Mr Watkins Bar

561 reviews

467 High St, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia

www.mrwatkins.com.au

+61247080605

About

Mr Watkins Bar is a Bar located at 467 High St, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia. It has received 561 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday7AM-3PM
Tuesday7AM-3PM
Wednesday7AM-3PM
Thursday8AM-4PM
Friday8AM-2PM
Saturday6AM-4PM
Sunday6AM-4PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Mr Watkins Bar: 467 High St, Penrith NSW 2750, Australia

  • Mr Watkins Bar has 4.6 stars from 561 reviews

  • Bar

  • "If there's two things Penrith needed more of, it was good coffee and a cocktail bar that serves legitimate cocktails"

    "My girlfriends and I made a booking a week prior to our dinner"

    "This review is for the cafe during the day time"

    "For full transparency"

    "When was the last time someone raved about a chicken sandwich? Not recently, yeah? Chicken sandwiches are generally enjoyably but not memorable"

Reviews

  • David Lopez

If there's two things Penrith needed more of, it was good coffee and a cocktail bar that serves legitimate cocktails. Amazingly, someone decided it was a good idea to combine both and they hit the nail on the head in every aspect. During the week, Mr Watkins is your neighbourhood coffee shop that serves up some really nice and unique dishes with some of the old favourites. As skeptical as I was for something called a "Bread Pie" and I couldn't have been happier with my choice. The coffee was spot on, which is surprisingly a difficult thing to find these days. Not to sound snobbish (ok, well a little) but there's a difference between a cappuccino and a flat white and these guys know it. Overall a fantastic breakfast option if you can get there. Friday to Sunday night roll around and they open up the bar out the back and this is where the magic happens. Per the theme, the menus are converted novels (don't worry, it's as easy to read as plain paper) with a great selection of cocktails and spirits. These are the real deal, not the vodka spiked cordial you'd get from most other bars. We've ordered several of the cocktails and each one has been made so well, I've even enjoyed ones with bases I usually don't go for. Careful though, they really don't dilute the drinks and they go down pretty easy. Cocktails not your thing? No worries, there's a beers on tap and a good choice of wine available by the glass or bottle (to share, of course). The staff are really easy going, day and night, and make a point of ensuring you're being looked after. Whenever they get a moment, they're always happy to chat and never condescending if you don't know what you're looking at. With a great atmosphere and decor that has to be seen to be appreciated (it's pretty great), you'll be hard-pressed to find a reason not to drop by and spend a morning or evening here. My hat is off to the owners for taking an unknown shopfront to a go-to bar in the span of a few months. Very well deserved and I thoroughly recommend the place to just about anyone.

  • Gwen Strick

My girlfriends and I made a booking a week prior to our dinner. We were having a girls night out and long needed catch up. Our booking was made for 6.30pm. Upon arrival we were told that we had to vacate the table by 8pm. This was NOT made clear to us on the phone when we made the booking. My girlfriends and I were planning on having cocktails and dinner without being rushed out of our table and when we made this clear the hostess she was quite rude to us and said that we should have been told. We weren't. When we were ushered to our table we were given 3 bar stools and a tiny table shoved in the corner. I told the hostess that we were not happy with these arrangements, and given we had made our booking reasonably early we were quite disappointed. We decided not to eat there. I explained to her that whilst it wasn't her fault, I wasn't happy and I felt that this was not good service. I explained to her that I would like the name of a manager so that I could express my dissatisfaction to which she replied that there would be no point considering all of the correspondence was made through her. Whilst I understand that miscommunication happens I feel like we were treated quite poorly and our concerns were not heard. I can't speak to the food but I feel like if they are going to treat their customers in this manner then they should expect feedback that reflects the experiences of their customers.

  • Harrison Trippett

This review is for the cafe during the day time. The bar at night is quite enjoyable and a completely different vibe. The food is average and not what you would expect from a cafe. I ordered the eggs on toast (your choice of eggs) and when I asked for poached eggs, was informed that it was not available. I thought they were joking, considering it is a cafe, and poached eggs is a staple. However, I was informed this is not the case and the only eggs on offer are fried or scrambled. I believe this is not acceptable and when enquired why poached eggs are not available, I was informed that they did not have the equipment available. Last I checked a pot of water and gas stove was not specialist equipment only available in boutique restaurants. (Side note - I can see that they have a gas stove. If they don't have a pot capable of holding water I would be utterly shocked) Anyway, that is beside the point. If you are after a standard cafe menu with staples such as Eggs Benedict (made with poached eggs, mind you) you will not be able to get that here. Also noteworthy, the service is subpar and it feels like you are served when the waitress' want to serve you, rather than when you would like them too. There are many good options in Penrith for a cafe, just not here, you will be rolling the dice on good service and a decent menu

