The best places to eat this Valentine's Day

February 7, 2024

Whether you’re celebrating with friends or your lover, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to dress up, go out and indulge in a night of delicious food and drink. From cosy cafes to classy restaurants, this region offers a diverse range of options to make your Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day or night out with the fam an experience to remember. Here are our top picks.

Tattersalls Hotel, Armidale

For a touch of elegance, Tattersalls Hotel in Armidale is an ideal choice. Boasting a sophisticated atmosphere, great service and delicious food, this hotel has everything you need to curate the perfect night out. Make a booking for Valentine’s Day and receive a complimentary glass of sparkling or draught beer on arrival. Paired with a delectable three-course meal and a Cupid’s Kiss cocktail, Tattersalls will have you falling in love all over again.

Petersons Guest House and Winery, Armidale

Blending luscious vineyards with a backdrop of stunning heritage buildings, Petersons Winery sets the stage for a truly romantic evening. When you reserve your spot at Petersons this Valentine’s Day, you’ll be welcomed with a glass of bubbles and a single-stem rose for your special someone, followed by a delectable two or three-course meal. Keen to extend the magic? Book a stay at Petersons Guesthouse, the number one spot for romantic getaways in Armidale.

Signor Vertelli, Armidale

A favourite among both locals and visitors, Signor Vertelli’s serves up Italian-style woodfired pizza like no-one else. Known for its intimate setting, delicious food, friendly service and tasty wine list, this restaurant is the slice of foodie paradise everyone loves, making it the perfect place for a special night. Be sure to book in early, Signor Vertelli’s fills up quickly.

Shop 5/110 Marsh Street | Armidale NSW 2350 | 0498 603 367 | Website | Instagram

Kinship Kitchen Cafe, Armidale

Kinship Kitchen Cafe might be just what you’re looking for this Valentine’s Day. Serving up a delicious two-course meal and V-Day-inspired cocktail, this cafe offers an ideal location to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

171 Beardy Street | Armidale NSW 2350 | 0404 851 990 | Facebook | Instagram

Rydges, Armidale

Treat yourselves to a luxurious dining experience at Azka Restaurant, located inside Rydges Armidale. Begin your night with a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival, followed by a scrumptious two-course or three-course meal. Taking your dining experience to new heights, Azka promises exquisite flavours and an intimate atmosphere, ensuring your night is one to remember.

Railway Hotel, Armidale

With its historic charm and delicious pub-style cuisine, The Railway Hotel is a standout choice for Valentine’s Day dinner in Armidale. Enjoy a two-course meal in the Glass Room, complete with rose petals, ambient lighting and a photobooth to capture special moments from the night. Don’t forget to try the venue’s special Valentine’s Day-inspired cocktail Cupid’s Potion – we hear it’s really good!

The Mill Bistro, Armidale

Celebrate love and everything that comes with it at The Armidale Ex Services Club this Valentine’s Day. Boasting a special three-course meal, The Ex Services Club’s restaurant, The Mill Bistro, invites you to enjoy delicious food alongside a complimentary beer, wine or soft drink, and a box of chocolates with every order. What’s not to love?

Manny’s On Marsh, Armidale

It’s no secret that Manny’s on Marsh is a fantastic date location – its stunning interior, breezy balcony and delicious food all work together to create an intimate and inviting atmosphere. This Valentine’s Day, Manny’s has pulled out the stops, creating an exclusive set menu and yummy Valentine’s-themed cocktails for lovers just like you.

DECO Restaurant and Wine Bar, Tamworth

The in-house restaurant of the CH Boutique Hotel, DECO Restaurant and Wine Bar invites you to enjoy a romantic meal in a beautifully refurbished heritage building. Considered one of the best restaurants in Tamworth, DECO boasts a delightful alfresco dining area and timber-panelled bar. Enjoy a romantic evening made that much more special with a complimentary rose and box of chocolates, followed by a to-die-for three-course meal.

