Calala Inn — Restaurant in New South Wales

Waltzing into the Calala Inn wasn’t just a casual pub stop-it felt like we’d tripped arse-over-teakettle into a parallel universe stitched together with old-school charm, cozy vibes, and the kind of warmth you normally only get from nanna’s floppy hugs and well-aged whiskey.

We made a beeline for the fireplace quicker than a kelpie on a cattle run. But this wasn’t just any fire, nah-this bad boy crackled and popped like it was telling ghost stories straight from Tamworth’s dusty backroads. I’m not saying I saw a tiny fire-spirit doing the Nutbush in there, but I’m not not saying it either. It wrapped around us like a doona straight outta the tumble dryer and politely told our worries to nick off.

We parked ourselves next to a few legends at the bar and got schooled in the ancient art of the slow Aussie drawl. Ask about the weather and you’ll get a tale that spans the Dreamtime, three droughts, and a particularly aggressive magpie incident. It was like listening to bush poetry set to the rhythm of clinking schooners and chuckles that echo down to your soul.

Then came the schnitty. Holy dooley. This wasn’t a pub meal-it was a religious experience served on a plate the size of a ute tray. Golden, crispy, and thicker than a tradie’s wallet on pay day. First bite? I swear I heard angels-or maybe just Mick from down the end of the bar humming Cold Chisel. Either way, I ascended briefly. If that schnitzel had asked me to elope, I would’ve packed my bags and left my old life behind.

The joint itself? All timber beams, warm lights, and a buzz that wraps around you like the gentle hum of a diesel engine on a country cruise. The staff? Bloody poetry in motion. They floated about with the grace of emus on roller skates-except, you know, coordinated-and knew what we wanted before we did. I’m fairly convinced at least two of them were undercover forest nymphs moonlighting as bar staff.

So if you find yourself in Tamworth, a bit peckish, and in need of spiritual realignment via top-tier pub grub and old-school country hospitality, do yourself a favour: swing by the Calala Inn. It’s not just a pub-it’s a bloody sanctuary. We walked out full of food, laughter, and maybe just a little bit more wisdom than when we wandered in.

Wouldn’t change a thing. Five stars, two thumbs up, and the slowest...

Three of us enjoyed dinner last Wednesday night. I had Creamy Garlic Prawns served with Basmati Rice - a bit bland, I would have preferred much more garlic. Hubby had T-Bone 450g with Creamy Garlic Topper - he thoroughly enjoyed his meal and followed it with Waffles in Salted Caramel Sauce - small helping for $12 but he did enjoy it. Our friend had Roast Lamb with Vegetables - a generous serving of lamb and delicious veggies. The Garlic Bread we shared for Entree was yummy. The staff are fantastic - customer service at Calala Tavern is exceptional. The dining area is clean and welcoming. We will definitely be returning for...

My family and I came for a midday lunch on Saturday. We were the third table to sit down amd order. By the time we left at 1pm, the entire place was full. Every table had someone sitting at it. The food was absolutely delicious. Very generous portion sizes and all round big meals. Prices are very reasonable. The atmosphere is great. Staff are friendly. The place is clean and well presented. The air conditioning inside is perfect. I Highly recommend this restaurant and bar. Pork ribs were fantastic. Barramundi delicious. Chicken schnitzel very fresh. They even gave my nephew a free little ice cream tub with strawberry syrup...