  • Chloe Berg

For full transparency.. I worked at Mr Watkins more than over a year ago. I am writing this review because they were AMAZING to work for and the Food and drinks were amazing. I had to stop working due to health issues but I would recommend them to EVERYONE. The chefs know what they are doing and the bar tenders know their stuff. I do not get out of the house much these days but if I were to leave for dinner and drinks this would be my go to .. if you want a cocktail to blow your Mind go for the drunken botanist ! You guys are the best x
Price per person
$60–80
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Chorizo Hotdog, Coffee and Tea, Kransky, Charcuterie Board, Cappuccino - Tara Special, Polenta Fries, Capuchino and Brownie, Chicken Sandwich, Mushroom Gnocchi, Karu Pav, Spaghetti Bolognese Bread Pie, Chicken Salsa Verde, Empty Cocktail Glass, Marinated Olives, Mr Watkins Breakfast, Toasted Banana Bread, Buffalo Chicken Wings Blue Cheese Sauce, Seasonal Greens Paprika Butter, Polenta Nuggets Chipotle Mayo
Vegetarian options
Many
Wheelchair accessibility
No stairs and easily can move chairs for space

  • Marco VonBlack

When was the last time someone raved about a chicken sandwich? Not recently, yeah? Chicken sandwiches are generally enjoyably but not memorable. I've not been able to stop thinking about the chicken sandwich from Mr Watkins. Couple this with the Mocha i had.......... Jesus. Proper tasty. But this chicken sandwich - i don't know what was going on with that thing, but it was heavenly. There's some voodoo going on with that tasty bread as well, as if it's marinated in garlic oil, but still crisp and fluffy. I can't describe the food in a way that will do it justice, so imma stop. The staff are all lovely, and the vibe is excellent. It's like an eccentric hunter's den and i'm jealous i don't actually live in this place. On my way out, the chef yelled goodbye from the kitchen and i was able to give my compliments. I don't think he'll ever understand how impressed i am, but i reckon he knows how bloody good the food is. I cannot speak highly enough of Mr Watkins. The only downside is once you eat there, you'll spend all your time thinking about the next time you'll be able to make it in and how unhappy you are with what you're currently eating.

  • Holly Corpe

Great experience! Loved the decor and the atmosphere. It's like a cross between an retro speakeasy, a steampunk library and a funky bar. Amazing vibe. We booked online for a Saturday night and even though we had a few accommodations, the staff were brilliant and able to sort out our booking with minimal fuss. We even ended up being early but we were seated quickly. The cocktail menu is wide ranging and very extensive. So many classics and new options that I've never seen. So fun. Definitely something for everyone. We had the banquet option for four people. It was good value and everything was delicious. I can highly recommend the polenta bites starter and the pork belly main course. That pork was so good. Also, when we told the staff that one of our group was lactose intolerant, one of the chefs came to our table to offer us some dairy free chocolates because the dessert options with the banquet contained cream. It was very thoughtful. There was excellent service all round! All the waitstaff were very friendly and super efficient. We could split our bill easily so it's great for groups. Amazing experience.

  • emma jurczyk

This place is absolutely incredible. The vibe is amazing so nice it’s a vibe with adults and not 18 year olds also no yobbos. The staff r fantastic not a bad word can be sad. It was mine and my husbands first night out since r daughter was born and also my birthday they made it extra special with a lovely surprise of a glass of champers on the house that little touch is why people go back to these places genuine place. I do think maybe the bill part it would be nice to add a tip, I would of liked to of tipped one lady she had dark hair and just come back from England she was so lovely and didn’t let r drink go low before asking do we want another one instead of waiting ages in some places. Also the lady at check in desk she was lovely too we had no cash so couldn’t leave a tip but if the option was on the machine when paying I would of left one. Will definitely be back when I can get another baby sitter or return with my girlfriends

  • Conor McNally

Mr Watkins has been on my must do list for quite a few years since it opened in 2017. Finally, I got to experience the delight that is the bar itself last night and it did not disappoint. The decor and atmosphere is a nice, eclectic mix, complimented by the outstanding staff who made sure you felt welcome from the moment you walked in. The different array of drinks were enticing and catered for every taste. My partner had the Karu Pash cocktail and I had a Two Birds Taco beer, which was tasty. And the food was outstanding. The highlight for us were the salmon tacos and the beef asado & chimchurri. We enjoyed it so much, we were left wanting more. We will be back to do it all again!