330 Peel Street | Tamworth NSW 2340 | (02) 5712 9700 | Website | Facebook

The Glasshouse, Tamworth

Known for being one of the most romantic destinations in Tamworth, The Glasshouse Restaurant at Goonoo Goonoo Station is an award-winning restaurant, ranked on Open Table as one of the top 50 restaurants in Australia. From stunning architecture to a sophisticated atmosphere and food so good you’re likely to become a repeat customer, Glasshouse Restaurant is the perfect place to spoil your amor this Valentine’s Day.

The Workshop Kitchen, Tamworth

Celebrate this Valentine’s Day at The Workshop Kitchen, located inside the Powerhouse Hotel Tamworth by Rydges (Tamworth’s only 5-star hotel). A multiple award-winning restaurant, The Workshop Kitchen sets the scene for a romantic night out. Boasting an impressive wine list, a curated menu bursting with delicious food and a sophisticated ambience to match, this restaurant is easily one of the best in Tamworth. Deserving of your consideration this Valentine’s Day, The Workshop Kitchen invites you to enjoy a four-course meal with your love. Add in beautifully handmade rosewater macaroons and a Valentine’s Day card for you to personalise on the night and you’ve got yourself a dreamy night out. Feeling extra fancy? For an extra price, you can take delight in two glasses of French champagne on arrival and four freshly shucked oysters – YUM.

The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth

Merging modern Australian cuisine with European and Asian influence, The Pig & Tinder Box provides guests with a delightful dining experience in the centre of Tamworth. Boasting an array of share plates designed for intimate moments with friends and family, The Pig & Tinder Box just might be the perfect place to spend a relaxed Valentine’s evening.

The Alternate Root, Uralla

All fairy lights, timber, brick and stunning high ceilings, The Alternate Root is an ideal location to spoil your special someone. One of the few places offering live music on Valentine’s Day, the venue will host local band Bitz of Buzz, who are all set to bring ‘The Root’ to life with their unique blend of jazz and blues music. Celebrate the day of amore at the Alternate Root in Uralla, surrounded by yummy food, great drinks and lively tunes (and of course, your love).

48 Bridge Street | Uralla NSW 2358 | (02) 6778 3185 | Facebook | Instagram

The Red Lion Tavern, Glencoe

The Red Lion Tavern in Glencoe is described as the place where Celtic meets country – this couldn’t be more true. Located halfway between Brisbane and Sydney, this tavern is a popular destination for both locals and those exploring the sights of the New England High Country. The Red Lion Tavern prides itself on providing its patrons with a Celtic experience, from its aesthetics right down to its whisky and gin collections. This Valentine’s Day, you can enjoy an intimate dining experience at The Red Lion, complete with live music, complimentary bubbles and a three-course meal.

8025 New England Highway | Glencoe NSW 2365 | 0409 776 906 | Facebook | Instagram

Henry’s on Rouse, Tenterfield

Enter a romantic evening at Henry’s on Rouse, the in-house restaurant of The Henry Parkes Motel. Enjoy a three-course grazing platter curated by head chef Joey Abbude, inclusive of a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival. Relax, unwind, and bask in the joy of each other’s company at Henry’s on Rouse this Valentine’s Day.

The Tourist Hotel, Narrabri

Treat yourself and your loved one to a set menu at The Tourist Hotel this Valentine’s Day. Situated in the heart of Narrabri, The Tourist Hotel is an art-deco-inspired destination you need to experience for yourself. Here, 1930s glamour meets modern luxury, creating a romantic atmosphere not unlike what you’d find in the city. Still working on a scrumptious menu for you to enjoy, the hotel will release more details on their social media pages soon.

The Royal Hotel, Moree

Are you ready to experience The Royal Hotel in Moree at its finest? Offering an exclusive Valentine’s Day menu to those who make a booking, this classic regional venue will treat you and your loved one to a complimentary glass of wine, bubbles or beer on arrival. Conveniently located in the heart of Moree, The Royal Hotel offers a prime spot for a romantic dinner for two.

Meg Miller

Digital Marketing Manager. Adventure seeking writer, free spirit, smitten aunt and dog mum.

Tags: Armidale, Drink, Eat, Events, Glencoe, Love, Play, Restaurants, Stay, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Uralla, Valentine's Day, Where to eat

A guide to Valentine’s Day in the New England North West