The Italian Cottage

The Italian Cottage is an Italian restaurant in the Hunter Valley, cooking traditional dishes such as antipasto platters, gourmet pasta and risotto. The wine list runs to Italian labels alongside local Hunter Valley reds and whites, with cocktails and beers as well. The room leans cosy and homely, closer to a traditional Italian home with checked tablecloths than a formal dining room. It is a standalone restaurant rather than a winery's dining room.

It opens for dinner from 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, so it fills the evening slot after a day of tastings rather than a long lunch. Several function spaces are available, which makes it a workable option for a group, a small event or a celebration. Hours and days can change at a smaller venue like this, so confirm and book before you go.