Good morning, Newcastle. Welcome back to the Newcastle Digest.

This week, we have part 3 of the Newcastle best burger quest, the usual segments plus a bit of Newcastle History and Valentine’s Day events

Table of Contents

• Eats

• Events

• Activities

• Miscellaneous

Newcastle’s Best Burger

Another week, another burger! This time, we stopped by Smashed Burger to try the Smashed Umami—a burger packed with bold flavours and a unique twist.

This one comes loaded with two smashed beef patties, American cheddar, smoky BBQ mayo, sautéed mushrooms with a hint of truffle oil, crispy bacon bits, and fried onions, all in a brioche bun.

The flavor? Solid. The mushrooms were an interesting addition, but the truffle oil didn’t really come through. The biggest letdown was the bun—it fell apart way too quickly, making it a bit of a mess to eat.

It's a strong showing, but it lands just behind The Falcons Double Deluxe and The Rascal. Still, there are plenty more burgers to go!

1. The Rascal - Rascals 84

2. Double Deluxe Cheeseburger - The Falcon 83

3. Smashed Burger - Smashed Umami 80

Newcastle trivia

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Thursday 13 February

Friday 14 February

Saturday 15 February

Sunday 16 February

Families

Friday Chill – Pacific Park, Newcastle | 14, 21, 28 February
Friday Chill is a free, family-friendly, live music event with local bands, food vendors, and street performers. Bring your own blanket or chairs and enjoy your own picnic or from the local food vendors. Time: 6:30pm - 8:30pm. More info. 

The Night Market – Newcastle Showground, Broadmeadow | 14 February
New Generation Night Market! Street food, talented artisans, dessert bar bliss, fully licensed venue, outdoor cinema, live entertainment, jumping castle and more. More info.

Romeo & Juliet – Rathmines Theatre, Rathmines | 14 February
Spoil yourself this Valentine’s Day with an acclaimed production of Romeo & Juliet performed by professional theatre troupe Come You Spirits. 7:30pm - 9:30pm. Tickets: $36-$40 + booking fee. More info.

Full Moon Gathering - Dixon Park | 14 February

During the week of the FULL MOON we will gather on Valentines Day to share the experience of meditation, sound bath, poetry, singing, drums and dance with respect for culture. We will gather on the grass near the outdoor BBQ shelter which is south of the surf club. Arrive from 6.30pm to set up or even earlier if you'd like to have a swim beforehand. Bring something to sit on for the meditation - blanket, rug, chair or yoga mat. BYO picnic or snacks if you wish. More info.

Maitland Show & Rodeo - Maitland Showground | 14 February – 16 February 2025

The 163rd Maitland Show will be held on Friday 14, Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 February 2025. Get along to see art, cattle, cooking, dogs, donkeys, goats, handicraft, honey, horses, horticulture, flora & produce, photography, poultry, rodeo, scarecrow, woodchopping and woodwork. There’ll be lots of live entertainment, attractions and educational activities for the whole family.

First Class 24 - Museum of Art and Culture (MAC) | Saturday 15 February – Sunday 6 April 2025

The Museum of Art and Culture, yapang proudly presents First Class 24, continuing its tradition of showcasing and celebrating the creative achievements of students from the previous year’s HSC Visual Arts cohort. This respected and esteemed exhibition celebrates the voices of these young adults, offering a platform that recognises, respects, and encourages their creative expression. More info.

Homegrown Markets - Rowlands Park, The Junction | 16 February

Homegrown Markets returns to Rowlands Park at The Junction, Merewether for our first market of 2025! We’ll be bringing a lineup of fab handmade & design stalls, yummy street food, live tunes & entertainment. More info.

Adults

Lloyd Langford - Work in Progress – Newcastle Comedy Club, Newcastle | 13 February
Join Lloyd as he throws a bunch of shit at the wall to see what sticks. Metaphorically. Renowned for his distinctively dry wit and impeccable timing. More info.

