16 of the best Port Stephens restaurants to book in 2025

Kristie Lau-AdamsBy Kristie Lau-Adams
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From fine dining and fish and chips to everything in between, Port Stephens restaurants are diverse and ever-growing.

As you’d expect, seafood is a constant on menus in Port Stephens with chefs taking advantage of its bountiful surroundings. Plump oysters are grown just offshore and the likes of wild lobster, prawns and yellowfin tuna are plucked straight from the ocean to plate. But for those who prefer their protein from land or plant-based dining, you won’t be disappointed either. Here are the finest Port Stephens restaurants to explore in between activities.

The shortlist

Fine dining gem: The Poyer’s
Best for seafood: The Galley Kitchen
Great for special occasions: Rick Stein at Bannisters
Best family-friendly spot: Saltwater restaurant
Best for brunch: The Little Nel
Best views: Little Beach Boathouse

1. Cheeky Dog

Cheeky Dog beer garden in Port Stephens.
Nab a shady spot in the dog-friendly beer garden.

Tucked underneath Bannisters Port Stephens, one of the region’s best accommodation options, this upmarket pub is set in a stylish industrial space that’s both family-friendly and dog-friendly. Featuring an elevated bistro menu with serious European flair, the Port Stephens restaurant nails antipasto bites and crispy stone-baked pizzas.

There are also pool tables and big screens indoors, plus a beer garden with umbrellas and festoon lights. Dialling up the good vibes one step further is the live music you’ll typically find every Monday, Friday and Sunday.

Cuisine: Aussie pub fare splashed with European influences

Average price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Chilled out

Location: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

2. Rick Stein at Bannisters

Ricks Stein restaurant at Bannisters Port Stephens.
Rick Stein at Bannisters offers a fine dining experience like no other.

You can’t shout out Bannisters without giving one of the best Port Stephens restaurants, Rick Stein at Banisters , some love.

The renowned chef’s second eponymous outpost (the first remains at Mollymook) showcases his love of seafood with a seasonal menu – expect local produce fresh from the sea such as Stockton Beach pipis, Nelson Bay tuna and blue swimmer crab, as well as a selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. It’s a fine dining experience in a relaxed setting with cosy booths for small groups.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, specialising in seafood

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Elevated

Location: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

3. The Galley Kitchen

a three-tiered seafood at The Galley Kitchen, Port Stephens
Dine on flavourful seafood at the award-winning Galley Kitchen. (Image: Supplied)

Part of The Anchorage Hotel, a boutique waterfront stay in Corlette with a distinct Hamptons vibe, the award-winning Galley Kitchen offers a superb fine dining experience right off a marina. Its lavish menu is centred around locally and sustainably sourced seafood, with each dish artfully plated and layered with flavour. Post-dinner (or lunch), sink into a leather lounge at Moby’s Bar, another must-visit spot within this wonderful hotel and home to a selection of the world’s finest whiskies. It’s open from 4pm.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, specialising in seafood

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Special occasion

Location: 26 Corlette Point Rd, Corlette

4. The Poyer’s

waterfront dining at The Poyer’s, Port Stephens
Dine on Modern Australian cuisine by the water at The Poyer’s.

You’ll feel as though you’re about to sail away at The Poyer’s , located right on the water at crystal-clear Lemon Tree Passage. Featuring a dazzling scattering of locally caught seafood stars on the menu — think abalone schnitzel, blue swimmer chilli crab fettuccini and sea snails — this Port Stephens restaurant is tough to contend with. Additionally, the wine list is outstanding, dotted with mostly Australian labels (and excellent vintages) and masterful international picks.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, specialising in seafood

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Sparkling

Location: 6/44 Cook Pde, Lemon Tree Passage, Port Stephens

5. Mavericks on the Bay

Mavericks on the Bay seafood platter, Port Stephens
Tuck into a fresh seafood platter.

Positioned right on glamorous d’Albora Marina and flanked by swaying boats, Mavericks on the Bay features a diverse menu of which Port Stephens seafood is the hero. If you’re keen to steal the show, indulge in a three-tiered seafood platter with the option of upgrading to a half lobster mornay. Otherwise, more casual options span burgers, pastas and steaks. It’s also a buzzy spot to enjoy a cocktail while soaking up live music on weekends.

