Restaurant
Mr Watkins Bar
467 High St, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia
Find Mr Watkins Bar
467 High St, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia
Directions ↗*Opening hours may differ during holidays.
Book NowAbout Mr Watkins Bar
An unassuming High Street espresso counter conceals a moody lounge where daytime brunch transforms into evening cocktails. Behind the entryway doors, vintage Chesterfield sofas and book-lined corners offer an easy retreat from Penrith's bustle. Morning patrons drop in for made-to-order hollandaise brekkie and fresh coffee before the kitchen rolls out savory toasted bread pies stuffed with Philly cheesesteak or chicken salsa verde. As day shifts to night, the bar takes over with bespoke cocktails, craft pours, and char-grilled corn ribs.
- Hidden Speakeasy Layout: A narrow front coffee counter opens into a hidden back lounge fitted with vintage Chesterfield sofas and eclectic decor.
- House Bread Pies: Savory pies baked in toasted bread casings rather than pastry, packed with fillings like mac and cheese or Philly cheesesteak.
- Day-to-Night Switch: Pours specialty morning coffee and eggs before switching gears into an evening bar with cocktails and shared plates.
What's On at Mr Watkins Bar
Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.
No events or specials listed right now.
Why Guests Choose Mr Watkins Bar
A hidden speakeasy lounge, versatile day-to-night hospitality, and effortless private celebrations in Penrith
All-Day Versatility from Morning Brekkie to Evening Dining
Operating seamlessly across all dayparts, Mr Watkins delivers high-quality dining and beverage options from morning breakfast to dinner and late-night drinks.
Truly outstanding spot for brekkie, lunch or dinner.
Ernie Kim Seamless Transition from Daytime Cafe to Evening Bar
Patrons visiting for daytime cafe service can return after dark to experience a vibrant evening bar atmosphere with craft cocktails.
Definitely want to come to this place again in the night because they also double as a bar.
John Pereira Hidden Speakeasy Lounge Concealed Behind the Counter
Beyond the unassuming streetfront coffee counter lies an expansive lounge with plush Chesterfield sofas where patrons unwind away from the high street.
the cafe and lounge area is secluded away behind the doors
Jandy Van Quirky Retro Decor and Steampunk Ambiance
The interior pairs vintage furnishings, eclectic curiosities, and a distinctive retro aesthetic that transports guests away from ordinary cafe spaces.
It's like a cross between an retro speakeasy, a steampunk library and a funky bar.
Holly Corpe Effortless Milestone Celebrations and Private Gatherings
Dedicated coordinators and flexible packages remove the logistical stress of hosting milestone private functions, from anniversaries to themed parties.
The venue just fits any vibe you’re going for and makes hosting genuinely stress-free.
Jemma Buerckner Seamless Large-Group Event Execution and Hospitality
Attentive event planning and prompt communication ensure corporate functions and large group gatherings run smoothly with high-caliber hospitality.
The night ran smoothly and the food and hospitality was top notch
Michael Costa
Most popular items
Signature morning favorites and house-baked bread pies
Philly bread pie
Between us we had the chicken sandwich, philly bread pie and hollandaise eggs, and all were absolutely delicious
Tracey B Hollandaise brekky with smoked salmon
I visited with my son and we both ordered the Hollandaise brekky with smoked salmon — it was absolutely delicious. You can really taste the difference, especially knowing the hollandaise sauce is made fresh to order.
Nichole Carlson Mac n cheese bread pie
I had a mac n cheese bread pie, which was nicely filled, with a great cheese sauce.
Lauren Baker Breakky burger
My husband got the breakky burger & I got the eggs your way and I just can’t believe how delicious it was.
Courtney Lamb
Other favorites
Pastries, starters, and house-crafted beverages to complement your visit
Ham and cheese croissant
I got the ham and cheese croissant, which was so buttery (😋), with thick slices of ham.
Maria Kinnesais Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffin
Went for a coffee, and had a Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffin, delicious, and would definitely return for a Coffee.
Michael & Wendy Beasy Polenta bites
I can highly recommend the polenta bites starter and the pork belly main course.
Holly Corpe Home brewed masala chai
The waitress recommended their home brewed masala chai, and it was beautiful.
Maria Kinnesais
Beyond the menu
Thoughtful gestures and vintage details that elevate everyday visits
Personal Table Visit with Dairy-Free Treats
When notified of a guest's lactose intolerance during a banquet, one of the chefs personally visited the table to present complimentary dairy-free chocolates since banquet desserts contained cream.
Hollandaise Made Fresh to Order
Breakfast hollandaise is whipped fresh to order rather than pre-held, delivering a noticeably richer, balanced accompaniment for dishes like the smoked salmon brekky.
Plush Chesterfield Lounge Respite
Guests are invited to sink into plush, vintage leather Chesterfield lounges nestled past the unassuming front counter, offering a restful haven for tired legs and relaxing with children.
Repurposed Antique Sewing Machine Footrests
Tables incorporate repurposed antique Singer sewing machine bases, giving diners vintage iron footrests to lean on while having a coffee or meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there sit-down dining beyond the front coffee counter?
From the street, Mr Watkins looks like a small coffee shop front, but walking through the doors reveals a secluded dining room and lounge with comfortable Chesterfield sofas.
What is a bread pie?
Yes. Mr Watkins offers bread pies baked with bread crust instead of pastry, featuring fillings such as mac and cheese, chicken salsa verde, and Philly cheesesteak.
Can you make a reservation for dinner or group dining?
The venue is reservable online and accommodates table bookings, group banquets, and private events, though walk-ins can also grab seats at the bar or dining room when space permits.
Does the menu cater to specific dietary requirements?
The kitchen offers a variety of clearly marked gluten-free options on the menu, as well as dairy-free accommodations upon request. Note that meats are not halal-certified.
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