Ruby Moon – Young People’s Theatre, Hamilton | 13 - 16 February
Young People’s Theatre is thrilled to announce our first production of 2025, Ruby Moon, presented by the Lindsay Street Players. This gripping psychological mystery, written by Australian playwright Matt Cameron, explores themes of loss, suburban life, and the complexities of human emotion. More info.

Valentine's Menu – Thermidor, Newcastle | 13 - 16 February
Celebrate the season of love at Thermidor Brasserie with their Valentine's inspired Chef's Menu.

Valentine’s Day Flash Event – Sun Loft Studio, Mayfield East | 14 - 15 February
Treat yourself, your lover, or your bestie to a delicate hand-poked tattoo at the Sun Loft Studio two-day Valentine’s Flash event! 9am till late. Arrive in the morning, choose a design & get a text when we are ready for you! More info.

Bandaluzia Flamenco – Newcastle Conservatorium of Music | 14 February
"Bandaluzia is firmly established as one of the most enjoyable and exciting exponents of modern flamenco...A virtuoso display, rapturously received." 5 stars. The Advertiser, Adelaide. Time: 8:00pm. More info.

O-Week Party – The Exchange Hotel, Hamilton | 14 February
Calling all freshers and party pros! Kick off the semester at Newcastle’s BIGGEST O-Week Party. Free entry, DJs across two levels, $6 vodkas, $10 cocktails, and a free vodka Red Bull (8:00pm - 9:00pm).

Gal-entine's Day – The Nags Head, Adamstown | 15 February
Get to the Nags for the 4th Annual Galentine's Day! Celebrate in style with bottomless arancini’s and French martinis, all with your best girls. More info.

Studio M Open House – Studio M, Hamilton | 15 February
Whether you're dreaming of building your first home or you're already on the journey, this is your chance to step into Studio M's state-of-the-art Design & Inspiration Centre to gain valuable insights and chat with the expert team. More info.

Galentine's Day Trackside – Newcastle Racecourse, Broadmeadow | 15 February
Get ready for a glamorous day at the races with your best gals at The Trackside Marquee on Prosperity Advisers Race Day for an unforgettable Galentine’s Day, featuring unlimited cocktails, gourmet dining, and thrilling live racing action. Cost: $185 per person. More info and tickets.

Red Hot Summer Tour – Speers Point Park, Lake Macquarie | 15 February
Here comes another RED HOT ROCKIN' series, headlined by celebrated Aussie rockers ICEHOUSE! Supporting them are Noiseworks, Wolfmother, Eskimo Joe, Baby Animals, Killing Heidi & Bachelor Girl. More info and tickets.

Howlin' Country – Newcastle Foreshore | 15 February
It's about time Newcastle got a country music festival – Howlin’ Country is coming to the city in February with a lineup featuring international & local artists. One day, one stage, all ages. More info.

Tipsy Sketching Club – Earp Distilling Co., Carrington | 19 February
Join the Tipsy Sketching Club for a night of fun, life drawing, and beverages at Newcastle’s most unique distillery and event venue. More info

Want me to share an event in the Newcastle Digest?

Last weekend in Newcastle

These weekly recaps make me realise how much I’m spending on eating out. Can this be a business expense? Any accounts, feel free to let me know haha.

Newcastle & Ube City: A Sister City Connection

ICYMI – Last week’s trivia question was about Newcastle’s Sister City in Japan: Ube City.

Newcastle and Ube City, Japan, have shared a strong international partnership since 1980. Located in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Ube is a harbour city with an industrial background in coal and steel, similar to Newcastle.

Over the years, this relationship has fostered cultural exchanges, student programs, and economic ties. Local high schools—including Newcastle, Merewether, Kotara, and Wallsend—have participated in annual student exchange programs, allowing students to experience Japanese culture firsthand. The University of Newcastle's Language Centre also promotes Japanese language, art, and traditions.

Ube even hosts a Newcastle Fair, where Japanese visitors can experience a taste of Newcastle’s culture. From education to art to industry, the connection between Newcastle and Ube City continues to strengthen, showcasing the power of international friendship!

Valentines Day Preparation

Need an idea for Valentine's Day? Here are a few events that I have found around the area.

