Taster’s Trail | Port Stephens Winter Festival
If you love food and you love a good wander, then the Taster’s Trails at the Port Stephens Winter Whale Festival might just be your favourite part of winter. They’re back again for 2026. Bigger, better, and tastier than ever.
From five trails last year to six unique trails in 2026, each experience includes an appetiser, entrée, main, dessert, and complimentary drinks. And the best bit? You get to stroll between venues, course by course, without rushing a thing. This is slow food, served the Port Stephens way.
Red Trail
(Friday, 17th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
The Red Trail brings together a rich mix of coastal flavours, from crispy savoury bites and pan-fried scallops to seafood sliders and a bright limoncello tiramisu finish. You’ll be guided through some of Nelson Bay’s favourites, with each stop dishing up something a little different. It’s fresh, flavourful, and made for people who love a winter food adventure with plenty of variety. Experience the perfect midweek winter adventure at Good Kravings, The Buoys at the Bay, Cafe KIN, and Sirena Seaside.
Blue Trail
(Friday, 17th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
Set along the waterfront, the Blue Taster’s Trail pairs iconic scenery with a line-up of dishes that move from golden arancini and bruschetta pizza to pan-seared salmon, scallops, and a sweet mango pancake finish. It’s fresh, generous, and full of coastal flavour, with a relaxed pace and a complimentary drink to round out the experience. Bring your appetite and your camera. It’s time to create lasting memories at the following venues: Sirena Seaside, The Wood Oven, Sandpiper’s Restaurant, The Hawker’s Inn, and Seabreeze Hotel.
Purple Trail
(Friday, 10th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
The Purple Trail is for the curious eaters. It brings together a playful mix of flavours, from classic prawn cocktails and spiced Indian favourites to pan-seared salmon, scallops, and a smooth affogato finish. A bit eclectic, a bit adventurous, and definitely one to share with mates who appreciate something different. Experience a trail that surprises you in a good way at Nigronis Restaurant, The Only Place Indian, Sandpipers Restaurant, Essence Cafe, and Seabreeze Hotel.
Orange Trail
(Friday, 10th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
The Orange Trail turns up the energy. It’s bold, punchy, and packed with flavour from the very first bite, moving from crispy chicken wings and Thai mixed entrees to classic Chinese mains and a tiramisu finish. Expect lively venues, generous dishes, and a rhythm that keeps things moving. Great if you like your food trails with a bit of bounce. Expect a gastronomic experience from the following restaurants: Hogs Breath Nelson Bay, Sunan 9 Thai Restaurant, Jumbo Palace Chinese Restaurant, and Mavericks on the Bay.
Yellow Trail
(Saturday, 18th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
The Yellow Trail is bright, generous, and full of flavour. It brings together a lively mix of Thai favourites, savoury bites, pan-seared salmon and scallops, before finishing with Nutella and strawberry crepes at the final stop. It’s balanced, satisfying, and designed for those who enjoy variety without losing the sense of occasion. If you like elegance with a side of fun, this one’s calling your name. Enjoy great food at Mod Thai Nelson Bay, Good Kravings, Sandpiper’s Restaurant, and Mavericks on the Bay.
Green Trail
(Saturday, 18th July, 3:45 pm to 7pm)
As a newly added option, the Green Trail is rich, comforting, and made for those who like their winter food with depth. It starts with a fresh seafood tasting plate, moves into chef-special pork and fennel meatballs, then settles into slow-braised beef cheeks with truffle mash and port wine jus. To finish, Scoop & Roll brings the fun with your choice of double scoop or sundae. It’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavour from start to finish. Enjoy a memorable trail at Game Fishing Club, Gianni’s Restaurant, Zenith Cafe, and Scoop & Roll.
Ready, Set, Taste!
Taster’s Trail is the hottest ticket in town amidst all the festival fun, and they always sell out. If you’re thinking of coming, stop thinking and start booking.
Lock in your stay with Nelson Bay Accommodation. We’ve got the perfect place waiting for you. Then grab your walking shoes, your favourite people, and a healthy appetite. Great foodie options await you in this flavour-packed adventure through the local businesses of Nelson Bay, NSW.
Make it a weekend. Make it a week. Just don’t miss it.