  • Kenji San (The Kenji Diaries)

You walk past this place and you're like "man... I bet that must be an interesting place". Sure enough it is. Great atmosphere and vibe. Enjoyed my coffee. Good place to chill and have a yarn. The dining area at the back - felt like one was on a movie set. Definitely enjoyed my coffee hang here. Having an eat here may be challenging as the meat is not halal sourced. But again, wins as a spot to have coffee for me.
Price per person
$1–20
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Dietary restrictions
Meat is not halal (as of mid-July 2023 - when I was there).
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking

  • Peter Minucos

The service here is always excellent; fast and friendly! Food is also very good and the price is fair for what you get. I'd definitely recommend eating here, especially for lunch.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Chicken Sandwich, Spaghetti Bolognese Bread Pie
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking
Wheelchair accessibility
This may be slightly tricky for some. It has a long narrowish passage and lip to get in. Staff are very friendly so they may be able to assist.

  • Rachael Robinson

My favourite bar to go too, never lets me down. Food both breakfast and dinner never disappoints and the service is absolutely spot on, honestly the staff are really amazing. Mother’s day breakfast was a surprise by my family as it’s my happy place and this was a very hard day for me as it was the first without my mum who had recently passed away. I’m not sure if the staff knew but they were kind and gentle with me as i was a tad fragile but also happy that my family (teenagers and all) thought to take me there as they knew it would be the perfect cheer me up that was needed. Well done

  • Keely Rose

The food, cocktails and overall experience here were excellent. The cocktails in particular were all fantastic, they've done a great job with the decor and the atmosphere is great. The service was excellent. The food was delicious, in particular the mixed green vegetables, we almost wished we had ordered 2. For two people we found that ordering one meat dish and the side greens was enough food for us, we didn't need the third dish we ordered. The only downside to this place is that it's very meaty and not a good option for vegetarians, I wouldn't bring vegetarian friends here.

  • Leslie Tully

I went to Mr Watkins, to get coffee this morning as our regular site at Theodores Cafe had a broken coffee machine. Hence the change. I didn't think the coffee was as good as our regular place. Other than that, the service was great and quite quick - but it would be interesting if we had been there as the rush started. I would like to go back and try the bar, looks interesting inside and has an open kitchen so you can see the chef working. If you liked my review give me a tick on the blue hand and help me improve my google local guide experience, please and thankyou...

  • Mc

I've been coming here for a couple of years, and without a doubt, I've consistently had exceptional experiences. The attentiveness and remarkable hospitality of this place are truly unparalleled. Every member of the staff goes above and beyond to accommodate guests, and the food and drinks never fail to impress. The ambience adds to the overall fantastic experience. I honestly can't think of a single thing to complain about. Keep up the outstanding work—you're undoubtedly the finest bar in Penrith. Cheers!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Katt Anne

Cool interior & atmosphere, awesome music being played plus the wait staff are friendly and helpful. The food is faultless, so many gluten free options, everything tastes amazing. The buffalo wings, corn ribs, peri peri chicken & beef asado are standouts. Resonably priced, one of the best places in Penrith for meals & drinks. Please dont ever close!
Price per person
$60–80
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Buffalo Chicken Wings Blue Cheese Sauce
Dietary restrictions
Gluten free

  • Daniel Khodaverdian

Great little coffee lounge/cafe/bar. Great coffee and well stocked bar in the back. Staff are friendly and highly efficient. The atmosphere is of an inner city coffee lounge in the front with an open boutique bar and restaurant in the back. The premise is very clean with good bathroom amenities. Very interestingly decorated with old books, beer cans, artworks and other trinkets. Food is great although the breakfast menu is quite limited. Well suited for 20, 30 somethings. Although kids are welcome it may not be the best option for them.