Dining Experiences

Âpé Yakitori Bar | 14 Feb

Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Âpé Yakitori Bar for $140pp, featuring a menu crafted to impress.📍 3n/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

A Tavola X Lot 19 Wickham | 14 Feb

Enjoy a curated four-course Italian meal and a champagne tower on arrival for a special Galentine’s treat at $120pp.📍 22 Greenway St, Wickham

Donda Pop Up Restaurant | 13-15 Feb

A Japanese-inspired set menu for two with share plates, funky wines, and cocktails, running all weekend.📍 45 Bolton St, Newcastle

Earp Distilling Co. | 14 Feb

A four-course dinner featuring seasonal dishes at $79pp.📍 41 Darling St, Carrington

The Greenroof | 14 Feb

For couples: $120 per couple, including an entree, main, shared dessert, and a bottle of wine.

For the dateless & desperate: Gather your friends and enjoy an entree, main, and cocktail for $55pp.📍 71 Tudor St, Hamilton

In Forno | 14 Feb

Romantic candlelit tables, live saxophone music, and special Valentine’s cocktails.📍 Charlestown & Hamilton locations

Jana | 14 Feb

A five-course Italian degustation at QT Newcastle for $149pp.📍 185 Hunter St, Newcastle

Market St Basement | 14 Feb

A delicious Valentine’s Day Italian feast for $99pp.📍 2/2 Market St, Newcastle

Nagisa | 14 Feb

Exclusive Valentine’s Day Seafood Degustation for $120pp.📍 2/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

The Nags Head | 15 Feb

4th Annual Galentine’s Day celebration with bottomless arancini and French martinis for $89pp.📍 272 Brunker Rd, Adamstown

Oh My Papa | 14 Feb

A special Valentine’s Day banquet for $89pp.📍 169 Hunter St, Newcastle

Peregrin | 14 Feb

A glass of Louis Roederer Collection 245 followed by a four-course degustation at $120pp.📍 1/99 Frederick St, Merewether

Romberg’s at Crystalbrook Kingsley | 14 Feb

A relaxed seafood platter experience for two at $79pp.📍 282 King St, Newcastle

Roundhouse at Crystalbrook Kingsley | 14 Feb

Three-course menu with sparkling wine on arrival. Lunch from $129pp, dinner from $149pp.📍 282 King St, Newcastle

Royal Crown Hotel | 14 Feb

A four-course Japanese set menu paired with whisky and sake for $158 per couple.📍 94 Ocean St, Dudley

Thermidor | 13-16 Feb

Chef’s special Valentine’s inspired menu.📍 1/7 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

TINTA | 13-14 Feb

13 Feb: Galentine's celebration

14 Feb: Romantic three-course shared coastal menu with GH Mumm on arrival for $99pp.📍 690 Pacific Hwy, Belmont

Urban Deli & Bar | 14 Feb

A share menu with a starter, pasta, main, and dessert, plus bubbles on arrival. Two seatings: 5:30pm & 8pm. $160 per couple.📍 143 Darby St, Cooks Hill

Wilderness Chef at Talulah | 14 Feb

A four-course dinner experience for $95pp.📍 53 Glebe Rd, The Junction

Unique Experiences

Valentine's Day at Dullboy’s | 14 Feb

Celebrate with a meal, live music (6pm-8:30pm), and a free game of mini golf with any main meal purchase. Special cocktails available!📍 Rutherford & Warners Bay

Romeo & Juliet at Rathmines Theatre | 14 Feb

A mesmerizing performance of Shakespeare’s timeless classic by the acclaimed Come You Spirits theatre company.📍 25 Stilling St, Rathmines

2 Montys Charity Wedding Auction | 14 Feb

Win an all-inclusive wedding package, with proceeds going to Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.📍 Ravella Newcastle, 48 Watt St

Salsa Romántica at Harrigan’s Hunter Valley | 14 Feb

Free Salsa lessons from 7:30pm, live music from Club Havana Band at 8pm, and special Valentine’s food & cocktails all day.📍 Harrigan's Hunter Valley