My family dine out at Emerald Gardens once a month, usually on special occasions. The food is sensational! The menu has a great variety of Chinese options, with some unique dishes that you simply cannot get anywhere else in the Hunter region, like the delicious 'Shredded Coconut Covered King Prawns' - my personal favourite. The food always comes out piping hot and the service is pretty good, considering what you usually get at Asian restaurants. My one gripe is that they sometimes don't listen when you explain how and when you want each dish to be served (i.e. what order), they almost always mess this up. Aside from that, it is a little bit on the expensive side, but the price is well worth it and you will not leave unsatisfied. Overall, if you are planning a family meal, you should consider Emerald Gardens. They have huge circular booth tables that could comfortably fit 8-9 people.