After 11 Years, MEET Restaurant to Close Its Doors as New Chapter Begins

When MEET first opened its doors more than a decade ago, it brought the authentic Brazilian churrasco experience to Newcastle and quickly became a favourite with locals looking for an open-flame dining experience.

Now, after more than a decade of serving Newcastle, MEET Restaurant has announced it will close its doors, with its final service taking place on Saturday 17 October 2026.

The announcement marks the end of an era for one of Newcastle's longest-standing barbecue restaurants, but the team says it is far from goodbye.

As expected, the team don’t plan on going out quietly. Instead, they want this final chapter to be a memorable one, dedicating their remaining 11 weeks of trade to the experience that defined the restaurant – its signature Churrasco. One week for every year it has proudly served Newcastle.

"Rather than winding down, we want to finish stronger than ever. We can't wait to welcome everyone back over the next 11 weeks to celebrate everything MEET has been."

Since opening its doors in 2015, MEET has introduced thousands of Novocastrians to Brazilian-inspired Churrasco dining, becoming known for its fire-cooked meats, shared feasts and celebrations.

However, owners say the decision reflects the reality facing many hospitality businesses across Australia.

"Like many hospitality businesses, we've felt the impact of rising food and operating costs. While our commitment to quality and genuine hospitality hasn't changed, the cost of delivering an all-you-can-eat Churrasco experience has reached a point where it's no longer sustainable. Rather than compromise what MEET has always stood for, we've made the difficult decision to close this chapter and look ahead to what's next."

The team says adaptability has always been one of its greatest strengths.

"Hospitality is constantly evolving. Throughout our journey, we've never been afraid to change, challenge ourselves or create something new, and that's exactly what we're doing again."

While MEET will close, the King Street site won't stay quiet for long.

Following a short renovation period, the space will reopen as an entirely new concept that aligns more closely with sister venues Frenchie on Darby Street and Alfie's in New Lambton, continuing the group's vision for its growing hospitality precinct.

"We're incredibly excited about what's next. While it's difficult to say goodbye to a restaurant that's meant so much to so many people, we're equally excited about creating something that reflects where we are today and where we're heading as a group."

"Closing one door allows us to open another. We're excited to keep investing in Newcastle and continue building on what we've created across King Street and Darby Street."

The business also confirmed that Charred, located alongside Frenchie on Darby Street, will continue to trade as normal, serving takeaway and quick dine-in options for lunch and dinner from Wednesday through Saturday.

Above all, the team says this announcement is about gratitude.

"To every guest who has celebrated a birthday, anniversary, engagement, work lunch or Friday night with us over the past 11 years – thank you.

"You've helped build something incredibly special. We'd love nothing more than to welcome you back one last time, raise a glass together and give MEET the send-off it deserves."