Bistro Penny expands Newcastle dining with renovated upstairs space

Bistro Penny, a French-inspired restaurant in Newcastle, has officially launched its renovated upstairs space. The expansion follows the establishment receiving a Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide chef's hat in February 2025.

The new upstairs area, which features a grand timber staircase, is designed to accommodate functions, special events, and large group bookings ranging from 16 to 50 people. The renovation involved polishing beams, updating window architraves, and installing luxurious carpeting to create what owner Wong described as ‘a richer experience’.

The launch event featured Symphonia Wines, a Victorian King Valley winery owned by Novocastrians Suzanne and Peter Evans. The partnership aims to highlight a French-Australian culinary narrative through their wine selection.