The 20 Best Waterfront Restaurants in Sydney: From Casual Eats to Upscale Dining with a View

Sydney’s world-famous harbour, golden beaches, and scenic coastline provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're after a laid-back meal by the water or an elegant fine-dining experience with breathtaking views, Sydney offers a mix of casual and upscale waterfront restaurants that serve exceptional food with equally stunning scenery.

From beachside cafés and harbourside bistros to high-end restaurants perched above the Pacific Ocean, here are 20 of the best waterfront restaurants in Sydney, each offering something special for every budget and occasion.

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1. The Boathouse Shelly Beach – A Relaxed Beachfront Gem

Set right on the sand at Shelly Beach, this bright and airy café is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking up the ocean views. With rustic wooden furniture, nautical décor, and fresh flowers on every table, The Boathouse radiates a laid-back beachside charm.

The menu is packed with classic Aussie breakfast and lunch favourites, with an emphasis on fresh seafood. The beer-battered fish and chips and the grilled barramundi with citrus butter sauce are must-tries.

📍 Location: 1 Marine Parade, Manly NSW 2095
💰 Budget: $20-$35 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📌 Booking: No reservations; walk-ins only
⭐ Review: “A perfect spot for breakfast by the beach. The views are incredible, and the food is fresh and delicious.” – Sarah L.
🌍 Website: https://www.theboathousesb.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9974 5440

2. Chiosco by Ormeggio – Casual Italian by the Harbour

For a casual yet authentic Italian dining experience, Chiosco by Ormeggio is a hidden gem at The Spit in Mosman. The alfresco setting, surrounded by yachts and calm harbour waters, makes it an idyllic lunch or dinner spot.

The spaghetti alle vongole (pasta with clams) and grilled octopus are house specialities, showcasing simple, high-quality ingredients. Inspired by traditional Italian trattorias, this spot delivers top-tier food without the formality.

📍 Location: D'Albora Marina, Spit Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $30-$50 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📌 Booking: Recommended, especially on weekends
⭐ Review: “Delicious Italian fare with a view of the harbour. The seafood is particularly outstanding.” – James T.
🌍 Website: https://www.chiosco.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9046 7333

3. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel – Iconic Harbourside Dining

Overlooking the sparkling blue waters of Watsons Bay, this hotel’s restaurant is a favourite for relaxed, beachside dining with an unbeatable view of the Sydney skyline. The open-air Beach Club, with its striped umbrellas and communal benches, offers a fun and lively atmosphere.

Seafood is the main attraction here, with freshly shucked oysters, fish tacos, and seafood platters being the top picks. Pair your meal with an Aperol Spritz and watch the sun set over the harbour.

📍 Location: 1 Military Rd, Watsons Bay NSW 2030
💰 Budget: $25-$45 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 AM – Late | Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 AM – Late
📌 Booking: Recommended for larger groups
⭐ Review: “An iconic spot with breathtaking views of the harbour. Perfect for a lazy Sunday lunch.” – Emily R.
🌍 Website: https://watsonsbayhotel.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9337 5444

4. The Newport – Alfresco Dining Overlooking Pittwater

Perched above the calm waters of Pittwater, The Newport is one of Sydney’s most stunning outdoor dining spots. With multiple food stalls, outdoor bars, and a beer garden, it’s perfect for a laid-back meal with friends or family.

The menu is varied and casual, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to fresh seafood. The ocean trout poke bowl and the spicy prawn pizza are standout dishes.

📍 Location: 2 Kalinya St, Newport NSW 2106
💰 Budget: $20-$40 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
📌 Booking: No reservations; walk-ins only
⭐ Review: “A fantastic place to relax with friends. Great food options and beautiful views of the water.” – Michael B.
🌍 Website: https://www.merivale.com/venues/thenewport
📞 Phone: +61 2 9114 7337

5. Balmoral Beach Kiosk – Laid-Back Eats Right on the Sand

For a casual meal just steps from the water, Balmoral Beach Kiosk is a local favourite. With outdoor seating shaded by umbrellas and a front-row view of the bay, it’s perfect for a relaxed breakfast or lunch by the beach.

The menu focuses on classic Australian beach fare, with the grilled fish burger, smashed avocado toast, and prawn tacos being standouts.

