Exploring Dubbo: A Quick Stop at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Cafe
As a consultant, my work often takes me to places far and wide, uncovering hidden gems along the way. Late last year, I had the opportunity to visit Dubbo for an information session at Dubbo South Public School. The school is upgrading significantly, consolidating buildings G, H, I, and J, damaged by a fire in December 2021, into one modern facility. The project aims to restore and enhance the learning environment for the students.
After the session, my team and I found ourselves with a few hours to spare before our flight back to Sydney. Dubbo locals enthusiastically recommended the Taronga Western Plains Zoo. While we didn’t have enough time for the entire zoo experience, we discovered the perfect alternative: enjoying the zoo’s magic from the comfort of one of its cafes.
A Taste of the Wild
Image Credit: Tarnia Riggs
We headed to Café Wild, located in the zoo’s entry plaza, and were immediately enchanted by its setting overlooking the serene Savannah Lake. Even from the cafe, we caught glimpses of the zoo’s lively residents—spider monkeys swinging gracefully and Ring-Tailed Lemurs basking in the sunshine. The tranquil surroundings, complemented by the sight of local birds flitting about, made it a wonderfully relaxing spot.
Café Wild offers a range of delicious, cooked-to-order meals. From their popular smashed avocado with locally sourced feta to a hearty southern chicken burger, there was something to satisfy every craving. With a perfectly brewed coffee in hand, we soaked in the peaceful ambience and even spotted a pedal boat gliding across the lake.
Family-Friendly Fun
Image Credit: Tarnia Riggs
The zoo also features The Waterhole, an outdoor cafe in the heart of the grounds for those travelling with kids. This spot boasts views of animal habitats and a water play area where children can have fun while adults enjoy a gourmet burger or sandwich. You might even catch a glimpse of the meerkats as you dine!
TARONGA WEBSITE
Whether stopping by for a quick bite or spending a full day exploring, Taronga Western Plains Zoo is a must-visit destination, even if it is just the cafe. It’s a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and delicious food—ideal for a family-friendly stopover.
Even though our time in Dubbo was brief, the experience left a lasting impression. If you’re planning an interstate trip, be sure to include Taronga Western Plains Zoo on your itinerary. Whether you explore the full zoo or simply enjoy a meal at one of its cafes, it’s an experience you won’t forget.