Tamworth, a city synonymous with steakhouses and pub meals, is slowly getting a taste for chic cuisine.

A growing trend towards coffee culture and fine food is redefining the culinary landscape in the Country Music Capital, local hospitality leaders say.

While the ubiquitous steak and chips still rules the menus, former cafe owner and TAFE hospitality teacher Robert Manville said palates were evolving.

“A lot of professional people have come into town in recent years and have brought that city culture with them,” Mr Manville said.

“But country people still love their steaks.”

And it’s not just our taste for tucker that’s maturing.

Ruby’s Cafe owner Chris Woods said in the 18 months since he bought the business, he’s noticed a seismic shift in the way locals order their coffee.

“Customers are certainly becoming more interested, educated and savvy about coffee,” Mr Woods said.

“Ten years ago, country people just wanted an extra hot cappuccino. But people now want to know where the coffee is from.

“We have a more Melbourne-style of coffee – a deep robust flavour without bitterness – whereas a cafe like Addimi have a more Sydney style. It’s a bit sharper and more bitter.

“I’ve even noticed lately people are asking for coffee at a lower temperature, which is a sure sign our tastes are maturing.”

Locals are also developing a penchant for organic food, according to the organiser of the city’s weekly organic food market, Tracey Kanyaro.

“It would have tripled in size in two-and-a-half years,” Ms Kanyaro said.

“People are more conscious of supporting small local farmers and getting back to the community.

“They’re also discovering the advantages of eating organically.”

Ms Kanyaro, who also runs Le Pruneau French restaurant, said she had noticed a growing acceptance of “non-mainstream” restaurant food since opening six years ago.

“When people first found out we weren’t serving steak it was very controversial,” she said.

“But it’s changing and I think Tamworth generally is becoming more cosmopolitan.”