From north of the CBD to the east, here are our picks for the city’s best dining spots with ocean views.
Sydney Harbour
Marvel at breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour at Quay, where celebrated chef Peter Gilmore crafts exquisite dishes. For a more casual yet stunning vantage point, head to Café Sydney on the roof of Customs House. Opera Bar, with its vibrant atmosphere and harbour views, is perfect for enjoying oysters and drinks while watching the ferries and yachts. Across the harbour in Milsons Point, Aqua Dining offers an intimate perspective on the Harbour Bridge, while Ripples Chowder Bay combines modern Australian cuisine with historic charm and sweeping bay views. The Barangaroo precinct, in the city, boasts an array of stylish eateries.
Eastern Suburbs
The Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, once the world’s largest wooden structure when it was built in 1915, now hosts an array of alfresco dining spots. Dress up and enjoy eateries like Otto, China Doll, Manta and Il Pontile. Catalina in Rose Bay, with its expansive patio overlooking the water, has been a local favourite for decades, while Watsons Bay Hotel offers live music and a lively atmosphere; arrive via ferry for added fun. Doyles on the Beach, a staple since 1885, serves ocean-fresh seafood just steps from the sand. Bondi’s dining scene is just as enticing. Sean’s Panorama is known for its unpretentious, delicious food and ocean views.
Northern Sydney
The Northern Beaches are home to some of Sydney’s most scenic dining spots. Ormeggio at The Spit offers impeccably prepared seafood with a picturesque view of the marina. Pilu at Freshwater serves Sardinian specialties in a stunning seaside setting, while The Newport provides a relaxed atmosphere and pizza with views over Pittwater. For a more remote dining experience, Jonah’s at Whale Beach offers breathtaking views of golden sands, and Cottage Point Inn and Berowra Waters Inn are nestled in the tranquil waterways of the Hawkesbury River. These destinations are accessible by car, boat or seaplane, making for a memorable dining adventure.