THE BOOK REVIEW PG 1-50

REVIEW

REVIEW

NORTHERN RIVERS

Our pick of the region’s top hotspots. Loved by locals and visitors alike. FREE

Each year The Book REVIEW carefully selects a group of the best local eateries, bars, boutiques, galleries, salons, spas and experiences to bring you this exclusive annual publication.

The Northern Rivers region is full of old favorites and hidden treasures. We have put together a unique collection of opportunities for an extraordinarily rich and diverse cultural experience in a wonderfully laid back and idyllic setting.

The Book is designed to guide you to the best places, which are loved by locals and visitors alike. Let us share with you our favourite places across the region by making The Book REVIEW your companion during your stay.

You can also check out our Instagram and website to keep up-todate with events and information.

Enjoy!

eat. drink

Karkalla Byron Bay

This Indigenous restaurant is inspired by Mindy Woods, a proud Bundjalung woman. Locally sourced, seasonal produce and native Australian ingredients are combined with modern techniques to create thoughtful, beautiful and delicious dishes – food to connect and build community and revitalise culture.

Karkalla aims to provide guests with a truly memorable Byron Bay experience and warm, knowledgeable service with genuine food and beverage offerings.

Open Thurs to Mon for Dinner. First sitting from 5pm. Late sitting from 7:30pm.

Shop

(02) 5614 8656

10, 8 Fletcher St, Byron Bay

Bang Bang

Espressohead

Tucked away in the heart of Byron, Espressohead has been a local’s hideout for well over a decade, thriving on a constant flow of regular customers. Their all-day menu boasts fresh, locally sourced, organic meals from vegan to gluten-free options whilst priding themselves on their exceptional coffee within every cup.

So pull up a chair and nestle into this quaint and cosy space to experience Byron like a local. Good food – Good coffee – Good times!

Open 7 days 6:30am–2pm.

Shop

Red Ginger

Walking through the doors of Red Ginger is like stepping through the lanes of old Shanghai and finding your senses come alive to the sights and smells of Asia. Rich spices, groceries, steaming Yum Cha snacks, oriental medicines, fine teas, tea pots, gifts, recipe books and traditional Chinese furniture. The heady aromas and visual artistry make Red Ginger a dynamic hub for locals and visitors who keep returning for the delights of sitting in the store eating Yum Cha and drinking the complimentary green tea.

Open Mon to Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9:30am–5:30pm, Sun 10am–5pm.

111 Jonson St, Byron Bay

38 Byron St, Bangalow

(02) 6680 9779

redginger.com.au

Red Ginger Asian Food & Home red_ginger_byron

11 • Byron Bay

Bombay to Byron

Expect a warm welcome and quality service from this authentic Indian restaurant. The most delicious Indian food outside of India. There is something on the menu for everyone with dishes that range from South India to North India.

Vegan, Gluten-free options available and all the meat is halal.

Open Mon 4:30pm–9:30pm, Tues to Sun 12pm–3pm and 4:30pm–9:30pm.

Shop 12, 90-96 Jonson St, Byron Bay

(02) 6680 8355

bombaytobyron.com.au

bombaytobyron

bombaytobyron

Loft

Located just off the sand of famous Main Beach and centrally elevated above bustling Jonson Street, Loft cocktail bar and restaurant has the ultimate Byron Bay vibe with impressive food, irresistible cocktails and an extensive beer and wine list. Loft is the perfect place to enjoy casual, modern dining from its beautiful seaside terrace overlooking the beach and town. Walk-ins welcome or book a table online, with spaces available for group bookings of 15 and more.

Open Mon to Fri 4pm–late. Weekend lunch from midday.

4 Jonson St, Byron Bay

(02) 6680 9183

loftbyronbay.com.au

Loft Byron Bay loftbyronbay

Saltwater Social Club

Right at the heart of town, you’ll find Saltwater Social Club, Byron’s late-night hangout and bar. Rocking a vintage coastal vibe over two floors, there’s something for everyone.

DJs spin tunes downstairs, while upstairs you can enjoy signature cocktails around the fireplace, play pool, or pick from over a dozen craft beer tinnies, as well as tap beer, organic wine and bubbles on the iconic outdoor balcony. Happy hour specials nightly. Good times. High tides. Late nights. High vibes.

