Want to know where to find Maitland’s best coffee? Just ask a parent. Blend a great brew with a welcoming space for the kids and word travels fast. Here’s our pick of Maitland’s best family friendly coffee shops to provide a haven these winter school holidays.
The Levee
Spend the day exploring the vibrant entertainment precinct at The Levee in Central Maitland. Here you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to specialty coffee options. Before you hit the shops, stop into Birch & Coffee Co. inside The Hatch and pair your cuppa with a delicious house baked treat. Grab your coffee and take to the streets to explore The Levee’s impressive public art. Snap a treasured family pic in front of Maitland’s iconic mural, ‘The New One’ at the Bourke Street Link, or wander to the Riverlink to see the striking Clouds Gathering Sculpture.
For a brew with a view, park yourself alongside the picturesque Hunter River. Located riverside at The Levee, The Orange Tree café is a long time coveted brunch spot offering generous servings. Sit under the lush canopy of the orange tree in the enclosed courtyard or perch on the patio for idyllic river views. The kids will love their tasty waffles and pancakes served with ice cream and your choice of toppings, or try the churros with butterscotch or Nutella dipping sauce.
New to The Levee and situated on the riverfront with ample room for the kids to move is Acacia Dining. They offer an extensive breakfast menu until 3pm, with fun options like their Fairybread Pancake and Nutella Frappe that are hard to beat. Indulge in a slice of nana’s old favourites, with fresh cake deliveries daily from Newcastle’s popular Cakeboi.
For a cozy setting on a chilly day, head to The Whistler on High Street. The experienced team does comfort food oh so well, with the bonus of a playroom to keep the kids entertained and contained.
Central Maitland
Curious young minds will love the eclectic setting at Niche on High. The space previously housed an interior design company and embraces the gorgeous exposed brick, high ceilings and polished floorboards. Vintage furniture and trinkets create a warm and inviting vibe. Pick up a chess board or a book and find a nook to settle into. If your little ones are best placed outdoors, there is a large enclosed garden area for them to roam.
Keep walking down High Street to The Cunning Culinarian for a visit to this much loved café that is about as charming as it gets. The historic building creates a lovely backdrop and the team consistently deliver fabulous coffee, food and service.
Maitland Regional Art Gallery is a must see and offers regular activities for kids, such as Free Art Sundays, as well as special school holiday programs. Seraphine Café is located within the gallery and offers a polished menu and setting. Catch some winter sunshine in the café’s courtyard.
Maitland Park is a gem for families with younger kids. The fenced playground has lots of equipment to appeal to busy toddlers, as well as a scooter track and flying fox for older kids. Try the nearby Central Park Café at the Maitland Visitor Information Centre for their decadent winter warmers, such as a Toasted Marshmallow Cappuccino or Butterscotch Hot Chocolate. Don’t forget your favourite pooch! Their “Puppy Menu” includes a range of sweet and savoury treats for your family’s best friend.
Greater Maitland
For those looking to venture a little further, a short drive to Morpeth offers a peek into the life of Australia’s early settlers. This picturesque historic village is just five minutes from Maitland and has so much to discover. Common Grounds is a Morpeth favourite, renowned for delicious coffee overlooking the Hunter River. Be sure to pop into Miss Lily’s Lollies for a feast for your eyes and tastebuds, with homemade fudge and traditional sweets from around the world.
Travel the opposite direction to Lorn to sample the delectable pastries at the region’s infamous Icky Sticky Patisserie. You’ll want to arrive early though as these treats don’t last long. There is seating at the café to enjoy your goodies right away, or takeaway and follow Maitland Countryside Drive to find a scenic picnic spot.
Budding gardeners will come into bloom at the Heritage Garden Nursery Café. Browse the Hunter’s largest selection of plants and trees as you wander through the speciality nursery before arriving at this pretty cafe. Indulge in a “Kids High Tea” and leave with a plant to start your own family kitchen garden.
Want more?
With plenty of satisfying coffee options to suit families of all shapes and sizes, rug up and hit the streets these winter school holidays to experience the best Maitland has to offer.
