A food lover’s tour of Kiama
If the lush green hills and farm gates didn’t already tell you, the Kiama region is a bountiful basket of locally harvested culinary delights. And while so many city establishments will promote their menus as ‘paddock to plate’, in these parts it’s a natural way of life – in fact, you can often see the paddocks from your plate!
For a full picture of what’s on offer during your next visit (including contact details and bonus venues), check out the Kiama Dining Guide. Here are some highlights:
Image: Bouquiniste Kiama
Coffee and Sweets
The sunrises are sublime here on the coast and in Kiama you’ll have no trouble rising, shining and staving off your coffee cravings, with a stack of quality cafes to choose from. These include the rustic Quarry Cafe at Burnetts on Barney – a coffee shop and garden centre all in one, offering a delicious caffeine fix and a menu with delicious gluten and dairy free offerings to get your day off to the best start. ‘Downtown’ in Kiama, enjoy a cup inside or out under cover at the anagram-inspired Amaki, in the historic Terrace Houses on Collins Street. Alternatively, pick up something to read with your piccolo at the pocket-sized Bouquiniste bookstore and café or a delicious sweet treat from Parfait Patisserie.
Image: Kiama Farmers Market
Locally Sourced Produce
Fresh dairy products, fruit, vegetables, meats and seafood are grown, caught or cultivated in the hills, valleys and waters that surround Kiama. And luckily, there are plenty of providores who delight in bringing you a taste of these local ingredients. Silica, near Kiama’s Surf Beach is a big believer in the ‘home grown’ ethos, with its own local plot that nourishes many of its unique dishes. Meanwhile, Penny Whistlers and Diggies – both on opposite sides of Black Beach – each offer modern Aussie dining options that fuse local flavours. Daily Grind Coffee Roasters is open to sample freshly roasted, seasonal, single origins and some awesome cafe blends. You can even view the magic of roasting from the upstairs cafe. More into DIY dining? Butcher’s Nook in Kiama serves up fresh cuts, while on Wednesdays you can head to the Kiama Farmers’ Markets to fill up on breads, cheeses, fruits and so many more picnic or pantry staples from the region’s friendly local growers!
Image: Wildginger Kiama
Fine Dining
For a special occasion, the award-winning The Blue Swimmer – overlooking the water in Gerroa – is a great choice for quality seafood and other delicious fare. Alternatively, the Asian fusion banquet options on offer at Wild Ginger (opposite the Terrace Houses, Kiama) is an exciting new arrival on the scene – building off its successful Jervis Bay establishment – or take a seat and be pampered at Bella Char Restaurant at the Mercure, Gerringong. If you’re in the mood for share plates and delicious cocktails, Miss Arda serves a unique dining experience with a Middle Eastern twist. Looking for Asian dining in a cosy setting? Both Hanoi on Manning and Thai @ Kiama offer tasty dining in tasteful surroundings. Or maybe you’d like a dinner catered? Culinarius Catering and Smith St Foods Catering can bring it all to you – everything from big parties to intimate gatherings.
Image: Hungry Monkey Kiama
Dining with a Group
Want a fun dining experience for a group with wildly varying tastes? You’ll find the menu and vibe to suit at Zia’s Caffe, Olive & Vine (both on Manning Street, Kiama), each offering crowd-pleasing and family-friendly pizza and pasta in generous surroundings. If you want a relaxed, coastal vibe, Hill Bar & Kitchen (in Gerringong) is the spot for you – enjoy a modern Australian favourites overlooking the beautiful Werri Beach. The Hungry Monkey is a popular eating spot in the Terrace Houses – with all-day favourites, gourmet burgers and vegan-friendly dishes to suit everyone, plus regular live musicians. Another great spot to enjoy live music and plenty of space inside and out is the iconic Jamberoo Pub – the natural meeting place of this idyllic country town. Alternatively, you simply can’t go wrong with the world flavours of El Corazon Mexican or JJ’s Indian at each end of Kiama’s Terralong Street.
Image: Crooked River Wines
Go Direct
Sometimes, nothing beats actually going directly to the source. Sample locally brewed beers at the trendy Stoic Breweryor sip on local wines while overlooking the vines and rolling green hills at Gerringong’s Crooked River Winery. Want a more hands-on experience? Buena Vista Farm provides a unique wholefood destination, offering tours and workshops in the kind of lush, verdant environment that perfectly sums up this abundant, feast-friendly region.
Bon appetit!
Destination Kiama
