The Sunnyside Tavern, Broadmeadow

We booked because it was near the entertainment centre. Before the show we ordered dinner and were warned there'd be a wait because they were busy. The meal arrived within the time they gave us, and the food and service were great. I had the grilled chicken caesar salad, and my hubby ordered the Sunny Works burger. Our upstairs room with an ensuite was clean and suited what we needed for the night. We'd happily stay again overnight and definitely eat at the bistro again.

The food was fabulous and the staff were friendly, and it’s a classy, well-run pub. But the loud, pointless head-banging music follows you through the building and really spoils dining. It’s hard to hold a conversation, and anyone hoping for a quiet, relaxing meal will be disappointed.

After going to the Sunny Side for over 20 years, it’s sad to see how far it’s fallen. It used to be known as one of Newcastle’s top pubs, but now it feels like a filthy, run-down dive. The bathrooms stink, nothing seems to have been fixed in about 20 years, and the service is terrible. The food was awful too. We waited an hour for a steak that was burnt to a crisp, and it was the smallest $44 steak I’ve ever been served. My wife’s squid tasted off, and neither of us finished the overpriced food. Even the bartender couldn’t pour a beer properly. The Monday two-for-one deal only gets you free garlic bread. When I complained about the meal, they threw me out. It felt like they didn’t want anyone else to hear how much of a rip-off it was. All round, bad service for top-dollar prices. Don’t bother if you want a good meal and a beer. Any reviews here saying otherwise must be bots or employees trying to cover up how bad the place is.

The location is great, the staff are really friendly, and the meals are always good. There’s a great variety and the prices are reasonable. Love this pub.