As accommodation hosts in Berry, we regularly help guests decide where to eat, drink and explore during their stay. This guide is based on local knowledge, guest feedback and our own favourite food experiences around Berry and the South Coast.
Finding The Best Eats in Berry
Looking for the Best Places to Eat in Berry NSW?
Berry is one of the most popular food destinations on the NSW South Coast. Located approximately two hours south of Sydney, Berry combines country charm with exceptional local produce, award-winning dining, artisan bakeries, boutique wine experiences and a thriving café culture.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, a romantic escape or a day trip from Sydney, Berry offers everything from fresh seafood and fine dining to handmade chocolates and iconic cinnamon donuts.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Places to Eat in Berry?
If you’re short on time, these are some of our favourite food experiences in and around Berry:
Best bakery: Milkwood Bakery
Best fine dining restaurant: South on Albany
Best seafood restaurant: The Blue Swimmer, Gerroa
Best iconic food experience: Berry Donut Van
Best wine experience: Silos Estate
Best breakfast cafés: Milkwood Bakery, Queen Street Café and The Garden Berry, Easy’s Cafe.
Queen Street Cafe
Best wine bar / Casual Evening Drinks: Le Bar
Read on for our complete guide.
Why Berry Has Become a Food Destination
Berry sits within one of New South Wales’ most productive agricultural areas.
The surrounding countryside produces:
- Seasonal fruit and vegetables
- Dairy products
- Beef and lamb
- Fresh seafood
- Boutique wines
- Artisan food products
Many local chefs work directly with nearby farmers and producers, allowing restaurants to showcase seasonal ingredients throughout the year.
This connection between local producers and hospitality is one of the reasons Berry has become a favourite destination for food lovers.
Best Breakfast and Coffee in Berry
Milkwood Bakery
Milkwood Bakery is one of Berry’s most recognised food destinations and a favourite recommendation for Mt Hay Retreat guests. Known for its artisan sourdough, pastries and excellent coffee, it is often one of the busiest spots in town.
Popular choices include:
- Fresh sourdough bread
- Almond croissants
- Seasonal pastries
- House-made cakes
- Specialty coffee
Arrive early on weekends as queues can form quickly.
A long-standing local favourite offering breakfast, lunch and one of Berry’s most popular high tea experiences.
The Garden Berry
A beautiful café setting that combines great coffee with fresh breakfast and lunch options.
IV Coffee
If you’re looking for quality takeaway coffee while exploring Berry’s shops and boutiques, IV Coffee is an excellent stop.
Best Restaurants in Berry NSW
Sonia and John, South on Albany
For visitors seeking a memorable dining experience, South on Albany remains one of Berry’s standout restaurants.
The menu changes seasonally and showcases local produce sourced from across the Shoalhaven region.
Expect:
- Fresh seafood
- Premium local meats
- Seasonal vegetables
- Carefully curated wine selections
This is one of our most recommended special occasion restaurants in Berry.
Tre Bambini serves classic Italian cuisine with a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike.
Their seafood dishes are particularly popular, alongside traditional pasta and Italian favourites.
A relaxed venue combining casual dining, tapas-style share plates and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ideal for couples, groups and anyone looking for a laid-back evening in town.
Best Seafood Near Berry
Located just a short drive from Berry in nearby Gerroa, The Blue Swimmer offers one of the best seafood dining experiences on the South Coast.
Guests can enjoy:
- Fresh local seafood
- Seafood platters
- Grilled fish
- Seafood pasta
- Beautiful waterfront views
If you’re staying for several days, we strongly recommend adding this to your itinerary.
Best Sweet Treats in Berry
Berry Donut Van
No food guide to Berry would be complete without mentioning the Berry Donut Van. Operating for more than 50 years, this local institution continues to attract visitors from across Australia. Their hot cinnamon donuts remain one of the most famous food experiences on the South Coast.
Berry Chocolatier specialises in handmade chocolates, truffles and gift boxes crafted using premium ingredients. It’s a popular stop for visitors looking to take home a local treat.
High Tea and Afternoon Tea
For a slower pace, consider:
- High Tea at Queen Street Café
- Cream Tea at Berry Tea Shop
Both offer a traditional experience perfect for relaxing after a morning of shopping or sightseeing.
Best Wine Bars, Wineries and Drinks in Berry
Le Bar is one of Berry’s newest wine destinations and has quickly developed a loyal following.
Located on Queen Street, it offers:
- Boutique wines
- Small-batch producers
- Cheese boards
- Share plates
- A relaxed and intimate atmosphere
Perfect for couples, date nights or a quiet afternoon drink.
Local Wineries
Located just outside Berry, Silos Estate provides wine tastings that showcase the character of South Coast wines. Visitors can sample a range of varietals while learning about the region’s wine-making heritage.
The Berry Hotel is a popular destination for cocktails, casual dining and social gatherings. Its daily happy hour makes it a favourite among both locals and visitors.
Beer lovers will find a strong selection of Australian and local craft beers on tap.
Known for its relaxed courtyard setting, Il Locale is ideal for long lunches, casual drinks and unwinding after a day exploring the region.
Local Produce and Farmers Markets
Berry Farmers Market
Held every Thursday afternoon, the Berry Farmers Market is one of the best places to discover local produce.
Visitors can find:
- Seasonal fruit and vegetables
- Fresh eggs
- Honey
- Artisan baked goods
- Local specialty products
The market reflects Berry’s strong connection to local farming and sustainable food production.
Berry Farmers Market
Frequently Asked Questions About Eating in Berry
What is Berry NSW famous for?
Berry is famous for its food scene, heritage streetscape, boutique shopping, cafés, wineries and local produce. It is widely considered one of the premier food destinations on the NSW South Coast.
What are the best restaurants in Berry?
Some of the most popular restaurants include South on Albany, Tre Bambini and The Rutledge Bar and Eats, while The Blue Swimmer in nearby Gerroa is a favourite for seafood.
What is the most famous food in Berry?
The Berry Donut Van is arguably the town’s most iconic food experience and has been serving visitors for more than five decades.
Is Berry worth visiting for food lovers?
Absolutely. Berry offers a rare combination of country hospitality, excellent local produce, artisan food businesses, wineries, cafés and restaurants, all within easy reach of Sydney.
How many days should I spend in Berry?
We usually recommend at least two nights. This allows enough time to enjoy Berry’s restaurants, cafés, wineries, shops, nearby beaches and surrounding countryside without rushing.
Planning a Food-Focused Stay in Berry?
One of the questions we hear most often from guests at Mt Hay Retreat is: “Where should we eat while we’re here?”
The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Some visitors come for long lunches and winery visits, others are searching for the best coffee in town, while many simply want to experience the famous Berry Donut Van.
Whatever your taste, Berry offers one of the most rewarding food experiences on the NSW South Coast, and discovering your own favourites is part of the fun.
If you’re planning a stay, we’d be delighted to share more local recommendations when you arrive.
Check our bookings page for the latest availability.
Louise, Mt Hay Retreat.
