Is it a case of split personalities? Perhaps, but this sophisticated cafe, bar, deli and bistro seems to succeed at all four of its ambitious personalities. Locals and visitors alike flock to COQUUN to sample its locally sourced fare. The locale is owned by Daniel O’Leary, who is also part owner of beloved Redfern institution, The Dock – so you know the atmosphere is going to be good. The restaurant pays homage to the local indigenous landowners, the Wonnarua people, using their language for the name of the restaurant as well as throughout the menu.

Occupying a carefully restored 1830s-built structure and the former Historic Arnott Bakehouse, Morpeth Sourdough is owned by Stephen Arnott – the great, great grandson of William Arnott (of Arnott’s Biscuits) – and his wife Alison. Here, fresh sourdough is served fresh from the restored oven.

Arrive early or go home hungry, stick fingers – Icky Sticky Patisserie is a popular spot among sweet lovers and tends to sell out early. Try the frangipaine-filled croissant, a selection of tarts (think chocolate, bananas and caramel).

Seasonal fare is the order of the day at Cafe Seraphine, where simple food is prepared with panache. An ideal spot for a shared long lunch, the cafe boats a garden space and forms a perfect spot for post-gallery browsing at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

Once a cattle farm and now a picturesque boutique vineyard (complete with accommodation), Tranquil Vale is the work of Phil and Lucy Griffith who saw the site’s potential and created a wine and food-lovers’ sanctuary.

With an award-winning chocolatier in the neighbourhood, no trip to Maitland would be whole without trying Donarch Fine Chocolate’s raspberry hearts, salted caramels, muscat truffes and chocolate-coated honeycomb.

Visitors could be forgiven for thinking they’ve stepped foot into a Melbourne wine bar and restaurant when entering The Rigby, And yet, the 1870s heritage venue pays homage to its Maitland locality. Cafe by day, lounge and restaurant by night, this venue serves up top-notch dishes in an enchanting, old-world setting.

The scent of Little Marionette coffee and a menu of substantial, delicious dishes emerges from the kitchen at the light-filled Cunning Culinarian cafe. You can also opt for take-home options.

Eat your greens among the greens at this nursery and cafe that opens for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. This resplendent space offers the likes of sesame-crusted tuna, chicken and candied-walnut salad and high tea for those seeking a slow-paced afternoon.

Sip on traditional ginger beer, made in the old-fashioned way, at the Morpeth Ginger Beer Factory. And, while you’re there, pick up some fudge, nuts and honey to take home.

Nestled in historic Morpeth, Common Grounds is a cafe that delivers community spirit, great coffee, gorgeous views of the Hunter River and tasty meals in spades.

You’ve seen the hashtag (it stands for ‘just eat real food’, for those unacquainted), now meet the wholefood organic cafe of the same name. This site is all about catering to allergens, intolerances and dietary requirements. You’ll also fine fresh juices, and take-home items in store.

If you could spend a day sampling coffee, this might be your jam. From Dragonfly Foods to Black Label Espresso, then on to Cabin Collective (also a tattoo studio, if you’re feeling bold from all the caffeine) and The Bikesmith & Espresso Bar, Maitland has your coffee itinerary sorted.

At The Levee Central Maitland, the Slow Food Earth Market is held on the first and third Thursday of each month. And, it just so happens to be Australia’s first ever Slow Food Earth Market, which makes Maitland the first market in Australia to guarantee a 100% adherence to the concept of your food coming direct from “farm gate to dinner plate” at every stall. In fact, most of the produce sold at the market is grown within a 15km radius of Maitland.

Feeling inspired by the Slow Food Earth Market? Return to the earth, so to speak, at the Purple Pear Farm. Here, you can take a tour and learn more about life on the land.