Open 7 days 8pm–late.

32 Jonson St, Byron Bay

(02) 6685 8493

saltwatersocialclub.com.au

SaltysByron

OSushi

Over the past 18 years, OSushi has become a culinary icon in Byron Bay. Owned by the same local family, OSushi has placed an emphasis on giving a comprehensively unique experience, focusing on great food, great service and a great atmosphere. Produce is selected with precise attention, using free-range, organic, and local ingredients from the Northern Rivers region to create a Japanese-fusion menu full of innovation and quality. OSushi offers a modern seasonal menu, prepared with traditional techniques, all presented by talented chefs and warm friendly service. OSushi is a must when visiting Byron Bay. Open 7 days 12pm–late.

(02) 6685 7103

osushi.com.au

OSushi

osushi_byronbay

Shop 15, Woolworths Plaza, 90-96 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Bun Coffee (locally roasted)

A good coffee changes everything. Choose from ethically sourced Certified Organic, Rainforest Alliance, Fair Trade, Australian grown blends or compostable coffee pods, all traceable to origin.

If you want to travel a bit further afield, Explore the Single Origin Bar and taste the world of coffee through the unique Single Origin collection from over 40 countries.

Open Mon to Fri 6am–3pm.

(02) 6680 9798 buncoffee.com.au

Elixiba

At Elixiba they breathe new life into plant-based recipes. Innovative food and cocktails which are crafted from the finest produce from local farmers and growers.

Meals are suitable for coeliacs, as the menu is fully gluten-free. Divine nachos and nourishing kindness bowls, handmade vegan burgers, herbal cocktails and more. The bar uses custom-brewed alcohol and artisan ingredients, so you can discover the perfect botanical beverage. Relax and enjoy this beautiful venue with handcrafted furniture in an all-natural interior.

Open 7 days 12pm–8pm.

10 Feros Arcade, 23 Jonson St, Byron Bay

(02) 6685 6845

elixiba.com

The Beach Hotel

Whether you are keen for a laid back afternoon watching the sun set with a beer or sipping on a margarita whilst listening to live music, the Beachy has you covered. They offer a seasonal menu that supports local producers, from Ballina King Prawns to Local Salumi Plate, not forgetting your pub favourites. Downstairs is a speciality bottle shop stocking local and international favourites, (open ʻtil midnight) and next door they have resort style accommodation. One of the only venues overlooking Byron’s Main Beach. Visit the website for upcoming events – featuring local artists along with headline acts. See website for latest opening hours.

1 Bay St, Byron Bay

(02) 6685 6402

beachhotel.com.au

beach.hotel.byron.bay

beachhotelbyronbay

Folk

Welcome to the Garden. Amongst the trees on the outskirts of town, you’ll find Folk. Home to the famous Folk Nourish Bowl and Folk Burrito. The breezy and eclectic design, specialty coffees by Dukes Coffee Roasters and nourishing, organic food have earned Folk an unmatched local and international reputation. They have featured in Vogue and been named in the top 20 destinations to visit in Australia by the Good Food Guide. Folk have established themselves as firm leaders in the modern café scene and plant based movement. Pop in for a visit with the locals and leave your worries (and your shoes) at the door.

Sunrise Blvd, Byron Bay

(02) 6685 5265

folkbyronbay.com

North Byron Hotel

Away from the centre of town, the North Byron Hotel is a thriving mecca of amazing food, chilled vibes and great music. Enjoy your day in the sunny garden or enjoy an intimate dining experience, with wood fired pizzas, locally sourced seafood and produce thereʼs something here for everyone. 32 tap beer options, a range of cocktails and spirits, and a smashing wine list curated by their in-house sommeliers. The North Byron Liquor Merchants sits next door with over 500 wines and spirits, 200 craft beers there is something for every occasion. With an awesome atmosphere alongside quality food and drinks, North Byron Hotel is the place to be for locals and tourists alike. See website for opening hours.