  • Ernie Kim

Truly outstanding spot for brekkie, lunch or dinner. I’ve enjoyed all 3x and the food and service has always been spot on. Penrith should consider themselves blessed to have amazing food served by such hospitable people like Wayne and Jess. If I lived locally, I would dine here once a week.
Price per person
$60–80
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Chicken Sandwich, Spaghetti Bolognese Bread Pie
Kid-friendliness
The venue offers high chairs for infants and toddlers.

  • Chloé Steward

Intimate, woody atmosphere. Talented bar staff who can make you a custom cocktail based on what you enjoy. Delicious food. Great place to come for a meal or just stop by for a drink. I could stay here for hours.
Price per person
$40–60
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Vegetarian options
Plenty of vegan/vegetarian options. Staff are always happy to make substitutions. Group dining made easy!
Dietary restrictions
Plenty of vegan/vegetarian options. Group dining made easy!

  • Samantha Greaves

Came here last night for a catch-up dinner with my best friend and had an absolute ball! We got the banquet menu, and if you’re thinking of adding the squid to that - it’s definitely worth it! Didn’t think squid could taste so tender and flavourful! Stars also included the butter chicken, pork hock, and blue cheese sauce with our chicken wings! We tried an array of cocktails which never disappointed, the staff were all very attentive and knowledgeable, can’t wait for my next visit to try the charcuterie board!

  • natalie cutcliffe

I took some staff there for drinks to see 2 of them off and to congratulate one on long service leave. The brief was snacks and drinks. So much food came out it was ridiculous and much of it didn’t get touched. I hate waste so this really put a dampener on my night not to mention a dent in the company credit card! I don’t leave google reviews ever but I really feel I wasn’t listened to when I expressed concerns over ordering too much. The next day I’m still reeling from it. Won’t be doing that again.

  • MATTHEW DAY

The food and service is amazing the music is good the coffee is great , the food is cooked perfectly and tastes so good
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Mr Watkins Breakfast
Dietary restrictions
Made to order
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Free street parking
Parking
Easy to get too
Kid-friendliness
Awesome food for kids

  • Joshua Sacca

Went a few times with friends for coffee, staff are super attentive have a good energy.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Coffee and Tea
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Paid parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking
Parking
There is a close big parking lot and streat parking
Wheelchair accessibility
Completely fine

  • Teresa Clark

Just had dinner here for my son's anniversary and thoroughly enjoyed the food and beer. We shared the banquet between 4 and it is was so filling. The only thing a bit hard to share is the dessert but other than that was superb. Lovely atmosphere and staff were just so friendly and attentive. Food was speedy and they gave us a break between courses which was good. Will definitely come again. Love the menus in the books, a really quirky but interesting idea.

  • Natalie Ramsey

A hidden gem! This place blew our minds. Food was amazing. Beef asado fell apart with the touch of the fork; the squid was soft and full of flavour and the polenta nuggets were crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Cocktail menu is one we need to come back for! The staff are super friendly and chill and the music was perfect.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Polenta Nuggets Chipotle Mayo

  • Harry Aggarwal

Penrith wouldn't be complete without Mr Watkins Bar. This iconic bar is a must visit for everyone who comes to Penrith, whether it be for the delicious and creative drinks, welcoming ambience, or the trivia nights. The only factor that lets this place down is the food. The food is quite expensive and not very exciting at all, the portions are tiny too. Nonetheless, the pros outweigh the cons and you end up going back again and again and again.

  • Sam Antha

Love this cafe. Great atmosphere - you can hear yourself talk and they're not playing Top 20 Pop music loudly which I dislike in so many other cafes. Amazing friendly service. Our breakfasts were excellent, so happy to see Pork sausage on the menu instead of horrible chipolatas! We will be back (again and again).
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Mr Watkins Breakfast

  • Cat R

Overall an excellent experience, however the man (I think his name was Doug) with the beard, spoke rudely to staff, seemed belligerent and unprofessional. A “please” and “thank you” could go a long way with your staff, who were all professional, polite and trying their best despite horrible management. Loved the food, drinks and all staff aside from the one guy who made our night uncomfortable. (Would be a 5/5 review if he wasn’t there)

  • Kylie H

A funky little speak easy cafe/bar in the heart of Penrith. Stepping through these doors, I am immediately transported to the 1920s, the decor is fitting of this time, with Chesterfield lounges and shelves of books. The food is average and the drinks menu for the cafe is quite small (the bar options are much more extensive), still this place is well worth a visit just to see what is behind the door. Staff are always friendly.

