Finally, the dreary days and icy nights of Winter are behind us. It’s time to put on pants and crawl out from hibernation. We get it, the thought of re-joining the summer social scene is daunting but, the unique restaurants and bars bursting onto Newcastle’s food scene mean there’s something to get excited about.

Let curiosity tempt you to take a step back in time to the roaring 1920’s at Babylon. You can savour elite whiskeys from around the world, complex craft brews or let their expert mixologists craft you something enchanting.

Dreaming of exploring Hanoi or Bangkok? Head to Ginger Meg’s. The bar is inspired by the neon lit streets of South East Asia and oozes a mysterious, oriental ambience. Dine on vibrant flavours like kaffir lime, lemongrass and chilli while you indulge in a fragrant cocktail.

Dive into the delicate flavours of the sea at The Kingfish. The restaurant takes pride in serving fresh, quality seafood on Honeysuckle’s sparkling waterfront. If decision making isn’t your strong suit, share one of the chef’s platters. You’ll sample freshly shucked oysters, vibrant king prawns and flaky Barramundi straight from the big blue.

Feeling nostalgic? Check out the newly renovated Newcastle Station and treat yourself to hand-crafted, local produce. You can grab an aromatic Floozy coffee, a crusty loaf of artisan bread by Covered in Crumbs and fragrant honey by Urban Hum.

Why go chasing a Summer body when you can wine and dine somewhere new on a picturesque Spring day.