Maitland’s beloved ACACIA Dining, the brainchild of MasterChef alum Reece Hignell, has entered a bold new era. Known for its delicious brunch and refined yet approachable lunch menu, the riverside eatery has now expanded into evenings, a move that locals have been eagerly waiting for.
“We’d been asked to offer a night menu for so long, and over time we’ve been building both the team and the experience to take this step,” said Reece. “Now feels like the right moment – we’re so excited to finally bring evenings to ACACIA.”
The new ACACIA by Night offering brings a contemporary, share-style menu that celebrates seasonal produce and Hunter Valley suppliers. It’s a menu that manages to feel elevated without losing ACACIA’S trademark warmth. Highlights include the elegant Garlic Prawn Linguini with chilli, white wine and lemon; the melt-in-your-mouth Spring Lamb with tahini yoghurt, crispy chickpeas, charred leek and mint chimichurri; and the indulgent Chocolate Burnt Basque Cheesecake paired with orancello.
“We’d been asked to offer a night menu for so long, and over time we’ve been building both the team and the experience to take this step,” said Reece.
While guests have been raving about the lamb, Reece has a personal soft spot for another dish.
“I love the house-made gnocchi with sweet corn purée, sautéed zucchini, ricotta salata and herb salsa,” he said. “It’s absolutely delicious. But the crowd favourite has to be the lamb – that one’s already winning people over.”
The drinks list is equally thoughtful, built around the prestige of Hunter Valley wines, including Usher Tinkler, Vinden and Hungerford Hill. For Reece, it’s the region’s grapes that steal the show.
“If I can be cheeky, I’d say my favourite ingredient is actually the grapes in our wines. I love Hunter wines, nothing beats them in my eyes, and they pair perfectly with our dinner menu.”
A dining destination in Maitland
The shift into evenings also positions ACACIA as a true destination restaurant. While Newcastle diners are spoilt for choice, Reece believes ACACIA offers something different.
“Our focus has always been on the local community, but I think ACACIA offers something unique compared to other dining options around. It’s a beautiful venue that works just as well for a casual midweek dinner as it does for a special occasion.”
And if you’re making a whole night of it? Reece has a tip.
“I’d suggest starting with dinner and drinks at ACACIA Dining. Sitting on the Levee overlooking the Hunter River is such a lovely spot at sunset. After that, check out some of the great local bars – my favourites are The Pourhouse and The Metropolitan in Maitland.”
By day and night
The launch cements ACACIA’S dual identity – ACACIA by Day continues to serve indulgent breakfasts like Rhubarb Custard French Toast and standout lunches such as the Prawn Katsu Sando, while ACACIA by Night transforms the venue into a refined dinner destination.
Throughout it all, the restaurant remains deeply connected to its roots, working closely with producers such as Alderley Creek Eggs, Lady Blackbird Bakery, Floozy Coffee, Earth Market Maitland and Lorn Butchery.
“It’s important to me that our menus not only taste incredible but also showcase the producers who make this community so unique,” said Reece. “Our new night-time experience is built on those same values -honest, modern dining underpinned by strong local ties.”
ACACIA Dining is now open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