  • R T

I'm new to the area and am glad I found this place. Came in for brunch and am happy to report this place has great coffee and great staff, set amongst a unique dining experience of antique decor, I'm sure our booth was once an old footpedal sowing table. The freshly baked scones were too much a temptation to not order some as well. Chantelle was very attentive and made our visit enjoyable. We'll be back in the near future.

  • G Jd

Went there for Sunday breakfast, the staff were good, the portions are comparatively small, ask for well cooked eggs got barely cooked basically sunny side, ask for the $4 pork sausage with breakfast expecting at least a full size thin sausage or even a english style pork sausage but got what could be best described as a pork chipolata.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 3
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3

  • Amber Cini

The service here is amazing. They are friendly, attentive and approachable. Food was really nice, I got the pumpkin soup (soup of the day) and loved it. My friend got the pulled pork sandwich and loved it even when full kept eating. I definitely coming back, love the dark academia atmosphere. And the again the service was an highlight.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Erin Q

I think this place is good as a daytime cafe and a night time bar. Didn't like it as a dinner venue. I was part of a group who ordered the banquet, and it was a weird experience. The shared plates were served without serving cutlery, and the food was of mixed appeal. Definitely not enough options for vegetarians, no matter what the staff say. I'm an omnivore and found it quite meat heavy.

  • Deng Athum

The staff on Tuesday 13/06/2023 were the best ever, 10/10, and especially Tara with her beautiful sense of humour! What a BEAUTIFUL COFFEE you guys make! I thank my wife for convincing me to have a try, and she was absolutely right! You'll be seeing me there at least twice a week, if not daily? Thank you for the GREAT service!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Stephanie Taylor

Food was amazing with a great selection of craft beer. All of our meals were great but I highly recommend the ruebeness sandwich everything was very well balanced also the seasoning they use on the chips is unique and delicious. Very friendly staff and a calm and friendly environment to be in. Highly recommended visiting
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Kim Lonergan

Great food and ambience. The staff are really friendly and attentive. Excellent and quick service. We had a bread pie, similar to a regular pie but made with bread instead of pastry. Ingenious and delicious. Mine was filled with Chicken, Salsa Verde, mayo and cheese. The other pie was a Philly cheesesteak filled with steak, capsicum onion, cheese and mayo. Yummy!

  • jarrod gibbons

What an amazing bar with amazing and kind staff. food was delicious and the cocktails even better with second to none presentation and smiles . Will definitely be coming back everytime we come back to Penrith . Thanks guys for making mine and my partners weekend away complete.
Price per person
$200+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Simon Harriott (Que)

Funky atmosphere with lots of quirky goodies around the place. Coffee was spot on! Food looks, smells and tastes AMAZING. Plenty of places doing burgers these days it's great to see somewhere doing something different. Look out Penrith, hotdogs are going to be the next craze! Stop in for a coffee, cocktail or dinner and you definitely won't be disappointed.

  • James McLeay

Fantastic. Loads of character, intensified by the great service and staff. Food is barbarically fresh and tasty, well above expectations. I only wish this bar was big enough to fit all of penrith, god knows the suburb is knocking at their door. If you're coming with a group, make sure you book ahead in peak times or risk not experiencing this awesome bar.

  • Gideon Wong

Walked by this place one day and decided to go in because a sign on the wall said something about a "bread pie". Well I love Pie and I love bread, lets see what this is. The waitress described it as pretty much a jaffle but better - completely agree. Also had a great reubin sandwich as well. Food was fantastic and staff were very friendly and helpful.

  • رايتشول ال

Loved this place. The staff were wonderful and super friendly. The menu was delicious and I really loved how many veggie options there were- all so yummy and creative. The drinks menu was plentiful and just the vibe of the place was intimate and inviting. Would absolutely return and recommend if you want a good, relaxed night with friends

  • Flying Fire Cactus

Brekkie roll and coffee for $10 and it was delicioso! Asked for just bacon and egg, no sauce, no cheese - and that's exactly what I got! Excellent! Was going to have it as takeaway but there was a seat available so I ate in. I'm not sold on the stacking of the old books on the bookshelves. Vertical is the norm. Laying them flat? Mmmm.

  • Jennie C

Ate here a few months ago. Very pleasant decor with fast and friendly service. Food tasted good. Only complaint is that they overcharged me and then argued with me about it. When I left and loitered outside for a minute, the cashier came out and confessed to making a mistake in my bill. It ruined the experience. Check your bill.

