Cheeky Dog

Cheeky Dog is a relaxed pub, bistro and sports bar by the bay in Nelson Bay, Newcastle, with indoor and outdoor spaces for eating, drinking and settling in for the afternoon. The venue describes itself as being about 50 metres from the bar to the bay, and its open-plan layout includes a beer garden for easy-going meals and drinks. It is a practical option for a casual lunch, dinner or a few beers rather than a formal dining experience, with the kitchen serving dine-in and takeaway meals seven days a week.

The food takes a modern Mediterranean direction, with local ingredients from around the Bay used across a broad menu. There are smaller options such as salt and pepper squid, ragu arancini, falafel, hummus and marinated olives, while larger plates include the date and orange-glazed half roast chicken, braised beef cheek, prawn linguine, stone-baked barramundi and chicken schnitzel. The pizza list covers familiar choices including Margherita, pepperoni and ham and pineapple, alongside options such as lamb with salsa verde, garlic prawn and pesto with mushroom. Gluten-free pizza bases and vegan cheese are available on request, and the venue notes that some dishes can be adapted for dietary needs.

For drinks and entertainment, the bar offers cold beer, cocktails, a weekday happy hour from 4pm to 6pm, and a dedicated sports area with large screens, a VIP lounge, pool tables and TAB facilities. The sports bar was founded in 2019 and is built around watching live games in a social setting. That makes Cheeky Dog a natural fit for groups wanting food alongside sport, as well as locals looking for a casual place to meet. Those after a quieter meal can use the bistro and outdoor areas, depending on how busy the bar is.

Families are catered for with a dedicated kids' menu featuring a cheeseburger and chips, chicken nuggets and chips, or pasta with Neapolitan sauce. Couples and solo diners can also keep things simple with a main meal, pizza or a selection of shared antipasto. Bookings are not essential but are recommended during peak periods, particularly Saturday nights. The venue is open seven days, with dinner service running later on Fridays and Saturdays, and applies Sunday and public holiday surcharges.