61 Bayshore Dr, Arts & Industry Est. Byron Bay

(02) 6685 6500

northbyronhotel.com.au

thenorthbyronhotel northbyronhotel

Barrio Eatery and Bar

Barrio brings people together through the experience of food with an emphasis on local, seasonal, ethically-sourced produce, seamlessly reflecting Byron Bay’s ethos. Their wood-fire oven and open-flame grill is the heart of the restaurant and all dishes are centred around the unique flavours imparted through this style of cooking. All produce is smoked, cured, and pickled in-house and the menu is constantly evolving. Barrio is a place to meet, connect, share and eat – your home away from home.

Open Sun to Tues 7am–3pm. Wed to Sun 7am–10pm.

0411 323 165

barriobyronbay.com.au

Byron Bay Cookie Company

Baked to perfection since 1990, Byron Bay Cookies were originally baked on an old farmhouse stove in the hills of the Byron Bay hinterland, and now spread their crumbs around the world. Cookie lovers of all ages will enjoy their wide selection of gourmet cookies, biscuits and crispbreads, as well as the ever popular factory seconds.

Shop online or visit their Jonson St boutique or their flagship store in the Arts & Industry Estate – now serving coffee.

Shop 3, 4 Jonson St, Byron Bay

Unit 1, Ozigo Complex, Arts & Industry Est. (Cnr Ewingsdale Rd and Bayshore Dr) Byron Bay

(02) 6685 6925

cookie.com.au

Byron Bay Cookies byronbaycookies

Three Blue Ducks

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm Byron Bay is set on an 80-acre farm and macadamia orchard and is a truly special experience not to be missed. They offer an à la carte menu to sit down in the rustic style restaurant for brekky, lunch and dinner. Or head into their produce store and grab something to take away. You can also pre-order a hamper from their website filled with the best seasonal, locally sourced produce and enjoy it laid out on a picnic rug on the farm.

Open 7 days.

Byrons newest bakery Masa is a local bakehouse located in Byron Bay Arts & Industry Estate specialising in artisan croissants and sourdough.

Originally from Columbia, chef and long-time baker Josè opened the bakery in 2021 drawing inspiration from a range of cuisines he’s worked with in the past pairing his passion for creativity and originality with a French favourite. Masa’s menu changes regularly with seasonal produce and flavour exploration. Creating a truly memorial experience for every return.

Open 7 days 7am–1pm.

Shop 8, 18 Centennial Cct, Arts & Industry Est. Byron Bay

(02) 5614 8656 masabyronbay masabyronbay

Masa Byron Bay

A Chef’s Pocket

A Chef ’s Pocket offer a unique catering service preparing the menu of your choice, in the comfort of your own home or holiday accommodation.

From a beautiful Peruvian ceviche to a yummy Italian pasta, all with the best local ingredients. Chefs Andrés and Franco are super friendly and relaxed, yet utterly professional and proficient, they cook, serve and leave the kitchen spotless clean!

Enjoy a night with family and friends with nothing for you to do but pour the wine and enjoy the tastes. Perfect for your next gathering.

Byron Bay and surrounds

0452 580 046

achefspocket.com

La Casita

An authentic take on Mexican cuisine, this ʻlittle houseʼ is a warm, relaxed dining experience. They have a wonderful network of local, mindful producers and are fortunate to work with the incredible produce the region provides. Dishes are simple yet complex in flavour. Fully licensed, shaking up cocktails and sourcing a diverse range of agave spirits, natural wines and beer. The restaurant has a great vibe, the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable on the food they serve. The food is a flavour sensation and the cocktails top shelf!

Open Fri to Mon 5pm (kitchen closes 9pm). Sun lunch 12pm–2:30pm.

Shop 5, 3 Fawcett St, Brunswick Heads

(02) 6685 1223

lacasita.com.au

Cadeau Restaurant

Be transported to Europe with a menu of classic French and British dishes. Exceptional cooking combining local produce with finest culinary skills, presented in a warm but chilled bistro vibe. The waiters are friendly and knowledgeable, both in explaining each dish and offering wine selections. You feel like you are eating at a Michelin star restaurant – Cadeau is the kind of place you want to go back to. The food, the service, the wine list and the atmosphere are all first class!