  • John Pereira

Really loved my brunch experience. Service was very friendly. The atmosphere inside has a very cool vibe. Definitely want to come to this place again in the night because they also double as a bar.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Mr Watkins Breakfast

  • Chrissy Dolan

Great local hangout... You can pick one of the cocktails off the menu, or if you aren't sure you can let the boys behind the bar know what you like and they are more than willing to throw a lil something together for you! The decor is so cute, we really need more spots like this around the area. Can't wait to visit again!

  • Tamarin

Great food…the pork hock and greens bowl is a definite winner. The cocktails were super tasty and the beverage list in general is quite extensive and they had my favourite gin ‘ Karu’ which was a nice surprise. Everything was also really well priced and the staff were really attentive and friendly. Definitely left happy!

  • Rhonda Kharma Reidy

Waited about 15 mins or more for my drink, I ordered scrambled eggs on toast and I got mushrooms on the side, I didn't say anything because I like the people in this establishment, not sure if she overcharged me at all, but anyway overall, food and staff are great there, they were very busy today, being a Saturday...

  • Rochelle Chavez

What a gem! Great small bar with lots of character and meals packed with a tonne of flavour. Sticky pork hock was absolutely to die for. Polenta nuggets were amazing and the beef rib when they had it last year was some of the best in the world. Cocktails are also soo delicious. Can't wait to come back and try more!

  • Vaine Sheehan

Great coffee, ambience and vintage feel with a bar type style out back, leather seats and furnishings, great for groups or just a date night. Great gem of a place in penrith!!! The staff are so attentive with old school tracks playing, for once a place that does not play music loudly. Such a cool vibe.

  • Sylvain Mansotte

From the warm welcome on entry through ordering and departing the service was impeccable and by far the best I have had since moving to the area. This bar would not feel out of place in New York, the beef was cooked perfectly and the drinks were original and well mixed. Think I have found my new local!

  • Adam Crystal

Hands down the best place in Penrith for coffee and atmosphere!!! Staff lady was fantastic, really sells the business and promotes every area of the place so well.. tidy and clean, funky as!! Cannot wait to try the food and the night atmosphere!! Definately will be a regular here!!! Fantastic!!! A++++

  • M M

Having been a regular for years and enjoying the consistency of great service and product, I held a large function recently and was so impressed with the experience, ambiance, professionalism and the overall effortless process. All my guests raved about it too, especially the food. Thank you!

  • Lisa Dawes

I have been to Mr Watkins several times and it has NEVER failed to please! Fantastic, vibrant staff - entertaining at the bar, on the floor and through the kitchen window! Delicious food, relaxed lit ambience, filled with old industrial decor and a great atmosphere with cruisy music! Love it!

  • Beau Portelli

WOW!!! We felt like we were in Newtown or Sydney CBD. The team at Mr Watkins did an amazing team with the decor, slections of food and drinks and the staff are attentive and friendly. If you're eating there, highly recommended stick pork hock. Mouthwatering....!! Definitely will be back!!!!

  • Adelle Perry

If you're looking for a mean American style hot dog, awesome tapas or brekkie rivalling a swank cafe in the city, this laid back and stylish bar/cafe/restaurant is the place to go. Highly recommended, friendly staff, reasonably priced and a great place to go for pre dinner drinks or a meal.

  • Laura Gray

Fantastic food and drinks. First time playing trivia on Thursday night. So laid back; no cost to join and no pressure. Doesn’t drag on like most trivia nights also. Pork hock, potato bake and couscous salad is an absolute winning combo.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Bianca M

My partner & I are here almost every second weekend, we absolutely love this place! The service is always 10/10 and the coffee is honestly the best coffee ever. The food is always consistently good too.
Price per person
$40–60
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Katrina Sammut

First time at Mr Watkins after hearing several great reviews by some close friends, and it didn't disappoint. The staff were absolutely fantastic. The slow cooked beef was the absolute highlight! Salmo ceviche tacos and banofee sundae were very close seconds. But the beef!!! …

  • Thomas Cobden

Amazing ambiance, and the best trivia on a Thursday night that we've been to in a while. Their food is sensational too. Don't expect a big formal sit down type menu, instead they focus on finger food and share plates together with sensational hot dogs. All of their food is sensational.

