This unassuming bakery is a favourite with locals and passers-by alike. The pies are delicious and the pastry is crunchy on top, and light and delicate at the bottom. Old-fashioned treats, such as vanilla slice and caramel tarts are full of flavour and never fail to disappoint. They're some of the best you'll ever eat. There's even a facebook group for people who love Crofts pies. The bakery does shut down for holidays over summer and is closed on Sundays. So if you're making a special trip, it's a good idea to phone ahead. The shop doesn't have anywhere for you to sit and eat your goodies, but there's a park across the road and you can also head to a picnic table down by the Hunter River if you're looking for a picturesque place to stop. Tel: (02) 6543 8099.

This is one of the Hunter's best-kept secrets and well worth the drive north. The food is homemade and has an international flair; think Aussie twists on Asian, Italian and French cuisine. You can buy wine by the bottle, glass or BYO. The outdoor setting is beautiful. Diners are shaded by grapevines while sitting by the river in a scene reminiscent of Renoir's The Picnic. The cafe is only open for lunch and breakfast on weekends. Tel: (02) 6546 6733.

The food here is simply delicious. My most recent meal was as part of a large group and it was great fun. Kerv works on a tapas style menu and even though you're not near the ocean the seafood is some of the freshest and tastiest I have tried; Sushi, beef carpaccio, cheese and posciutto plates are just some of the delicious offerings on the menu. And the best part is you can have a taste of everything because the dishes are small. Tel: (02) 6545 3111.

This place has long been a favourite with locals, but under a few different names. The latest incarnation has taken on the on site cheese factory and incorporated it with a restaurant. It's a great place to have a relaxed and delicious meal or sit in the sun enjoying the country surrounds with some great cheese and wine or coffee and cake.

In my opinion this is the best restaurant in the Upper Hunter. The French food is outstanding and the wine selection is also of an excellent standard.. This restaurant serves up creative meals that will satisfy even the hugest hunger. The dessert selection is extremely tempting and also varied. The restaurant is situated in a renovated house with views over the valley during the day and a cosy homestyle atmosphere in the evening. A trip here will certainly be one to remember. Tel: (02) 6542 5166

This restaurant may be in a pub, but the food is a cut above the typical grub. With alcohol readily available and a nice vista from the deck, Cepes is well worth a stop (once you've shopped 'til you've dropped in town). There's also accommodation on-site. Tel: (02) 6547 2207.