PESCARA Where Italian Tradition Meets Hunter Valley Magic
- Your Hunter Valley Magazine
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
Amongst the rolling vineyards of Pokolbin at the picturesque Hermitage Lodge, Pescara Restaurant tells a story of love, tradition, and the pursuit of culinary authenticity.
Co-owners Nicole Panetta and Executive Chef Kelvin Foster have created more than just a dining destination – they've built a bridge between the sun-soaked Italian coastline and the heart of Australia's wine country.
The journey to Pescara began with a beloved establishment in Mosman, where DC's restaurant earned five-star reviews and a devoted clientele over the course of more than a decade. When redevelopment forced their hand, Nicole and Kelvin saw an opportunity rather than an ending. The Hunter Valley beckoned with its promise of space, tranquillity, and a community that would embrace their vision of simple, seasonal, and soul-warming Italian cuisine.
Named after the coastal town on Italy's Adriatic shore, Pescara embodies the philosophy that the best dishes are born from simplicity and heart.
"Our dishes are a genuine reflection of us - fresh, uncomplicated, and heartfelt," explains Nicole, whose Italian heritage runs deep through every plate that leaves the kitchen.
The restaurant's commitment to authenticity shines through in its signature dishes, which have become local legends. The Impanato showcases a perfectly executed crumbed pork cutlet crowned with rocket, tomatoes, and parmesan, while the Vitello Limone presents tender veal scaloppine dancing with potato in a bright lemon, caper, and leek sauce. For seafood enthusiasts, the butterflied and baked Scampi, finished with a delicate lemon, garlic, and butter drizzle, transports diners directly to the Italian coast.
Perhaps nowhere is Pescara's dedication to craft more evident than in their house-made specialties. The pillowy gnocchi, pan-seared and accompanied by spicy Calabrese salami, pancetta, and spinach, showcases the kitchen's artisanal approach. Meanwhile, the delicate spaghettini with Australian blue-swimmer crab meat, chilli, garlic, and white wine demonstrates their mastery of marrying Italian tradition with local ingredients.
Adjacent to the main dining room, Bar Pescara elevates the experience beyond mere sustenance.
"At Pescara, our bar is more than just a prelude to dinner. It's where drinks mingle with small bites, and conversations bloom," says Nicole.
The bar menu tempts with offerings like cacciatore salami served with fresh bread, saffron arancini accompanied by aioli, and premium Cantabrian anchovy fillets dressed with extra virgin olive oil and bread crisps.
Operating from Thursday to Monday for dinner and with lunch service on weekends, Pescara welcomes guests to experience what they call "fresh, simple, neighbourhood Italian" dining.
Whether you're seeking an intimate dinner with vineyard views, a family celebration, or simply an aperitivo hour where conversations flow as freely as the wine, Pescara offers an authentic Italian experience that feels both worldly and wonderfully local.
In the heart of wine country, where tradition meets innovation and passion meets plate, Pescara stands as a testament to the enduring power of simple, honest food prepared with love. Book now at www.pescara.com.au.