  • Ashleigh Dukes

While I've never visited the bar, I've always enjoyed lunches here. The service is quick and very friendly- the staff clearly love what they do and have cultivated a great workplace environment. The steak sandwich and deli sandwich are a must have, and their coffees are always great.

  • Diana Virkki

Wasn't too stoked that my lunch vegan option was going to be a salad Sanger - but oh my - best salad sandwich I've ever had in my life! The flavours, caramelized onion, sauerkraut, it was all so delicious and very filling! Great portion size, and their chips are delicious too …

  • Donnie Gregory

Great place to visit for a drink or meal. Something for everyone. Food was amazing, staff is what will bring me back here. Just one of the best service I have ever had. They generally care about you and the food you eat. Just wonderful. Thank you and see you again soon.

  • Matt Tomczak

The gold standard of service. Seated for drinks despite being a packed out and bustling Saturday night service. The table staff are absolutely on point along with the folks behind the bar - these original cocktails would rival the best bars in the city. Get amongst it.

  • Gaye Hatfield

Nice setting and open much later than most places. Food is nice and staff attentive although may have been a little understaffed. We were there for lunch and we had quite a wait for food to come for a simple pumpkin salad . I would like to see what it's like at night.

  • Josh Wolf

The place looks really good -top bathrooms. Staff are amazing! They're 10/10 Trivia night is loads of fun. There's only ever two beers on tap -and they're pretty pricey. Tip: Eat before you go. The food is mainly $10 hot dogs and they're nothing to write home about.

  • Andrew O'Leary

Highly recommended. Being a cocktail bar I was expecting quite intimate music, but this place was rocking.. Awesome vibes, food was amazing. Definitely do yourself a favour and stop in. Will definitely be back.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Libby Williams

Not your ordinary cafe. The front counter area looks small but the hidden gem is through the door. Rustic, eclectic, industrial. Old Singer sewing machine footrests under tables, old leather Chesterfield lounges. Staff were very friendly and service was great.

  • Scott Williams

Gets two stars only for the lady who greeted us, can't comment on the other staff as no one approached us for 15 minutes. Kitchen staff could see the issue, but even ringing the bell brought no service. Real shame as lived the fitout and the menu looked great.

  • Pamela Liendo

We had my brother in laws 30th here and it was an amazing experience. The food, drinks and staff were fantastic especially Erin who was looking after us the whole night. Look forward to coming back!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Wayno W

Fantastic breakfast menu, well priced and awesome staff. I'm just sorry I didn't get a photo of my steak sandwich. It was tasty, well constructed and huge! 10/10
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Lynzi Haythorne

I absolutely love the service, I have NEVER been unsatisfied with the customer service! The coffee is just as great! Love the business a d I regularly wear the t-shirt to help get more people to try their coffee or anything of their choice …

  • Josh Holmes

Unique little place with a warm friendly team and good service in Penrith. Great for Breaky and a coffee ☕️ or two! Would like to have a few beverages with some tunes at night time, quirky bar area out the back, I think would be awesome! …

  • Irene Mortakis

Kayla was the most amazing server, one of the nicest people I’ve met in a long time. Goes above and beyond for customers and absolutely made my day! Scones with jam and cream are unbelievable aswell! Wish I could give this place more stars! ☺️

  • Roxan Mina

Thoroughly enjoyed the experience there from being greeted to getting the food to exiting. Super lovely staff, great atmosphere, and great food. The Oreo cheese cake was out of this world. Would definitely go there again, highly recommend

  • Jess

Mr Watkins Bar is a genuine gem in Penrith! We had discovered it by accident, but are glad that we did. Very welcoming staff, beautiful decor, great range of drinks and the food was to die for. I had the chorizo hotdog and have been craving

  • Anna Blackwell

Booked for dinner at 7:30PM Saturday night. Honestly enjoyed the experience. The service was awesome, the food was great and the cocktails even better. It was however SUPER busy. Highly recommend a booking and bringing your hearing aids. :)

  • Pat Polly

I love their coffeeeeeeeee and homemade scones. If you think of stopping at Penrith for coffee, this place is one of the best.Their breakfast menu is alright but do not expect anything fancy. We'd love to go back for cocktails and dinner.

