Iron Gate Kitchen to open Thursday, 15 May 2025
Iron Gate Kitchen, helmed by Executive Chef Joey Ingram, will open its doors within a fortnight.
Wednesday, 30 April 2025 – Iron Gate Estate, nestled in the historic Pokolbin region and renowned for its iconic Spanish-style winery and cellar door will open the doors of Iron Gate Kitchen for its first lunch service on Thursday, 15 May.
With a focus on fresh, seasonal produce and bold Iberian flavours, Executive Chef Joey Ingram’s relaxed, rustic approach to Mediterranean cuisine is made for sun-drenched dining, heavily influenced by the elements of wood, smoke, fire and the grill.
The opening menu follows the Mediterranean tradition, where dishes are designed to share encouraging guests to slow down and savour the afternoon. This progressive style dining invites guests to linger a little longer – especially when the custom-made cheese cart rolls by, offering Spanish cheese such as Cueva de Campillo and Garrotx tableside.
To start, Gildas, salt cod croquettes, and Basque-inspired beef tartare crackers set the tone. Wood-fired flatbreads follow, generously topped with combinations like nduja, burrata and basil. From the charcoal oven comes lamb shoulder topped with salsa verde and sizzling garlic prawns, served with classic sides like patatas bravas, crispy fried corn ribs, and a rotating selection of charcutería to round out the afternoon.
No Spanish menu is complete without dessert, and Iron Gate Kitchen delivers with a rich Burnt Basque cheesecake and a citrus-infused crema Catalana, finished with a perfectly caramelised top.
Executive Chef, Joey Ingram: “I’m all about food that’s vibrant, generous, and full of character. At Iron Gate Kitchen, we’re celebrating amazing local produce with bold, flavour-filled dishes made to share. Whether it’s smoky grilled seafood, house-made flatbreads or a slice of burnt Basque cheesecake, it’s all about flavour, texture, and bringing people in the Hunter Valley together.”
Ingram is joined by Head Chef, Lara Hagan and General Manager Harrison Plant.
Iron Gate Kitchen’s private dining room is designed to comfortably sit 22 and is available for exclusive use, whether it be for milestone occasions or corporate-style dining.
The architecturally designed extension to the existing cellar door was led by Emilie Delalande of Etic, most recently known for Housemade Hospitality's Island Radio. Delalande worked closely with the Iron Gate Estate team to bring this Spanish-inspired vision to life.
Iron Gate Kitchen Lunch | The restaurant will offer daytime al fresco dining, serving lunch until 4:00pm from Tuesday to Sunday. The Gatekeepers set menu, designed for groups and easy ordering is priced at $79 per person.
Iron Gate Kitchen Breakfast | From Tuesday, 20 May breakfast will be served from 7:30am – 11:00am, Tuesday – Friday and from 7:30am – 11:30am Saturday and Sunday.
Iron Gate Kitchen ‘Olé!’ Fridays | On Friday evenings, the Estate will truly embrace the ‘fiesta’ spirit with a set tasting menu paired with complimentary Estate wines and live entertainment with a Spanish feel. The first of these evenings kicks off on Friday, 23 May from 5:30pm.
About Iron Gate Estate
Nestled in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Iron Gate Estate is a premier winery and cellar door offering a true taste of the region's renowned wine culture. With breathtaking views and a rich history, the estate is a celebrated destination for wine enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of premium wines.
Guests can now enjoy tastings at the Moorish inspired cellar door, whilst grazing on a tapa menu along with the chance to experience the estate's exquisite portfolio crafted by head winemaker Geoff Broadfield, who has been making wines in the Valley of over 40 years.
Iron Gate Estate is home to Iron Gate Kitchen, offering seating for up to 130 guests across bright indoor, al-fresco and salon prive options. This exciting new dining space will showcase a Mediterranean-inspired menu led by Executive Chef Joey Ingram, delivering a dining experience that highlights the best of the Hunter Valley’s seasonal produce.
Iron Gate Estate also features a traditional Tuscan villa available for overnight stays, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the serenity and beauty of the region.