📍 Location: Balmoral Beach Esplanade, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $15-$30 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📌 Booking: No reservations needed
⭐ Review: “A great little beach café! Super casual, friendly staff, and amazing views.” – Chloe M.
🌍 Website: https://www.balmoralkiosk.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9960 1344

6. Icebergs Dining Room and Bar – Sydney’s Most Iconic Ocean View Restaurant

Perched above Bondi Beach, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar offers one of the most spectacular dining views in Sydney. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Bondi Icebergs ocean pool and the crashing waves beyond, this is fine dining with a laid-back coastal feel.

The menu has a strong Italian influence, with standout dishes like hand-rolled pasta with spanner crab, wood-fired lamb with rosemary, and an indulgent seafood platter. Icebergs is a must-visit for a special occasion or a long lunch with a view.

📍 Location: 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026
💰 Budget: $50-$100 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – Late
📌 Booking: Highly recommended, especially for window tables
⭐ Review: “An unparalleled dining experience with breathtaking views. The food is exquisite, and the ambiance is unmatched.” – Emma T.
🌍 Website: https://icebergs.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9365 9000

7. The Fenwick – Harbour Bridge Views in a Heritage Setting

Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century sandstone building in Balmain East, The Fenwick is an elegant yet unpretentious waterfront restaurant. The venue offers spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Barangaroo, best enjoyed from the outdoor terrace.

The menu features contemporary Australian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, with highlights like grilled octopus with romesco sauce, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, and kingfish crudo. The intimate setting and historic charm make this a perfect date-night spot.

📍 Location: 2-8 Weston St, Balmain East NSW 2041
💰 Budget: $40-$70 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
📌 Booking: Recommended for weekend brunch and dinner
⭐ Review: “A hidden gem with spectacular harbour views. The food is delightful, and the setting is both cozy and elegant.” – Liam P.
🌍 Website: https://www.thefenwick.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9555 8100

8. Squire's Landing – The Best View of the Opera House & Harbour Bridge

If you’re looking for the ultimate harbourside beer and dining experience, Squire’s Landing is the place to be. This brewery and restaurant at Circular Quay offers stunning panoramic views of both the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

The menu focuses on classic Aussie pub fare with a gourmet twist, including wagyu beef burgers, beer-battered fish and chips, and house-smoked BBQ meats. Pair your meal with one of the on-site brewed James Squire craft beers while soaking up one of the best views in Sydney.

📍 Location: Northern end of the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
💰 Budget: $30-$60 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – Late
📌 Booking: Recommended for groups
⭐ Review: “Fantastic location for a casual drink and meal with unbeatable views of Sydney’s icons.” – Mark J.
🌍 Website: https://www.squireslanding.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 8014 5666

9. Bathers’ Pavilion – A Sophisticated Spot on Balmoral Beach

Right on the white sands of Balmoral Beach, Bathers’ Pavilion is both a fine dining restaurant and a relaxed beachside café, making it perfect for any occasion. The casual café serves fresh seafood, gourmet sandwiches, and delicious pastries, while the elegant restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with Mediterranean influences.

Signature dishes include grilled king prawns with lemon butter and dry-aged duck breast with cherries and hazelnuts. Whether you go for a beachside brunch or a long seafood lunch, the setting is relaxing yet refined.

📍 Location: 4 The Esplanade, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $30-$100 per person, depending on the section
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – Late
📌 Booking: Required for the restaurant, walk-ins for the café
⭐ Review: “An elegant yet casual spot with a beautiful beachfront setting. The food and service are exceptional.” – Sophie L.
🌍 Website: https://www.batherspavilion.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9969 5050

10. Blackfish Café & Grill – Laid-Back Dining on Georges River

A true hidden gem in Sydney’s south, Blackfish Café & Grill offers waterfront dining along the Georges River in Como. With its spacious outdoor seating area shaded by trees, this is the perfect casual spot for a relaxed brunch or lunch.

The menu features classic Australian café dishes, with highlights like crispy soft-shell crab burgers, smoked salmon eggs benedict, and BBQ lamb skewers. The river views, friendly service, and easy-going atmosphere make it a great family-friendly option.

📍 Location: Carinya St, Como NSW 2226
💰 Budget: $20-$40 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:30 AM – 3:00 PM
📌 Booking: Recommended for weekend brunch
⭐ Review: “A peaceful café by the water with delicious food and great coffee. A must-visit in the south.” – Natalie W.
🌍 Website: https://www.blackfishcafe.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9528 3344

11. Pilu at Freshwater – A Sardinian Escape Overlooking the Beach

Nestled on the cliffs above Freshwater Beach, Pilu offers a high-end Italian dining experience with unbeatable ocean views. The setting is elegant but relaxed, housed in a beautiful heritage-listed weatherboard beach house with panoramic windows.