Open Thurs to Sat 5:30pm–10pm. Sun 12pm–2:30pm and 5:30pm–9pm.

Shop

(02) 6685 1111

cadeaurestaurant.com

2, 26 Mullumbimbi St, Brunswick Heads

Hotel

Shaded by glorious Poinciana trees, the Hotel Brunswick beer garden is a beautiful place to relax with friends and family. This delightful country pub has kept its historic charm, and is known for its fresh, generous meals, outstanding beer selection, and live music on weekends.

The “Bruns” also offers comfortable, affordable rooms with river views. Open 7 days 10am–11pm.

(02) 6685 1236

hotelbrunswick.com.au

Eclair at the Bay

Eclair at the Bay is a new unique homemade pastry business entirely dedicated to the creation of contemporary eclairs and luxury desserts. They aim for the highest quality possible with tradition and authenticity in mind, sourcing fresh ingredients and supporting local producers.

Their desserts have delicious and unusual flavours, revisiting classics in their own way! Find them at local markets or book catering for a wedding or event. Pre-order online or get in touch via email info@eclairatthebay.com

eclair.at.the.bay eclair.at.the.bay 0457 609 755 eclairatthebay.com

Mullumbimby Chocolate Shop

This old fashioned Chocolate Shop in Mullumbimby, serves gourmet chocolates, fudge, Turkish delight, chocolate covered nuts and fruit, brittles and licorice along with gelato and sorbet too, with plenty of dietary options available. Step back in time to old fashioned service with a smile and choose from an incredible selection of over 100 lollies at their chocolate and lolly bar. Definitely worth a visit to The Sweetest Shop in Town!

Open Mon to Thurs 9am–5:30pm. Fri 9am–6pm. Sat 9am–4pm. Sun 10am–2pm.

(02) 6684 4825

mullumbimbychocolateshop.com.au

Milk & Honey Wine Bar & Pizzeria

Milk & Honey Wine Bar & Pizzeria is a cozy restaurant offering delicious wine, tasty cocktails and artisan wood-fired bar snacks and pizzas. It has a frequently changing menu showcasing seasonal, locally sourced produce. They believe in simplicity and transparency in flavours, allowing each ingredient to speak for itself. Using the highest quality, freshest produce they can find, embracing the artisan nature of wood-fired baking. The wine and cocktail list is ever changing, featuring the best of Australia’s most sustainable small producers.

Open Tues to Sat 4pm, for dine in or takeaway.

(02) 6684 1422

Harvest Newrybar – Deli & Village Green

Coffee, freshly baked pastries, bread, sandwiches, salads and lunch specials are available, alongside a large offering of artisanal goods. Every weekend, the precinct comes alive for Sourdough Weekends, with a larger selection of pastries and sourdough bread. The deli spills onto an adjacent edible garden, village green with children’s playground, and historic bakery with working 120-year wood-fired oven. It’s a perfect picnic spot. Keep an eye out for community events across these spaces. Stop by for a casual meal, to stock your pantry, or ask the team to help you craft a grazing platter of local cheeses, charcuterie and wines and beers.

Open 7 days 6:30am–3pm.

18–22 Old Pacific Hwy, Newrybar

(02) 6687 2644

deli.harvest.com.au

Harvest.Newrybar.Deli harvestdeli

Harvest Newrybar

Set within the historic village of Newrybar, a short ride from Byron Bay, you’ll find locally owned Harvest – a thriving food and hospitality precinct with community at its heart. The restaurant at Harvest is one of the most exciting dining experiences in the Northern Rivers, showcasing the diversity of the local region, supporting the farmers, growers and artisans behind everything it serves. Dishes are simple and honest, changing with the seasons. Enjoy a long lunch, afternoon aperitivo, or dinner overlooking the gardens, sharing plates of vibrant food, paired with the very best Australian wines and cocktails. Open for lunch, dinner and drinks.

(02) 6687 2644 harvest.com.au

Bangalow Bread Co.

A modern bakery specialising in artisan sourdough. Their baked goods are freshly made daily with the the finest, most delicious, local ingredients. They also serve Old Quarter coffee (bring your Huskee cup).

