A locals guide to the best dining, shopping and sightseeing spots in Berry NSW.
A positive to come from the international travel ban is that Aussies are starting to unveil the beauty that is right in our backyards. From exploring wine regions such as Canberra, Gundagai and Hunter Valley, to switching off at luxury eco huts out West, it’s becoming obvious that everything we want in a getaway is right at our fingertips across NSW. One of our favourite places to escape the hustle and bustle is Berry. Situated in the South-Eastern coastal region of NSW, the town is home to an abundance of delicious restaurants, luxury retail shops, beautiful hikes and all the friendly coastal town feels. Berry being my home town, I thought it was time I gave you a round-up of the absolute must-visits on your next trip down there.
South on Albany
Think of South On Albany as your home away from home. The restaurant is super welcoming with country charm from wooden furniture, white walls, handmade pottery plates and tealight candles on the tables. Chef John Evans is at the helm of the kitchen working with the local suppliers to bring unique ingredients to the table each week. The locals rave about Johnny’s famous Terrine, the Fish Of The Day and his wobbly Milk & Pointer Mountain Honey Panna Cotta with local strawberries. If you’ve only got one night to visit a restaurant in Berry, we’d go to South On Albany every time. Find out more here
Queen Street Eatery
If you’re after a more boujee experience for date night, we’d go to Queen Street Eatery. The menu draws inspiration from classic French bistro cuisine but the chefs give it a unique South Coast twist with local produce. On the menu, you’ll find dishes like Tuna Tartare, Chicken & Pistachio Terrine, Steak Frites and Strawberry Shortcake. To match, choose from an intriguing selection of contemporary Australian wines as well as beautiful French varietals. The interiors are stunning with marble tabletops, wooden bentwood chairs, brass pepper grinders and a cozy bar with high chairs so you can perch up near the bartender and ask for something unique. Find out more here
Bangalay Dining
This next recommendation is not located within Berry, but it’s absolutely worth the mention. Just a short 10-minute drive from Berry town, the venue is part luxury accommodation and part dining destination. The dinner menu is inspired by its natural coastal surroundings with a heavy focus on local and native ingredients. Locals’ highlights are the South Coast Oysters with a Fingerline Mignonette dressing, Kangaroo rolled in Wattleseed, Snapper Crudo with Honeydew Melon and the South Coast Lobster with Lobster Custard and Fingerlime. The entire venue is situated on a coastal national park which means no matter where you are, greenery views and the smell of the ocean are never too far away. Find out more here
IV Coffee
If you need a hit of caffeine after you’ve been roaming the streets shopping, head to IV located right in the centre of town. This specialty coffee shop is pouring ONA, the Canberra-made coffee brand and you can guarantee to get high quality and delicious coffee every time. Everyone is welcome to perch up, including four-legged friends which are often seen drinking puppaccinos. Find out more here
Berry Donut Van
There’s a reason you never see an empty line at the Donut Van when you pass Berry on the weekend. Although the coffee isn’t great, we must admit these are some of the best cinnamon donuts we’ve ever tasted. Having been a fixture in Berry for over 50 years, it’s rude to stop in and not brave the line for a bag of fresh donuts.
Milkwood Bakery
Milkwood Bakery was established in 2012 and has since been locals’ favourite place for all things French patisserie. The full range of Berry Organic Sourdough loaves are available every day and an ever-evolving array of cakes, pastries and other savouries. One thing we can’t recommend more is the pies coming in gourmet flavours such as Chicken and Leak and Beef Bourguignon. They also pour Single O coffee and a really good hot chocolate. Find out more here
Amara Home
You’ve probably spotted Amara Home before within a beautiful ivy-covered building. Step inside and you’ll find the ultimate destination for luxury interiors, fashion and fragrances. The store is a collective of carefully curated pieces from all over the world. Owner Natasha Dakis has an eye for emerging luxury fashion brands, and interiors from all over the globe including Africa, India, Morocco, Turkey and France. You can also find incredible Australian fashion labels such as Bassike, Matteau, Camilla & Marc, Holly Ryan, Nobody Denim and more. Can’t get there right now but want to shop online? Click here
Cabana Jo’s
Another great retail shop for interiors and homewares is Cabana Jo’s. Jo curates the collection herself and you’ll always find something to take home. From beautiful bed linen, quirky artworks, handmade pottery, cashmere jumpers and jewelry, it’s one of those places you could be immersed in for hours.
Two Figs Winery
Located on Black Forest Road, just a short 10-minute drive from Berry, Two Figs Winery has to be one of our favourites in the South Coast wine region. Named after the beautiful Moreton Bay Fig trees found in the property’s driveway and overlooking the Shoalhaven River, the winery gives you a true taste of nature. The team produces award-winning wines which can be enjoyed through a tasting experience or pair it with a cheeseboard and find a seat on the picnic tables around the winery. Find out more here
Drawing Rooms Rocks
Once you’ve eaten your weight in croissants and pies, we suggest walking it off while you take in picturesque views of Barren Grounds Nature Reserve. Drawing Room Rocks is a quick but challenging hike ascending to 600m above sea level. It’s about a 1.5-hour return, but you’ll want to perch up for a while with a delicious spread of cheese to take in the views. The locals call it ‘tables and chairs’ because you’ll notice all the rocks up the top are the perfect shape to sit on. You’ll find beautiful views of Kangaroo Valley and the surrounding bushland, as well as counting the beaches all the way to Jervis Bay. Find out how to get there here
Southern Highlights more your style? Check out our guide here
