The Royal Crown at Dudley is introducing a new winter menu on July 13 and it looks the goods. Use this American BBQ Platter as an example, which can be prepared for two or four people: eight-hour smoked beef cheeks; four-hour smoked lamb ribs; 10-hour smoked pulled pork; buttermilk wings; onion rings; Texas-style beans; slaw; house-made barbecue sauce, focaccia bread and pickles; plus smoked whipped butter. Wow.

Yellow Billy Restaurant at Pokolbin has a new banquet menu and it's Italian: think smoked tomato tapenade with bocconcini and mortadella; spatchcock with ricotta and nutmeg stuffing; and a wood-roasted suckling pig. Do yourselves a favour and book ahead.

The Steakhouse Wallsend is opening at Wallsend Diggers on July 17 and will be offering premium steaks, ribs, chicken and seafood, all cooked in an American smoker and finished in the flame grill. It's open Thursday to Sunday from 5.30pm.

The Cambridge Hotel is re-opening next Tuesday, July 14, and with it, Lost Boys Kebab. Scotties head chef Joel Humphreys is involved, which means this will not be your garden variety kebab offering. You can find Lost Boys Kebab in the front bar area Tuesday to Saturday, 11am to 3pm, and 5pm until late.

Adam's Ribs & Pizza at Adamstown has reverted to its original format as takeaway with seating "due to the uncertainty regarding COVID restrictions". Pop in and show Mark and Annette some support.

Barrio 2304 at Mayfield is unfortunately closing its doors on July 20 after 10 years, much to the dismay of locals and regulars. The good news is, Roy's Kitchen & Catering is taking over the restaurant space.