Overlooking a peaceful dam at Gartelmann Wines, The Deck Café Lovedale is a go-to Hunter Valley spot for breakfast, brunch and relaxed lunch—think classic café favourites in the morning, then a tapas-style lunch with a Hunter twist, served on a breezy timber deck among young bushland. It’s casual, family-friendly and genuinely local, with friendly service and an easy Lovedale location just minutes from Pokolbin.
Chef-owner Matt Dillow’s team keeps things generous and seasonal: house breakfasts, Vittoria coffee and juices; by lunch, shareable plates that pair neatly with Gartelmann wines by the glass. The venue also runs locally loved “Locals Nights,” high teas, group menus and occasional special dinners, so it’s worth checking what’s on when you book.
Why go
- Setting: a café literally on the deck over the water with vineyard and bush views—ideal between tastings or after a Lovedale drive.
- All-day ease: breakfast daily, tapas-inspired lunch, walk-in friendly outside peak times; groups welcome with a booking.
- Wine at the door: step from the café to Gartelmann’s cellar door for a tasting before or after you eat.
What to expect
- Menu style: classic breakfasts and brunch dishes; tapas-style lunch plates to share. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options appear seasonally.
- Coffee & drinks: Vittoria coffee, juices and a concise list of local wines (spotlight on Gartelmann).
- Extras: High Teas, group menus, off-site catering and special event nights across the year.
- Typical hours: commonly 8:30–15:30 weekdays and 8:00–15:30 weekends (check seasonal updates and public-holiday changes).
Plan your visit
- Address: 701 Lovedale Road, Lovedale NSW 2325
- Bookings & enquiries: (02) 4930 9007 • bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au • Online reservations via NowBookIt.
- Good to know: trading hours can shift for events or renovations—check the café’s latest updates on their site/socials before you go.
Pair your day in Lovedale
Start with a cellar-door tasting at Gartelmann Wines, settle into brunch or lunch on The Deck, then loop through nearby Lovedale producers before sunset back at The Vintry. The calm, water-side setting makes it a handy rendezvous for families and groups exploring both Lovedale and central Pokolbin.
Quick facts
- Venue: The Deck Café Lovedale @ Gartelmann Wines
- Style: Breakfast, brunch, tapas-style lunch, coffee & wines
- Location: 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale • (02) 4930 9007 • bookings@deckcafelovedale.com.au
- Accessibility & vibe: alfresco deck, family-friendly; bookings advised for groups and peak times.