The menu is a love letter to Sardinian cuisine, featuring dishes like slow-roasted suckling pig with myrtle and crisp-skinned kingfish with fregola pasta. Pilu is perfect for romantic dinners and special occasions, with a wine list that showcases the best Italian and Australian vintages.

📍 Location: Moore Rd, Freshwater NSW 2096
💰 Budget: $70-$150 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📌 Booking: Essential for lunch and dinner
⭐ Review: “Pilu is a true taste of Sardinia with some of the best ocean views in Sydney. The food is as breathtaking as the scenery.” – Anthony R.
🌍 Website: https://www.pilu.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9938 3331

12. Hugos Manly – A Harbourside Pizza Institution

Hugos Manly is a Sydney dining icon, serving award-winning pizzas and modern Italian dishes right on the water at Manly Wharf. The restaurant’s open-air layout and relaxed yet stylish ambiance make it perfect for sunset cocktails and long lunches by the harbour.

Their truffle-infused mushroom pizza, crispy calamari, and slow-roasted lamb shoulder are standouts. The drink menu includes seasonal spritzes, local wines, and signature cocktails, making Hugos a favourite weekend hangout.

📍 Location: Manly Wharf, East Esplanade, Manly NSW 2095
💰 Budget: $40-$80 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM – Late
📌 Booking: Strongly recommended for weekends
⭐ Review: “Incredible pizzas, excellent cocktails, and the best harbour views in Manly. Always a winner.” – Chloe M.
🌍 Website: https://www.hugos.com.au/manly
📞 Phone: +61 2 8116 8555

13. Ripples Chowder Bay – A Hidden Waterfront Gem

For one of Sydney’s best-kept dining secrets, head to Ripples Chowder Bay, a charming waterfront bistro tucked away in Mosman. The restored naval building adds a touch of history, while the outdoor seating area offers stunning views over Sydney Harbour.

The menu highlights modern Australian dishes with a seafood focus, such as pan-seared scallops with sweet corn puree, spanner crab pasta, and twice-cooked pork belly. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or a romantic dinner with a view.

📍 Location: Building 7, Chowder Bay Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $50-$90 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
📌 Booking: Essential for dinner
⭐ Review: “A peaceful escape with gorgeous views and impeccable seafood. Well worth the trip.” – Simon W.
🌍 Website: https://www.rippleschowderbay.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9960 3000

14. Molo Bar – An Italian Aperitivo Spot Overlooking the Marina

Set within Woolloomooloo’s iconic Finger Wharf, Molo Bar is a laid-back Italian-style aperitivo bar with front-row views of Sydney’s luxury yachts and sparkling harbour waters.

The menu focuses on small plates and light bites, including burrata with heirloom tomatoes, beef carpaccio, and freshly shucked oysters. The drinks list is a love letter to Italian spritzes, featuring Aperol, Campari, and Limoncello-based cocktails.

📍 Location: 6 Cowper Wharf Rd, Woolloomooloo NSW 2011
💰 Budget: $30-$60 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📌 Booking: Recommended for sunset sessions
⭐ Review: “The perfect pre-dinner drink spot with stunning views and fantastic Italian snacks.” – Isabella K.
🌍 Website: https://www.molobar.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9332 3800

15. The Lookout Echo Point – The Best View of the Blue Mountains

While not in Sydney itself, The Lookout Echo Point deserves a mention for its unbeatable panoramic views over the Blue Mountains’ Three Sisters rock formation. Located right at Echo Point, it’s the ultimate scenic dining experience for those taking a day trip from Sydney.

The menu features modern Australian café fare, with highlights like braised beef pies, ricotta hotcakes, and crispy skin barramundi. Enjoy your meal on the outdoor terrace with sweeping views of the valley.

📍 Location: 33 Echo Point Rd, Katoomba NSW 2780
💰 Budget: $25-$50 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
📌 Booking: Recommended for lunch
⭐ Review: “An unforgettable dining experience with breathtaking views over the Blue Mountains.” – Daniel S.
🌍 Website: https://www.thelookoutechopoint.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 4782 4000

16. Manly Greenhouse – Rooftop Dining Overlooking Manly Beach

Spread across three levels, Manly Greenhouse offers casual beachside eats on the ground floor, a stylish bistro on the middle level, and a rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views. The rooftop, with its coastal-chic décor and retractable glass ceiling, is the perfect spot for sunset cocktails and fresh seafood.

