Norma Joan
A charming wine and cocktail bar offering Modern Australian share plates inspired by nostalgic comfort food, with a focus on local produce and warm ho...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Norma Joan
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming wine and cocktail bar offering Modern Australian share plates inspired by nostalgic comfort food, with a focus on local produce and warm hospitality.
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to Norma Joan's popularity.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the Anchovy Toast or Grandma's Golden Syrup dumplings for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Modern Australian
Price
$$$
Phone
+61 480 667 627
Address
Shop 4/142 William St, Bathurst NSW 2795, Australia
Website
normajoanbathurst.com.au/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grandmotherly Comfort with a Fine Dining Twist
Nostalgic dishes inspired by grandma's recipes, elevated with contemporary fine dining techniques for a unique taste experience.
Warm Hospitality and Memorable Experiences
Chef Michael Madden's genuine warmth and passion create a welcoming atmosphere, making every guest feel like family.
Creative Cocktails and Local Flavors
Indulge in expertly crafted cocktails made with local spirits, complementing a menu that celebrates high-quality, seasonal produce.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to Norma Joan's popularity.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the Anchovy Toast or Grandma's Golden Syrup dumplings for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Support Local F&B
Visit on Mondays & Tuesdays to support other local venues; Norma Joan is open to accommodate this.
Explore Regional Wines
Discover a diverse regional wine list, perfectly paired with local beers on tap.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended due to Norma Joan's popularity.
Try Signature Dishes
Don't miss the Anchovy Toast or Grandma's Golden Syrup dumplings for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Support Local F&B
Visit on Mondays & Tuesdays to support other local venues; Norma Joan is open to accommodate this.
Explore Regional Wines
Discover a diverse regional wine list, perfectly paired with local beers on tap.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about Norma Joan's inventive yet comforting Modern Australian cuisine, highlighting the warm hospitality of Chef Michael Madden and the creative cocktails. The cozy atmosphere and focus on local produce are consistent positives, though some note it's not the place for a quick, hearty meal and can be a bit pricey.
"This restaurant/ bar has it all. The menu is inspired by grandmotherly comfort yet infused with a contemporary fine dining twist, it’s both nostalgic and inventive. Each dish feels like a nod to nanna’s secret recipes, elevated to the finest dining experience.
We ordered an array of different dishes, each equally as enjoyable. The atmosphere is incredible and the cocktails are a vibe.
The owner/ host is an absolute legend. He welcomes you like family, guiding you through the evening with a genuine warmth and passion, going above and beyond to create a memorable experience for everyone.
Overall, this is a 10 out of 10. It’s a This is a must-visit, one of the very best this town has."
Amy Vickers
"Wonderful fresh locally sourced food and wines. Creative cocktail and food menu. Beautiful outdoor seating area. We had an amazing first night out in Bathurst. Highly recommend the Morton Bay bugs and the steak"
Skye Lewis
"Really good all round well done Norma Joan :) a lovely shining star in beautiful Bathurst. A gorgeous spring afternoon, high class food and a relaxed atmosphere with prompt well informed service.
Sure, it isn’t the place if you are starving and need a huge burger asap- it’s more of a delightful, special, cobbled courtyard with little tables and succinct, well done small dishes and excellent cocktails, happy staff and it’s somewhere to bring your special someone (or a table of special someone’s). Love the happy hour prices with wines and beers and love that the music on Father’s Day was soft and gentle. Well done all round. Great service by Michael and all staff. All dishes were very well done, sauces especially good and smooth- well done chef. The desert- Norma jones dumplings were sooooo lovely it transported us back to our grandmas suet pudding!"
Emma Johnson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is highly recommended to make reservations in advance as Norma Joan is very popular and can get busy.
Guests highly recommend trying the Anchovy Toast and the Grandmothers recipe Golden Syrup dumplings.
Norma Joan offers a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, with options for alfresco, mezzanine, or lounge dining.
The menu is seasonal and emphasizes local produce, suggesting that vegetarian and potentially vegan options are available, though specific details are not provided.
Norma Joan features a regional wine list, creative cocktails made with local spirits, and locally brewed beers on tap.
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Featured in these publications
Bathurst Archives - Best Shopping
Norma Joan is a regionally focused wine and cocktail bar with amazing Modern Australian share plates. Tucked away inside a leafy courtyard, Norma Joan has alfresco, mezzanine, or lounge dining. With a completely regional wine list, cocktails made with local spirits, locally brewed beers on tap and ever-evolving seasonal menu, every experience at Norma Joan will be unique and enjoyable.
12 Of The Tastiest Bathurst Restaurants
Norma Joan is a hidden treasure in Bathurst, with cosy indoor seating and a courtyard that’s perfect for a warm weather evening. The share plates are simple but packed with flavour and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The atmosphere is classy but relaxed, and the staff are friendly and attentive – making for a cruisy dining experience.
Taste Bathurst - Be operator post draft
Norma Joan is a wine bar offering contemporary share plates with family and friends whilst enjoying our range of specialty local wines, beers and cocktails. Relax upstairs in our mezzanine level or dine alfresco in …
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit