The expansion of @ The Coalface NSW is very exciting. Not only does this mean we are reaching a larger audience, but also brings new opportunities to visit different towns and try new foods.

One such particular adventure took us way out West to the beautiful town of Mudgee, where we found a true Italian gem, Isabella’s Trattoria.

For those that don’t know a Trattoria is an Italian-style eating establishment that is generally much less formal than a ristorante (Full Service Restaurant), but more formal than an osteria (Tavern).

Isabella’s Trattoria on Market Street, Mudgee has been proudly serving authentic Italian cuisine for 24 years, bringing traditional Italian meals to the people and visitors of Mudgee.

Booking is recommended for this popular Trattoria and after having done so, we took a seat in the beautifully decorated restaurant, with fairy lights and Italian prints and photos adorning the walls.

A unique effect of Isabella’s Trattoria is the semi open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant decorated to look like a street market with an awning. A truly beautiful and stylish result.

After browsing the extensive menu and thirsty for a drink we decided upon the Tropical Sunrise, which was a mixture of fruit juices, lemonade and a splash of grenadine, a really refreshing drink.

For entrée we were tempted to try the Garlic bread, but we decided upon the Tomato Bruschetta, warm toasted ciabatta bread with a crunchy crust, topped with ripe tomato and fresh basil, drizzled over with olive oil. This was scrumptious and one of the better bruschetta’s I’ve tried.

For mains I was very tempted to try the spaghetti and meatballs, but I couldn’t resist trying the Glazed Pork Ribs and Meatballs, a big plate of slow cooked pork ribs served with Italian meatballs and chips this was absolutely fantastic and I’m glad that is what I picked. The spaghetti and meatballs would just have to wait for my next visit to the beautiful town of Mudgee.

My partner was tempted by the Chicken Parmigiana, but ultimately decided upon a dish called Saporite, Which was penne pasta, served in a creamy tomato sauce, with prawns, bacon and mushrooms, she said it was very filling and delicious.

For dessert we had a choice of Lemon Meringue or Tiramisu, and not being fans of coffee, the Lemon Meringue won the toss and we were glad it did, as it was amazing, served with whipped cream and ice cream and garnished with a strawberry, then dusted over with coco powder, the meringue was light and fluffy.

All up a beautiful meal, in a beautiful restaurant, in a beautiful town. Whether you’re a Mudgee local or not, it’s well recommended to visit Isabella’s Trattoria for a taste of Italy and a stunning meal.