A town that greets you with a smile that says you’re in the right place.
Robertson, recently crowned the People’s Choice winner in the NSW Top Tourism Awards [yes, we’re still chuffed], is a beautiful mix of country hospitality and big-hearted flavour.
So, let’s take a delicious little wander through the streets of this small town with a seriously tasty reputation.
Southern Rise Bakery
First stop: the tradies’ secret [that’s not really a secret].
If you see a line of hi-vis and muddy boots snaking out the front door, you’ve found Southern Rise Bakery. It’s where locals refuel on pies, sausage rolls, some good-looking sweet things like neenish tarts, cream buns and custard tarts.
Fold tip: Grab a beef and potato pie. The potato is creamy, with the perfect crust on top, and the filling is generous and rich.
Café 31
Across the road is Café 31 and it might just be the most welcoming café in Robertson.
Owner, Nadine is the heart and hands behind it all. The food is freshly made and the coffee is even roasted on site [yes, really!]. If you smell a delicious scent wafting through the air on Hoddle Street, you know Nadine is busy at work.
Friday mornings welcome the ‘Friday Crew’. A group of ever-growing regulars hold court at the communal table. Newcomers and visitors are inducted with a coffee and lots of welcoming smiles.
CTC Robertson
This beautiful not-for-profit offers so much more than just home-baked cakes, slices and muffins. The CTC [Community Technology Creativity] is run by volunteers, providing the community with workshops, tech help, and is even a space for local artists to showcase their works.
If you want a true Robertson experience that gives back, definitely stop by!
Elwrays
The big yellow bus that’s permanently parked on Hoddle Street is famous for its burgers and fries [using local spuds of course]. They also serve up some mouth-watering specials. A recent special that caught our eye was their Birria [Jalisco style soup with grass-fed beef served with beef & Oaxaca cheese taco]. We’re not drooling, you’re drooling!
Windows are open bright and early Monday to Friday from 5am serving up hot coffee and brekkie burgers, [not your average brekkie burgers obvs, these are waaayyy more delicious than your B&E].
Elwrays is the kind of place that surprises you in the best way! The food is delicious, and a little rebellious [in a wholesome, ‘we don’t use seed oils’ and ‘we make our own hot sauce’ kinda way].
Keep an eye on their specials board. You’ll want what everyone else is having!
The Robertson Public House
A pub that’s refined but also has that old-school country pub hospitality. It’s super cosy in winter with its roaring woodfire, and in summer it has a spacious courtyard and verandah where you can enjoy some grub and a cold one.
You’ll likely spot Holly behind the bar pouring beers with a smile and running the show behind the scenes. But she’s also the mastermind behind the pub’s awesome events calendar. Pig Races, Paint & Sip nights, Disco Bingo, and a HOT line-up of live music keep this gorgeous little pub lively all year round.
We adore this pub, now and forevermore.
Pecora Cheese and Wine
Fancy, but not in a ‘don’t touch anything’ way. Pecora is super welcoming and serves up award-winning sheep’s milk cheeses and beautiful wines in a stunningly styled space that feels like you’re in the big smoke somewhere.
Bring your foodie friends and prepare to swoon.
The Buzz Café
Run by Tim [who might just be the friendliest human in the Highlands], The Buzz Cafe is small, cosy, and packed with heart.
It overlooks the town’s famous Big Potato [which is currently a gorgeous pink pig], and it’s the perfect spot for a quiet cuppa, hearty pie, bowl of soup or a slice of homemade cake by the fireplace. There’s even a kids’ nook, so you can actually finish a coffee. Revolutionary!
Lucinda’s Pantry
If Lucinda’s reminds you of your nan’s kitchen… it should. Lucinda’s Pantry is where Robertson locals have been grabbing nourishing home-style meals and take-home dishes since 1993. It’s a no frills, no fuss, just proper food made with love!
The meals are cooked fresh onsite using local produce, and the menu changes with the seasons. You can expect yummies like an Atlantic Salmon Pie and Lime Drizzle Cake!
Lucinda’s love language is clearly good food and a warm welcome. The café is an oldie, but a goodie!
The Tasty Stash
New in town and located inside the old Cheese Factory, The Tasty Stash is part boutique confectionery, part gift shop, part sugar-fuelled dream!!
You can expect lotsa chocolate, lollies and biccies. You’ll likely “pop in for a look”… but leave with a tasty stash. Be warned.
Robertson Donut Van
It’s a glorious combo, native plants, garden inspo, and the most golden, crispy, fluffy-on-the-inside hot donuts you’ll ever try. Head to Native Grace Nursery on the weekend and follow your nose to the Robertson Donut Van.
Grab a dozen [you’ll be glad you did]. Sit in the sun. Pretend you’re only going to have one.
The Robertson Hotel
When the occasion calls for something special, the Robertson Hotel should be at the top of your list. It’s grand, historic, and a Highlands classic.
Afternoon teas are a ritual here. China teapots, tiered stands filled with handmade sweets and savouries. The High Tea is a must when in town, just be sure to book ahead, it’s no local secret.
The Hotel also hosts some pretty fabulous Murder Mystery Dinners. It’s the perfect venue, right?! And if you’re visiting in July.. they put on a great Chrissy in July lunch and dinner. It’s become a much-loved highlight on the local calendar, drawing both visitors and Highlands regulars back year after year.
Robertson Bowling Club
There’s something beautifully unpretentious about the Robbo Bowlo. It’s where locals roll up for a barefoot bowl, a cold beer, and a proper catch-up. And the kind where you’re five minutes in and already deep in conversation with someone’s uncle [true story].
Good honest grub and a welcoming team, it’s a great spot for a weekend bowl and a cold beer.
So, are you hungry yet?
Robertson might be small, but when it comes to hospitality, it punches well above its postcode.
Come hungry and leave happy.
Oh, and don’t be surprised if you’re planning your next visit before you even hit the highway back home.
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