Cuisine: International, focused on seafood

Average price: $$$-$$$$

Atmosphere: Lively

Location: d’Albora Marina, Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay

6. Julio’s at Bannisters

tacos and cocktails at Julio’s at Bannisters
Julio’s at Bannisters serves up classic Mexican hits.

If authentic Mexican fare is what you’re craving, get yourself down to Bannisters’ other shining star. Julio’s at Bannisters , located by the pool on level 4. It bursts with flavourful dishes, including an array of flavour-crammed tacos, seafood and sides. Chase your favourites down with two styles of churros (classic or boozy, and yes, the latter is totally a thing) for a true Mexican feast.

Cuisine: Mexican

Average price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Easy and breezy

Location: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

7. The Little Nel

an alfresco dining setting at The Little Nel Cafe, Nelson Bay
Pop by The Little Nel for a relaxed brunch. (Image: Destination NSW)

Located underneath Hotel Nelson, yet another outstanding Port Stephens accommodation offering, The Little Nel  is a perfect place to lazy brunch in a sun-drenched courtyard. The breakfast menu is packed with fresh, hearty plates and almost everything’s made from scratch. Think smashed avo on sourdough and a bacon and egg roll, plus more unique options like a Thai chilli crab omelette. Hitting them up at lunch? Consider middle-of-the-day additions like curries, a brisket sandwich and beer battered fish and chips. Add in a freshly squeezed juice or coffee by Pablo & Rusty and you’ve got yourself a reliable dining winner.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Homely

Location: 3/7 Government Rd, Nelson Bay

8. Little Beach Boathouse

the Little Beach Boathouse overlooking Little Beach and Nelson Bay
Sip on a sundowner right off the marina. (Image: Destination NSW)

Perched on the waterfront at the old Little Beach Marina, Little Beach Boathouse offers both refined and casual dining. Upstairs at the venue’s hottest spot, its elegant Port Stephens restaurant offers a menu focused on fresh local produce, particularly seafood. Meanwhile, Below Deck is a casual cafe and bar downstairs and the ultimate spot for a sundowner. Pair your preferred poison with a menu of bar snacks as dusk falls over the bay.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$-$$$$ (Upstairs is markedly pricier than Below Deck)

Atmosphere: Holiday vibes

Location: 4 Victoria Pde, Nelson Bay

9. John Dory’s Takeaway

If you’re after a quick bite or have the kids in tow, takeaway is always a good choice. John Dory’s Takeaway , one of our favourite low-key Port Stephens restaurants, is conveniently located within a short walk to Nelson Bay Foreshore, so it’s the ultimate family-friendly pick. Choose from more than 10 types of burgers, just as many seafood packs and a bunch of quintessential snacks including Chicko Rolls, pluto pups and seafood sticks. Wander down to the waterfront to enjoy your spoils with a view.

Cuisine: Fish and chips

Average price: $-$$

Atmosphere: In and out

Location: Unit 3, 138 Magnus St, Nelson Bay

10. Saltwater Restaurant

Saltwater view over Fingal Bay in Port Stephens.
Sweeping sea views at Saltwater Restaurant, Fingal Bay.

Atop the surf lifesaving club at Fingal Bay, this beachside restaurant  offers panoramic views of the ocean. A simple and fresh beach-style interior, it’s a holiday haven for the entire clan. The menu is filled with everything from a classic beef burger and squid ink risotto to a wholesome ‘Happy Soul Bowl’ filled with roasted veggies, plus there’s a kid’s menu to keep the littlies satisfied. It’s a beautiful spot for a long lunch, with an extensive cocktail list that may keep you even longer.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$-$$$$

Atmosphere: Family-friendly

Location: Level 1, 3 Marine Drive, Fingal Bay

11. Shoal Bay Country Club

Shoal Bay Country Club overlooking the ocean and the restaurant with hanging plants.
Shoal Bay Country Club is the perfect beachfront dining spot for a fabulous feed.

With a history dating back to the 1930s, the ever pumping Shoal Bay Country Club  has long been a hub for social gatherings. Oozing a chic and vibrant 1950s design, it’s the place to ascend to for drinks with large groups and there are multiple places within it to find a fabulous feed.

