The Best Waterfront Restaurants in Sydney

Sydney’s waterfront dining offers stunning views and vibrant atmospheres, making it the ultimate spot for unforgettable meals and experiences.
Sydney’s dining scene is world-renowned for its spectacular waterfront restaurants, where mouthwatering flavors meet breathtaking views of the harbor or the ocean. Imagine savoring a delicious meal while taking in the sight of sparkling blue waters, from Bondi’s beachside charm to the serene harbor vistas. Whether you're craving a modern Aussie feast or something more Mediterranean-inspired, Sydney's waterfront restaurants promise unforgettable dining experiences. So, for your next memorable gathering, why not indulge in a meal with a view?

Here’s our curated list of the best waterfront dining spots in Sydney. Get ready to indulge your senses and be carried away by these culinary gems!

A Glamorous Coastal Italian Feast with A-List Charm
Bondi’s iconic restaurant, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar brings together stunning coastal views and elegant Italian-inspired cuisine. After a sleek 2022 makeover, the restaurant is more mesmerizing than ever, featuring a glass seafood counter and panoramic views of Bondi Beach. Whether it’s a buttery vongole spaghetti or grilled octopus with Goolwa Pipis, Icebergs offers a taste of la dolce vita in every bite. Don’t forget to try their dreamy cheesecake for dessert!

Highlights

• Coastal Italian dishes
• Spectacular Bondi Beach views
• A-list celebrity hotspot

A Legacy of Seasonal, Ethical Dining by the Beach
For over 30 years, Sean’s Panorama has been a beloved Bondi institution. This is one of the top places to eat in Sydney, and it prides itself on using local, ethical, and seasonal produce to create flavorful meals. The three-course menu is constantly evolving, and highlights include house-made butter with bread and pistachio pesto, as well as a curated selection of local wines. Each meal is a reflection of Sean’s commitment to honest, high-quality food.

Highlights

• Seasonal, local, and ethical dishes
• A cozy, long-standing Bondi favorite
• Great wine-by-the-glass selection

Relaxed Dining by The Coast
Located near the stunning Manly Beach, The Boathouse Shelly Beach offers a laid-back vibe with some of the most breathtaking views in Sydney. Whether you're enjoying a bacon-and-egg breakfast or a crispy beer-battered flathead for dinner, this spot combines great food with even greater scenery. Sunset cocktails on the deck make it the perfect spot to wind down after a day at the beach.

Highlights

• Relaxed beachside dining
• Fresh seafood and breakfast delights
• Scenic views of the coast

Iconic Mediterranean Architecture Meets Modern Dining
The Bathers’ Pavilion has long been a north-side favorite, with its stunning 1920s Mediterranean architecture and stunning beachfront location. After a recent renovation, this restaurant now features a chef’s lounge and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views. Expect to enjoy dishes like hand-cut noodles with spanner crab and decadent banana ice cream for dessert for some nice fine dining in Sydney. The newly invigorated space honors its roots while offering fresh and innovative dining options.

Highlights

• Mediterranean-inspired design and cuisine
• Scenic rooftop terrace
• A perfect balance of classic and contemporary dishes

Mediterranean Vibes in a Beachside Paradise
Bringing a slice of the Mediterranean to Sydney’s shores, St Siandra is a newer addition to the dining scene in Mosman. With its breezy, beachside ambiance, St Siandra serves up an unforgettable seafood feast. From seven-spice Moreton Bay bugs to butter-poached lobster tails, every dish celebrates the best of the sea. If arriving by boat is your style, St Siandra even offers two moorings for the ultimate waterfront dining experience.

Highlights

• Mediterranean flavors with fresh seafood
• Boat moorings for a unique arrival experience
• Gorgeous beachside setting

An Exclusive Six-Course Dining Experience by Boat or Seaplane
For a truly memorable meal, head to Berowra Waters Inn, where you'll enjoy a six-course degustation menu crafted by renowned chef Brian Geraghty. The restaurant’s stunning riverside setting is accessible only by boat or seaplane, adding an extra layer of exclusivity to your dining experience. With dishes like crostini with deep-fried oysters and smoked trout, every course will excite your palate.

Highlights

• Accessible by seaplane or boat
• A luxurious six-course degustation
• Scenic riverside setting

Luxe Dining with a Beachside Vibe
Mimi’s in Coogee combines opulent dining with a relaxed coastal atmosphere. Executive Chef Jordan Toft's exclusive menu showcases fresh, live seafood, including delicacies like sea urchins and mud crabs, expertly prepared to highlight their natural flavors as well as signature dishes like whole King George Whiting with buttery pipi broth. Mimi’s is the place to indulge in the finer things while soaking up Coogee’s beachside charm.

Highlights

• Luxe seafood dining with a coastal flair
• Stunning views of Coogee Beach
• Signature dishes like King George Whiting and pipi broth

Fine Dining with a View of the Opera House
Located within the Sydney Opera House, Bennelong offers a world-class dining experience with unbeatable views of the harbor and the iconic sails. While portions may be small, the flavors are bold and unforgettable. Indulge in dishes like signature smoked beef and fresh seafood, all prepared to highlight Australia’s finest produce.

Highlights

• Iconic location within the Opera House
• Bold and flavorful fine dining
• Unbeatable harbor views

Australia’s Largest Beachside Restaurant
Promenade Bondi Beach, located in the historic Bondi Pavilion, offers a vibrant dining experience with freshly baked flatbreads, seafood, and hand-crafted pasta. Signature dishes like seafood brioche bug toast and crispy Aquna Murray cod will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Bondi’s beach culture.

Highlights

• Located in the iconic Bondi Pavilion
• Delicious seafood and pasta dishes
• A lively beachside atmosphere

The Ultimate Beachside Dining Experience
Manly Pavilion offers stunning views of both the Manly coast and the CBD skyline. The menu is seafood-focused, with dishes like grilled band snapper and house-made malloreddus pasta. Visit during happy hour for refreshing drinks and live DJ sets on the sunny deck, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a coastal walk.

Highlights

• Scenic coastal and city views
• Fresh seafood and pasta
• Happy hour with live DJs every Friday

Sydney’s waterfront dining scene is unparalleled, offering a variety of culinary delights with stunning views to match. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening by the beach or an extravagant celebration, these top waterfront restaurants in Sydney are sure to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. So, which one will you be visiting next?