In 2024 and 2025 Ask Roz Blue Mountains asked its followers to first nominate their favourite cafes. That list of 93 nominations was then put out for followers to vote for their favourite. In 2025 there was over 7,000 votes recorded with the Megalong Valley Tearooms voted the most popular for the 2nd year in a row.
Nestled in the heart of the Megalong Valley, just a 15-minute winding drive from Blackheath in New South Wales’ Blue Mountains, the Megalong Valley Tearooms is a destination that feels like stepping into a postcard. Here: w3w.co/thereby.midnight.touches.
The journey itself is half the charm—Megalong Road twists through a lush rainforest of towering eucalypts and giant tree ferns, descending into a serene valley framed by dramatic sandstone escarpments. As you arrive at 824 Megalong Road, the tearooms emerge like a cozy oasis amidst rolling farmland and rugged bushland, offering sweeping views that stretch toward the cliffs. It’s a setting that feels both timeless and quintessentially Australian, a perfect pitstop for travellers exploring the Blue Mountains.
The ambience here is warm and inviting, blending rustic charm with a touch of nostalgia. Inside, the tearooms feature timber floorboards and a snug log fire that crackles on cooler days, creating a homely atmosphere that’s hard to resist. The décor is simple yet thoughtful, with new lampshades, curtains, and tablecloths designed by local talent Julie Patterson adding a fresh, contemporary flair to the historic space. Outside, a sprawling garden offers ample seating, surrounded by grazing horses and cattle—an idyllic spot for families or anyone craving a moment of tranquillity. The tearooms’ location, just a short drive from Blackheath and roughly 25 minutes from Katoomba makes it accessible yet far enough removed from the busier tourist hubs to feel like a hidden retreat.
The food at Megalong Valley Tearooms is a celebration of hearty, modern Australian cuisine with a nod to its heritage as one of the region’s original tea houses. Established in 1956, the menu proudly showcases its signature offerings: the “original 1956 apple pie” and homemade scones served with jam and cream as part of their renowned Devonshire tea. These classics are a drawcard, and for good reason—the apple pie is a warm, buttery delight with a perfectly flaky crust, while the scones are light, fluffy, and generously portioned. Beyond these staples, the all-day menu caters to a range of appetites, from the “Mega-long” breakfast (featuring sausage, eggs, bacon, roast tomato, and mushrooms on sourdough) to toasties, seasonal pot pies (like chicken, mushroom, and white wine or chunky beef burgundy), and lighter options like soups and salads. The presentation is straightforward but appealing, with an emphasis on generous portions and fresh, comforting flavours. Coffee, sourced from boutique roasters, is a highlight, with creamy flat whites earning frequent praise from visitors.
Patrons often rave about the “beautiful setting” and “delicious food,” with many highlighting the apple pie and scones as must-tries. One visitor enthused, “The toasties were packed with fillings and perfectly toasted,” while another praised the “eggs Florentine” as “sensational.” The garden and pet-friendly outdoor seating are also frequently mentioned as bonuses, especially for families and dog owners. However, some critiques emerge—certain reviews note that service can be slow during peak hours, with one disgruntled customer describing it as a “clip joint” with “rubbish food” and indifferent staff. While this seems an outlier, it’s worth noting that the tearooms can get busy, particularly on weekends, which may stretch the small team thin. Overall, the consensus leans heavily positive, with most visitors charmed by the food, views, and relaxed vibe.
The tearooms make several notable claims that add to their allure. They tout their status as a historic venue, serving the same apple pie recipe for nearly 70 years—a claim that holds up beautifully, as the pie’s quality and consistency are evident in every bite. They also emphasize their use of “home-style country fare,” which aligns with the menu’s focus on fresh, hearty dishes made with care. The tearooms are fully licensed, offering a selection of wines and beers (including options from local vineyards), and they host a weekly Lot 101 Farmgate Market on Saturdays, selling fresh produce grown next door. While there’s no explicit claim of “sustainably sourced ingredients,” the proximity of the farmgate produce suggests a commitment to local, fresh goods. The coffee is billed as exceptional, and it lives up to the hype, with rich, well-balanced flavours that rival any city café.
2024 Best Cafe
In summary, Megalong Valley Tearooms is a delightful escape that combines stunning scenery, comforting food, and a touch of history. It’s best suited for families seeking a relaxed outing with space for kids to roam, couples looking for a scenic day trip, or solo travellers craving a peaceful coffee stop. Bushwalkers and Blue Mountains explorers will also find it an ideal refuelling spot after a morning of adventure. While it may not cater to those seeking gourmet complexity or lightning-fast service, its charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity. Whether you’re savouring a scone in the garden or warming up by the fire with a slice of apple pie, this tearoom offers a taste of the Blue Mountains that’s hard to forget.
Open 7 days a week 9am – 3pm, offering takeaway afternoon tea from 2:30 – 3pm. Group bookings are available mon-fri for groups 10+ only ♥️