For your next outdoor occasion, bring your picnic basket and let them fill it with delicious nourishing food and naughty treats. They also offer a catering service, to make your next gathering truly special, including birthday and wedding cakes.

Open Mon to Fri 6am-3pm. Sat and Sun 7am–2pm.

21 Byron Bay Rd,

(02) 6687 1209

Bangalow

bangalowbread.co

Woods Bangalow

Woods Bangalow offers exceptional coffee and friendly service within an alfresco dining setting in the beautiful Arts Precinct, and private dining experiences a few doors down in the lush new space, The Cacthaus. Meals are created with health and wellbeing in mind, not to mention a taste bomb of seasonal, delicate, clean and fun flavours. Chef Sam and the team use as much locally grown produce available to support their growers and local businesses. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, Woods’ regional approach to fresh and wholesome food is a direct reflection on how their diners like to eat.

Open 7 days 7:30am–2:30pm (Sat from 7am in Summer).

10 Station St, Bangalow

woodsbangalow.com

woodsbangalow thecacthaus

The Hut

Inspired by the Mediterranean and the pleasure of eating together, The Hut Byron Bay menu celebrates the simplicity of traditional Mediterranean flavours through delightful dishes created to be shared.

In a stunning location up the hill in Possum Creek, the service is professional and friendly, you won’t be dissapointed.

The perfect venue for your event from weddings to birthdays.

Open Fri to Sun 12pm–3pm. Bookings essential.

471 Friday Hut Rd, Possum Creek

The Diner

A community restaurant specialising in farm to table dining. Situated in the heart of Lennox Head, The Diner Lennox offers a family style shared plate dining experience. Weekly changing menus designed by Chef Martin Morelli are driven by the best produce available through farms and markets in the local area.

Wine and beverage offerings are curated by ex Sommelier Tim Bryar and change with the same consistency as the food. Indoor and alfresco seating options are available.

Open Mon to Fri 4:30pm–late.

Shop 2, 63-65 Ballina St, Lennox Head

(02) 7251 4790

thedinerlennox.com.au

Mr Tipsy’s

Offering an exciting mouthwatering menu featuring comfort food from across Asia, complimented by creative cocktails, local craft and international beer selections and a wine list to match.

Enjoy indoor or outdoor alfresco dining, a casual but energetic atmosphere with funky beats. The staff are extremely attentive and friendly.

There is something for everyone, kid friendly options also available.

Open Wed to Thurs 5pm–late. Fri to Sun 4pm–late. (extended trading hours in summer)

(02) 5602 5199 mrtipsys.com.au

Shorty’s tapas and wine bar is the place to be when in Lennox Head, it is reminiscent of something you’d find in the depths of a Melbourne City back alley. They offer a carefully curated tapas menu and have a drinks list that will keep you coming back for more, whether catching up with your mates over a craft beer or sipping on one of their many amazing cocktails. Shorty’s is a firm favourite to locals and visitors alike. Keep an eye on their socials for live music and happy hours.

Open Wed to Sun 4pm–late.

Mumbai Massala

Come to experience a lovely evening by the Richmond River and let your taste buds be mesmerised by progressive Indian culture and cuisine. The menu showcases head chef Rahuls, culinary journey and his love of Indian food. Enjoy one of their banquets with family and friends.

They also have a dynamic cocktail menu featuring local artisan spirits as well as an extensive wine list and craft beers available. Affordable, delicious and authentic.

Open Mon to Sun 11:30am–9:30pm.

Shop 13/14, 26-54 River St, Ballina

(02) 6681 4095

mumbaimasala-indian.com.au

mumbaimasalaindianrestaurant

mumbai_masala_indian

Dory’s Takeaway and The Neighbour

Dory’s Takeaway and The Neighbour have all your bases covered.

Choose from their quality takeaway fish and chips and burgers or let them take care of you at The Neighbour with their Al’a Carte menu, warm table service and a full bar. They even have a selection of favourite meals for you to enjoy at home.

Perfect for your dinner party or date night at home. Locals serving the community with good honest food made from scratch.

Check socials for up-to-date opening hours.

173 River St, Ballina

(02) 6686 6828 dorystakeaway.com