Babbingtons is a great choice when dining out in Newcastle. The dining is easy and the setting is lovely: the dining room has floor to ceiling glass windows which look out onto natural bush surrounds, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Part of the Best Western Hotel in Charlestown, the kitchen ensures there is plenty of variety on both the breakfast and dinner menus which is most pleasing for visitors staying for a few nights. The cuisine is modern Australian, so expect Mediterranean flavours with tinges of Asia here and there. Seared scallops, tempura soft shell crab and zucchini flowers are all on order for entree with fillets of beef, pork belly or confit of duck in delicious hearty sauces available for mains. The kitchen changes the menu from season to season and accommodates special dietary needs when possible. The floor staff are friendly and attentive and there is a good wine list of tasty Australian varieties and good beer and ciders are also available. Babbingtons is a surprise and a delight for lovers of good food and wine.