The menu focuses on modern Australian coastal cuisine, featuring dishes like woodfired prawns with garlic butter, grilled snapper with salsa verde, and charred octopus with nduja aioli. The cocktail menu is impressive, with fresh tropical flavours that pair perfectly with the beach setting.

📍 Location: 36-38 South Steyne, Manly NSW 2095
💰 Budget: $40-$70 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – Late
📌 Booking: Recommended for rooftop dining
⭐ Review: “The views, the cocktails, and the seafood—it doesn’t get better than this for a beachside dining experience.” – Olivia R.
🌍 Website: https://www.manlygreenhouse.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9977 0919

17. Ormeggio at The Spit – Award-Winning Italian with a Water View

For a high-end dining experience by the water, Ormeggio at The Spit delivers top-tier Italian food with stunning marina views. The sleek, modern interior and floor-to-ceiling windows make it one of Sydney’s best special occasion dining spots.

The menu is seafood-focused, refined, and seasonal, with dishes like kingfish crudo with citrus dressing, charcoal-grilled Moreton Bay bugs, and saffron risotto with blue swimmer crab. Ormeggio is also famous for its expertly crafted pasta dishes and indulgent desserts.

📍 Location: D’Albora Marina, Spit Rd, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $70-$150 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📌 Booking: Essential for dinner and weekends
⭐ Review: “A flawless dining experience—impeccable food, stunning views, and perfect service.” – Jacob L.
🌍 Website: https://www.ormeggio.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9969 4088

18. The Boathouse Balmoral Beach – Relaxed Elegance by the Water

With sweeping views of Balmoral Beach, The Boathouse Balmoral is a stylish yet laid-back spot that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a long afternoon drink. Its bright and airy beach house feel, with timber furniture, fresh flowers, and soft pastel hues, creates a relaxed holiday vibe.

The menu highlights fresh seafood and vibrant, seasonal produce, with standouts like grilled king prawns with avocado salsa, fish and chips, and their famous snapper burger. It’s a must-visit for those looking to enjoy a casual meal with a beautiful beach view.

📍 Location: 2 The Esplanade, Mosman NSW 2088
💰 Budget: $30-$60 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
📌 Booking: No reservations; walk-ins only
⭐ Review: “A little slice of paradise! Beautiful beach views, fresh seafood, and great coffee.” – Natalie H.
🌍 Website: https://www.theboathousebb.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9974 5440

19. Jonah’s – Cliffside Dining Overlooking Whale Beach

One of Australia’s most iconic restaurants, Jonah’s offers five-star dining with some of the most breathtaking views in Sydney. Perched on the cliffs above Whale Beach, the restaurant provides uninterrupted ocean panoramas, making it a top choice for luxury dining.

The menu showcases modern Australian cuisine with a focus on seafood, featuring dishes like lobster tagliolini, pan-seared scallops with truffle butter, and roast duck with cherry jus. The wine list is extensive, featuring over 1,500 labels from Australia and Europe.

📍 Location: 69 Bynya Rd, Palm Beach NSW 2108
💰 Budget: $100-$200 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📌 Booking: Essential for all seatings
⭐ Review: “A once-in-a-lifetime dining experience—world-class food, impeccable service, and the most stunning ocean views.” – Alexander T.
🌍 Website: https://www.jonahs.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9974 5599

20. Opera Bar – The Best Harbourside Vibe in Sydney

No list of waterfront dining in Sydney would be complete without Opera Bar, located right beneath the Sydney Opera House. With its vibrant atmosphere, unbeatable views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and lively crowd, this is the ultimate spot for a drink and a bite with a view.

The menu is casual yet high quality, featuring oysters, prawn rolls, charcuterie boards, and gourmet burgers. The cocktails are some of the best in the city, making Opera Bar the perfect place to start or end your night.

📍 Location: Lower Concourse Level, Sydney Opera House, Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000
💰 Budget: $25-$60 per person
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:30 AM – Late
📌 Booking: No reservations; walk-ins only
⭐ Review: “Sydney’s best spot for a drink and a view. The vibe is always lively, and the location is unbeatable.” – Ellie G.
🌍 Website: https://www.operabar.com.au
📞 Phone: +61 2 9247 1666

Sydney is one of the best cities in the world for waterfront dining, offering everything from casual beachside eateries to world-class fine dining with breathtaking views. Whether you're after a relaxed brunch by the ocean, a long seafood lunch by the harbour, or an elegant dinner with panoramic city views, these 20 restaurants offer unforgettable dining experiences with some of the best scenery in Australia.

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