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Paddock to Plate: A Hawkesbury Ethos

The Hawkesbury region, often referred to as the Food Bowl of Sydney, earns its endearing nickname in tremendous part to the vibrancy of its local produce, and the local restaurants and eateries that support it. This ethos carries through in the Paddock to Plate philosophy, with local produce elevated on menus throughout the region. This is a part of the very important Hawkesbury cultural landscape. 


Found on the rich agricultural lands of the Darug and Darkinjung People, welcome to the Hawkesbury, an area abundant in fine meals, welcoming ambience and the kind of experiences you tell your inner circle about. WEST wants to share with you some establishments that live and breathe the paddock to plate ethos. Offering you the best of local Hawkesbury produce, straight from the farm and right onto your plate.



Recipient of both a 2025 Australian Good Food Guide and Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide Hat, Cricca is a small “Italian-ish” restaurant located in the heart of Windsor, the first restaurant in the area to be awarded such acclaim. With a name that has an origin of Roman dialect meaning “clique” or “group of friends who share similar interests”, the restaurant boasts an intimate dining experience that emulates caring hospitality and reflection of the training both owners - Alessio and Giles – bring to their dishes.


The restaurant is unique in a sense that, although Italian in influence, has no set boundaries in terms of the vision the Chefs have. The food focuses on seasonality and locality, and the atmosphere is a place where patrons feel as though they are a part of something warm and welcoming. For a special hatted experience in the Hawkesbury, Cricca is an establishment not to miss.




 

Tucked away in the heart of the Hawkesbury Valley is Harvest Restaurant, a hidden gem offering a warm, cosy atmosphere and exceptional service. Nestled inside the Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley, the restaurant embraces a farm-to-plate philosophy, the menu showcasing the finest fresh produce from the local region’s abundant food bowl.  

 

From beautifully grilled steaks sourced from Australia’s premium meat suppliers to locally inspired flavours, every dish is a celebration of quality and craftsmanship. With views over the lakeside gardens, refined accommodation onsite and for an exceptional dining experience, Harvest Restaurant needs to be at the top of your list. 



 

 

Rooted in the rich farmland of the Hawkesbury, The Butler’s Pantry Cafe is a celebration of the land’s heritage and the local producers who continue its story. Inspired by the old dairy farms and homesteads that once stood before, the menu proudly reflects a paddock-to-plate philosophy - sourcing fresh, seasonal ingredients from the region wherever possible, bringing the best of the Hawkesbury to your table.  

 

Small local producers are in the spotlight, including Kurrajong Kitchen Lavosh, Blue Mountains Honey, Llandilo Farm Fresh Eggs, Senza Sempre, Karu Distillery and Hillbilly Cider. An emphasis is placed on fresh fruit and vegetables, handpicked from local Hawkesbury farms, ensuring every plate tells a story of quality, seasonality, and connection to the land. With a terrace outside overlooking Redbank Lake and a cosy fireplace inside, enjoy food delivered with a true Paddock to Plate philosophy.




 

Mélange Bilpin lives by the motto 'Elegant Dining, Inspired by the Region’. Believing that great food and great company go hand in hand, their mission is to create memorable dining experiences by providing exceptional service and delicious cuisine.  

 

Committed to using only the freshest ingredients and supporting local producers who are as passionate about what they do as they are, bringing refined flavours to the table with a deep respect for the land. Their seasonal menus showcase locally grown produce, regional wines, and small-batch beverages - all served in a warm, elegant setting in the abundantly produce-rich area of Bilpin.  




 

Woven into the fabric of Kurrajong Village, Schembrae’s at Kurrajong is the type of place that invites visitors to feel right at home, with authentic Mediterranean tapas crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.  

 

Enjoy lunch with the most magnificent views over the Hawkesbury Valley, or an intimate dinner with distant views of shimmering city lights at night. Schembrae’s at Kurrajong’s mission is to provide a space for community to gather with family and friends and enjoy authentic Mediterranean cuisine, paired with signature cocktails and a handpicked selection of local wine and beers. Taking care of those with dietary needs and with award-winning hospitality, Schembrae’s at Kurrangong is the type of place that offers an unforgettable dining experience, right in the heart of Kurrajong. 



 

Driven by their mission ‘lovethylocal’ in support of local products, owners Ash O’Rourke and Josh Domars are motivated to provide a unique experience at their Windsor restaurant, The Church Bar. Calling the old Windsor church home, the historic building was established in 1869 as a congregational church, and the restaurant retains its character where diners can enjoy local produce meals, vintage style High Tea and regular music events surrounded by heritage.  

 

Aspiring to provide an experience bursting with friendly service, along with offering one of the largest ranges of local products in the area serving Hillbilly Cider, Jubilee Vineyard Estate, Karu Distillery, Wild Hibiscus and Mountain Culture Beer. For a truly unique experience to share with family and friends, The Church Bar is a stand out in the Hawkesbury region. 


 

Known for its diverse range of produce and vibrant food scene, a day exploring the Hawkesbury is a day of discovery where food is the hero of the day. So hop in that car, head for the Hawkesbury, and get ready to sip and savour your way through the finest food in the region.





 
 
 

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