Grapes and diverse eateries are stealing the show in Orange.

Orange was famous for apples – until grapes and diverse eateries came along to steal the show, writes

LUNCH

Racine Shaun Arantz serves sophisticated fare in what looks like a humble corrugated-iron shed. His eye for colour turns the likes of pressed duck with beetroot, rhubarb and granola into Pop art on a plate. An apple symbol on the menu indicates at least 75 per cent of the dish is sourced locally. 42 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale, Orange, (02) 6365 3275, racinerestaurant.com.au

ROASTS

Charred Kitchen & Bar This eatery off the main thoroughfare specialises in slow-roasted deliciousness. Hearty dishes such as lamb rump and falafel, chicken with Sichuan sauce, and carrots with almonds and sumac emerge from a wood oven named Lucifer that was custom-made in Bathurst. 1-5 New St, Orange, (02) 6363 1580, charred.com.au

BREAKFAST

Byng Street Local Store Start the day with salmon, potato and dill croquettes with smoked salmon and rocket salad, or The Halfway Hipster: poached eggs with crushed chickpeas, braised greens, capsicum jam and crisp flatbread. 47 Byng St, Orange, (02) 6369 0768, byngstreet.com.au

PRODUCE

The Agrestic Grocer This month cherries, stonefruit, heirloom carrots and eggplants (and perhaps early season figs) will line the shelves of this stylish grocer and café that also serves as a cellar door for the on-site Badlands Brewery, which has used local hazelnuts and black truffles in its brews. 426 Molong Rd, Orange, (02) 6360 4604

WINE

Philip Shaw Wines An old bluestone farm building on the property inspired the photogenic cellar door at this well-known Mount Canobolas vineyard. Team a wine tasting with a cheeseboard of double brie from the Second Mouse Cheese Co, homemade lavosh, marinated olives, roasted walnuts, pears, apples and grapes. 100 Shiralee Rd, Orange, (02) 6362 0710, philipshaw.com.au ●