savour with Swinging Bridge' experience allows you to taste a selection of their…
For more than two decades, De Salis Wines has passionately crafted exceptional wines, embracing a modern approach with minimal intervention. Nestled 100 meters above sea level, their vineyard benefits from the ideal conditions for producing exquisite sparkling wines. This means trying their Blanc de Blanc, Lofty Cuvée, and sparkling rosé are a must! While sipping…
Parrot Distilling Co
Opened in 2018, this distillery swiftly established itself as a must-visit drinking destination in Orange. Step into The Aviary, their charming cellar door located in a beautifully converted brick warehouse, which invites you to taste their exquisite range of craft gin, rum, and whisky. They shake a selection of cocktails infused with their premium spirits…
Pinnacle Lookout is a stunning walk that showcases the natural beauty of the region. You'll be rewarded for your efforts with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside including lush vineyards and rolling hills. The walk takes about 45 minutes return with a combination of well-maintained paths and gentle inclines, making it accessible for all fitness…
For those seeking a more extensive adventure, the Federal Falls bushwalk awaits. This 4km loop track commences and concludes at the idyllic Federal Falls campground, guiding you through enchanting snow gum forests and towering rock formations as you descend towards the stunning Federal Falls. If you visit after rainfall, be prepared for a picturesque sight…
Orange is also home to a bunch of boutique fashion and homeware stores with one of our favourites being The White Place. Step into the stylish boutique which as the name suggests, showcases all things in a neutral palate. Find a curated selection of trending fashion, homewares, and lifestyle products with brands like McMullin &…
Experience the ultimate blend of retail therapy and culinary delights at The Sonic. Located within a charmingly repurposed hall, this destination offers a delightful assortment of homewares, artworks from emerging artists, and fashionable women's clothing. Take a moment to recharge at the in-store cafe, where you can enjoy expertly brewed coffee and seasonal plates like…
Yallungah Boutique Hotel
For a stay that blends heritage elegance with contemporary design, Yallungah Boutique Hotel is a standout. Set within a beautifully restored 1896 homestead, this refined retreat features 22 thoughtfully designed rooms, layered with local art and considered details. It's the kind of place you'll look forward to returning to after a day of wine tasting—equal…
Nestled within a cherry orchard, just a stone's throw from Orange's city center, Basalt offers an unparalleled retreat for those seeking pure relaxation. Set in a breathtaking rural estate, this new accommodation redefines luxury with its three meticulously designed studios. Featuring deep concrete bathrooms that swallow you whole, premium linen and beauty products, and a…