Mermaids is open from 6:30am for great coffee and a wholesome breakfast menu, The Kitchen and Patio kicks off at 11:30am for lunch and dinner (think woodfired pizzas, seafood and premium cuts of meat) and Atmos is a taste of the Greek Islands in Shoal Bay, serving meze plates, lamb shoulder, eggplant moussaka and souvla of the day (charcoal rotisserie barbecue). Wherever you land, it’s epic and vibrant.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, however Atmos is Greek

Average price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Trendy

Location: 35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay

12. Aussie Bobs Fish & Chips

a close-up shot of Aussie Bobs Fish & Chips, Shoal Bay
Indulge in tasty Aussie Bobs Fish & Chips.

You can’t forget a name like Aussie Bobs , but that’s not the only reason people keep coming back for its deep-fried delights. Just a short stroll from the white sands of Shoal Bay, this humble shop was first established more than 100 years ago. It’s no frills but super tasty: think battered, crumbed or barbecued fish, hot chips, potato scallops, prawn cutlets, battered savs, and all your other favourite beachside grab-and-go’s.

Cuisine: Fish and chips

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: In and out

Location: 2A Tomaree Rd, Shoal Bay

13. Mod Thai

sauteing veggies in a pan at Mod Thai
Mod Thai dishes up authentic Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, green curry and Massaman beef.

The traditional Thai restaurant chain, Mod Thai , has two locations in Port Stephens: one in Shoal Bay and the other in Nelson Bay. In operation for more than 10 years, it’s a favourite with locals and visitors alike. There’s trusted classics such as Pad Thai, green curry and massaman beef, as well as vegetarian and gluten-free options, and you can choose to dine in (BYO wine), takeaway or order delivery at both locations.

Cuisine: Thai

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Fuss-free

Location: The Nelson Bay location is found at Shop 12, Nelson Bay Cinema Mall, Stockton St, Nelson Bay, while the Shoal Bay location is at 3/57 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay

14. Crest Birubi Beach

Located at the Birubi Beach Surf Club, Crest Birubi Beach is open every day for breakfast and lunch. And while the meals are always satisfying, it’s the proximity to the beach that keeps locals coming back for more. Start your day with a belly-filling Crest Big Breakfast as you watch swimmers heading in for early morning dips or whales lapping up their annual migration. Alternately, swap your coffee for a glass of wine or cider while you enjoy a relaxed lunch ocean-side. Bookings are recommended.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Local

Location: 73 James Paterson St, Anna Bay

15. Romanza Woodfire Pizza

Margarita pizza from Romanza pizzeria in Port Stephens.
Handmade, Romanza woodfired pizza.

Romanza Woodfire Pizza is a simple pizzeria in Anna Bay that serves handmade, woodfired pizzas. Order authentic Italian classics spread across 12-inch bases with topics spanning Napoli, supreme, three cheese and mushroom and beyond. In the mood for something daring? Try a gourmet variety like the lightly spiced tandoori or the hot salami Flamenco.

Cuisine: Pizza

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Takeaway

Location: 156 Gan Gan Rd, Anna Bay

16. Siera Seaside

a look inside Siera Seaside restaurant in Nelson Bay
Step into the Italian-inspired Siera Seaside restaurant at d’Albora Marina.

Transport your tastebuds to the azure-blue waters of coastal Italy at Siera Seaside , a Port Stephens restaurant located at the flashy d’Albora Marina. The crowd is always geared for a good time as large groups congregate thanks to a menu filled with authentic fare. Choose a la carte or let the team steer you with a set menu of crowd favourites including Calamaretti Fritti, pasta Marinara and gelato.

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$$-$$$$

Atmosphere: Colourful

Location: d’Albora Marina, Teramby Rd, Nelson Bay

 

Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Harbour views and seasonal luxuries: this Sydney hotel is elevating Christmas

    Aaron GillBy Aaron Gill
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    Luxury meets hyper-local hospitality with an exclusive Christmas stay package and menu you’ll want to be present for.

    An Aussie Christmas is like no other. December signals the start of summer, celebrations and festive cheer. While Mariah Carey might not have defrosted just yet, we’ve got less than 100 days left of the year. So it’s time to start planning. Christmas at Park Hyatt Sydney is reimagined with a luxurious festive stay package. Celebrate with a curated summer tote, a special seasonal menu that captures the flavours of a Sydney summer and cocktails crafted to capture the spirit of a harbourside Christmas.