  • Candice Welsman

Love this place. The staff are so friendly and always go that extra mile. Love getting my morning coffees here and having a chat. Have also checked out the bar and had a meal here, was a fantastic night. Customer service was really great

  • Sophie Chambers (Sophi_eatinglocal)

The best food!!! The Pork Hock is a MUST TRY!! Sharing dishes, great for a meal out with friends or family. Cocktails are also amazing. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Great coffee too. Lots of GF options. Highly recommended …

  • Aneta Jovanovski

Love everything about Mr Watkins! From the vibe to the staff. I finished my hens night off here and it was honestly such a good vibe with nice cocktails. Their tapas menu is tasty and I love their chai lattes. Miss working in Penrith

  • Ben Thompson

The staff are phenomenal, they make you feel like a part of the family. Definitely one of the finest establishments in the Penrith area. The food is also spot on everytime
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Sarah K

I only took a photo of half the sand which because it was so delicious I couldn’t wait! This place has friendly staff, great service and great decor. I highly recommend the chicken sandwich. They also have a great music play list

  • Sarah Beamer

Unique atmosphere for Penrith, you won't find it anywhere else out in the Greater West. Very funky chill vibe, awesome drinks and the food will surprise you! Very impressive. One of my partner and I'm favourite for a date night.

  • Joey Attard

Great little place to hang out and have a meal and drinks, will definitely go back for seconds.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Charcuterie Board

  • Lillian Hine

A quirky place to go for a cuppa, drink, afternoon tea and a light lunch, solo or with friend/s. Caters to people of all ages. The staff are attentive and helpful. I haven't been for dinner yet but their menu is interesting.

  • Dianne Bednarczyk

Brilliant food but have to say the waitress really made our dining experience exceptional. You would have to go to a lot of restaurants before you found someone that was so welcoming. What a perfectly relaxed night we had.

  • Anthony W Vella

First time at Mr Watkins and I thoroughly enjoyed it, the style of the place brought back memories of my younger years. Food was placed at my table in a timely manner and tasted great. I believe I have found my new local.

  • Liam Hodgson

Great place, delicious coffee & food. Keen to try their cocktail selection. Visited again for a coffee & breaky roll combo, coffee was made almost instantly but a 20 minute wait for a breaky roll was a bit discouraging.

  • Simone Danielle

Was my first time here and it was really lovely. The staff were very welcoming, friendly and super chill. The sandwich pies are really yummy. The atmosphere is calm and eclectic. Will definitely be going back soon.

  • Kelli-jo Dahdal

Atmosphere is awesome! Excellent service, staff are really friendly and genuine. Coffee was perfect and the gluten free chocolate brownie was the best I've ever had. Can't wait to go for a meal, menu looks great.

  • Suzanne Arabi (Suzie)

Love love love this place. Staff are super nice and atmosphere is amazing.
Price per person
$20–40
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Mr Watkins Breakfast

  • N. Du Plessis

Penrith is getting some great venues, and this is one of them. Totally exceeded our expectations on atmosphere and service. Cocktails were wonderful, including the off-menu ones :) Will be back for certain

  • Naik Poo

Customer Service was good. But the mushroom soup was not great. Not the best of the experience as far as food was concerned. Also the food offerings were not exhaustive like other cafes around in penrith.

  • Stevie K

Mr Watkins is quickly becoming my preferred place for a drink and a meetup. Great selection of beers and cocktails, friendly staff along with a small menu done well. Penrith needed a place like this

  • It’s Me

First time visiting, had a beautiful breakfast, food was delicious and service was amazing! Would recommend!!
Price per person
$1–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • gary dillon

Really friendly and comfortable. Watched the world go by with my son,coffee and milkshake. Both awesome. Milkshake could have been bigger but my son enjoyed it. Will definitely be going back.

  • Nerida Riley

Food, service, atmosphere superb. Highly recommend half head of cauliflower flash fried and drenched in cheese sauce (off menu) and finishing up with the mulled wine. I'll be back and soon.

  • Tristan Mestroni

The food and drinks here are great, the staff are also sensational. The best thing about Mr Watkins is the vibe though. It's a cool place and if feels nice hanging out there. Excellent bar.

  • Nicholas de Klerk

Good was incredible! Trivia night was super fun.... Bar/ service staff were great and helpful....chef was super friendly...loved it
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • P Photography

Had morning coffee and banana bread. Coffee was excellent and banana bread is equally delicious.
Price per person
$1–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

  • Stan Celeban

Great atmosphere, very noisy but I think my kids contributed somewhat, food and coffee Very good, one small problem they don't serve real beer lots of fruity and boutique beer yuk.

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