Food writer Lisa Rockman surveys what's hot in the local environment - like vegan dishes and Asian flavours, while contributing writer Judith Whitfield tackles the subject of what's on the breakfast menu.

Jade Lazarevic addresses two hefty subjects: competitive eaters in Newcastle, and a list of 100 Happy Hours in the Hunter.

Alex Morris goes deep into conversation with local coffee roasters and retailers about sustainability, while Daniel Honan takes readers on a tour of winemaker Ian Scarborough's very private wine cellar on the outskirts of Pokolbin.

Josh Leeson tells readers what they are missing if they haven't tried the Carolina Reaper chilli side offered at Susuru ramen restaurant.

Wine writer John Lewis offers up six wine and food matches worth trying, like a chicken schnitzel with tabouli salad matched with an Usher Tinkler 2019 9th Fable Chardonnay.

Popular Weekender columnists Joanne McCarthy and Simon Walker buy into the food theme as well.

And, we revisit 44 dining reviews from the past year, from Bocados to Subo, Scotties to Fratelli Roma, Wil & Sons to Roy's Kitchen. The reviews include newcomers (and remakes) Bannisters, Bella Italia, Bao Brothers After Dark, Flotilla, The Edwards, Edmonds & Co, Meet, Milky Lane, Humble Thai, Ginger Megs, The Wood and Zaffran.