A Coastal Guide to Culinary Sydney
Down Under is heading into Summer and that means all things by the water for Sydneysiders and their visitors.
World famous as one of the beauty points of Australia, Sydney’s sparkling harbor, golden beaches, and sun-drenched Eastern coastline offer more than just postcard-perfect views—they’re also home to some of Australia’s top dining experiences—especially seafood.
And unlike some other cities, Sydney’s waterfront restaurants aren’t tourist traps— they are points of pride boasting quality dining with unbeatable views, relaxed atmosphere and elegant plating.
Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood under the iconic Opera House sails, or having brekkie in a seaside suburban spot like Bondi Beach, here’s your guide to the top waterfront dining locations across Greater Sydney, perfect for visitors looking to soak up the local flavor—courtesy of our friends at Destination NSW.
Harbor icons and city views
Situated at the Pullman Quay Grand, Flaminia is an Italian restaurant with uninterrupted views over Circular Quay. It’s a great choice for visitors wanting to dine near the city’s iconic landmarks.
Gina brings Amalfi Coast vibes to Sydney’s Barangaroo waterfront. With house-made pasta and a produce-driven menu, it’s perfect for long lunches or Aperol-fueled dinners with friends.
Just a short stroll away, Watermans offers a distinctly Eastern Mediterranean experience under the direction of acclaimed chef Darryl Martin, formerly of Barzaari.
Editor’s Hack: Get around the famed and picturesque Sydney Harbor using the inexpensive and accessible inter-harbor ferry system, which can get you to many of the best spots.
The 120-seat venue seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor dining, creating an intimate setting where bold flavors meet harbor-front serenity.
Editor’s Hack: Tipping in Australia is voluntary, with no expectation for it, as workers are paid a higher minimum wage and tips are only for exceptional service. A common practice is to round up the bill or leave a small cash tip, around 10% for outstanding service.
Throughout summer, Solaré offers a luxe dining experience aboard a 150-foot superyacht. With a seasonal Italian tasting menu Executive Chef Pablo Tordesillas and Head Chef Nick Mathieson, guests can enjoy gourmet dishes like Moreton Bay bug pasta and caviar-topped brioche while cruising the harbor.
The Terrace and Sun Deck offer a more relaxed à la carte menu made for leisurely afternoons and sunset gatherings.
Editor’s Hack: When dining out it is typical to find wines from renowned Australian regions such as the Barossa Valley, Yarra Valley, Hunter Valley, and Margaret River on restaurant menus. Some restaurants even specialize in pairing their cuisine with local wines, offering unique and integrated dining experiences. Additionally, many casual restaurants allow “BYO” (Bring Your Own) wine, often for a small corkage fee, further illustrating the integration of wine into Australian dining culture.
Located at the Sydney Opera House, Midden by Mark Olive showcases Indigenous Australian ingredients like wattle seed, bush honey, and saltbush. Created by renowned chef Mark Olive, the menu offers a unique cultural and culinary experience rooted in millennia-old traditions.
Eastern beaches in Sydney
The Beach Club at Watsons Bay Hotel is a must-visit for its expansive beer garden, striped umbrellas, and panoramic views of the Sydney skyline. Feast on prawns, oysters, sashimi, or classic fish and chips while sipping colorful cocktails. It’s especially popular during summer and school holidays.
Sean’s Panorama is a beloved Bondi restaurant that is known for its simple, unpretentious food and warm service. With over 20 years of history, Sean’s offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience just steps from the sand.
Located within the InterContinental Coogee Beach, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach is a 224-seat restaurant that brings his signature coastal style to Sydney. Expect refined beachside dining with a focus on fresh, local produce and a menu that celebrates the ocean.
Northern shores and coastal charm
Located right on the water at Manly Wharf, Felons Brewing Co is a lively spot ideal for groups. With a Mediterranean-inspired pub menu, standout wood-fired pizzas (choose between Napoli-style or thin and crispy), and exclusive Felons craft beers, it’s a perfect place to unwind after a ferry ride from Circular Quay.
A Sydney institution, Bathers’ Pavilion in Mosman combines 1920s Art Deco elegance with Mediterranean charm. Overlooking Middle Harbour, it’s perfect for everything from casual beachside fish and chips to celebratory dinners.
For a more refined experience, Sails on Lavender Bay offers gourmet dining with unbeatable views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. This gem blends sophistication with seaside charm, making it ideal for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Whether you’re dropping in for lunch or lingering over drinks on the terrace, The Collaroy delivers relaxed beachside vibes with a polished menu. This laidback eatery serves freshly shucked oysters and wood-fired pizzas with sweeping views across the northern peninsula.
Set among lush gardens on the shores of Pittwater, The Newport is a sprawling venue with multiple outdoor dining spaces. From burgers and fish & chips to fresh salads and smoothies, the menu is diverse and family-friendly. It’s a great spot to spend an entire afternoon soaking up the sun.
Perched on a clifftop above the spectacular coastline of Whale Beach, Jonah’s is a fine dining restaurant serving modern Australian cuisine with an Italian twist. Take a seat in the dining room by the floor-to-ceiling windows, or on the terrace to feel the gentle ocean breeze.
Editor’s Hack: You can stay at Jonah’s and it consistently tops reviews as having the best views. Check it, and comparative properties, here.
Southern Sydney
Following a $12 million transformation, Georges River Sailing Club has reopened with Porta Dining, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offering sweeping views of Botany Bay. With cocktail collaborations from acclaimed mixologists Maybe Sammy, it’s a stylish new addition to Sydney’s southern waterfront.
Reopened with a fresh concept, Jaaks Restaurant and Bar draws on Turkish and Greek island influences to bring a breezy, coastal feel to the southern suburbs. It’s a great spot for relaxed dining with a view.
Editor’s Hack: Try to order fresh prawns and scallops—very different here than in the Northern Hemisphere. Ask about sustainable and versatile local fish like Murray Cod, or barramundi. Moreton Bay and Balmain Bugs, crustaceans also known as slipper lobsters, are local delicacies found in the local fish shop or cooperative and often end up on restaurant menus.
Bobby’s Cronulla is all about relaxed summertime eating. With a seafood-driven menu and prime beachfront location, it’s a favorite for locals and visitors alike looking to enjoy the laidback Cronulla lifestyle.
Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, wood-fired pizza, or native Australian ingredients, Sydney’s waterfront dining scene offers something for every palate. With stunning views and vibrant atmospheres, these restaurants are more than just places to eat, they’re destinations in their own right. So grab a seat by the water, raise a glass, and enjoy the best of Sydney’s culinary coast.