    This is your sign to skip the end-of-year chaos and let Christmas be taken care of for you.

    A stay at Park Hyatt

    couple with champagne on the balcony of their park hyatt sydney room
    Gaze out from your balcony to see Sydney’s icons.

    If you love a room with a view, imagine waking up on Christmas Day to the sound of waves and a sunrise over the iconic Sydney Opera House. Step out to your private balcony to soak in the sun, and you’ll find you’re on the doorstep to the coastal cobblestone charm of Sydney’s very own Christmas boulevard, The Rocks.

    Enter Park Hyatt Sydney, a 155-room harbour-side hotel, centered in the beating heart of a historic neighbourhood, seamlessly blending life’s little luxuries with living like a local. Spend long, summer days lounging by the rooftop pool with 360-degree views of this harbour city or indulge in tailored treatments at The Spa.

    aerial of park hyatt sydney rooftop pool
    Spend summer days by the rooftop pool.

    Be seated in The Dining Room, overlooking sparkling waters, to taste the vibrancy of an Australian summer. Led by Executive Chef Tyson Gee, discover a lunch and dinner menu that heroes coastal ingredients.

    The festive stay package

    Park Hyatt Sydney has introduced a festive stay package to up the Christmas spirit. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in a guest room or suite with uninterrupted views, valet parking and a full breakfast for two in The Dining Room.

    The Summer Kit

    branded tote bag of park hyatt sydney with the sydney opera house in background
    Take home a branded tote bag.

    Because it’s an Aussie Christmas, guests booking the package will also receive a curated, limited-edition Summer Christmas kit stocked with seasonal luxuries, including the hotel’s first-ever branded merch.

    Think a signature Park Hyatt Sydney sun cap and Aesop sunscreen valued at $300, all in a branded luxury tote bag. This kit will also be available for purchase throughout December, if you’re in need of any gift ideas.

    The details

    The festive stay package applies to stays from 1 – 27 December, with a limited number of suites available. Guests can book using the exclusive offer code XMAS25 on parkhyattsydney.com . They can also call +61 2 9256 1234 or email sydney.park.accommodation@hyatt.com.

    Christmas dining

    christmas menu at the dining room restaurant in park hyatt sydney
    Taste a special Christmas menu at The Dining Room.

    For the gourmands who want to participate in the festivities but are unable to stay as an overnight guest, Park Hyatt Sydney can still be your Christmas go-to. Taste Chef Tyson Gee’s themed culinary creations throughout December .

    From 1 – 24 December, diners can book a Christmas Afternoon Tea from $95 pp. Prepare for Christmas flavours like braised turkey pie with cranberry gel, plus gingerbread and salted vanilla bûche de Noël and a chocolate hazelnut bauble for dessert.

    On Christmas Day, The Dining Room and The Living Room will both offer a five-course menu from $425 per person. Start with a glass of NV Taittinger Champagne on arrival – accompanied by Sydney’s finest seafood – and end with a reimagined mango pavlova, with rice pudding and pink peppercorn.

    “Our vision was to capture the flavours of a harbourside Australian Christmas,” says Gee. “Guests will enjoy seafood at its best, from fresh oysters to cured ocean trout, paired with tropical fruit accents and festive touches like glazed Berkshire ham and roast duck. Every dish has been imagined for a harbourside Christmas celebration.”

    Guests can also enjoy a range of seasonal cocktails crafted by Head Mixologist Kevin Botte, including the Christmas Negroni, Christmas Mulled Wine and a Christmas Cocktail/Mocktail.

    Exploring Sydney

    woman drinking festive cocktail in the dining room restaurant of park hyatt sydney
    The best of Sydney is right on your doorstep.

    For those planning a visit, Christmas at Park Hyatt Sydney means you’re perfectly situated to explore the best of Sydney.

    The hotel is mere steps away from the icons, from Sydney Opera House to the Harbour Bridge, along with the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Royal Botanic Gardens. Add open-air galleries full of murals and explore the nearby cobblestone streets.

    Head to the charming Rocks Markets, where the streets transform with seasonal Christmas creations, of the artisan and foodie variety. Then head over to Dawes Point Park for a picnic under the bridge.

    Find more 360-degree rooftop views at the Glenmore, or listen to live music at Brewhouse at Squire’s Landing from Wednesday to Sunday (times vary). There’s something for everyone.

    For more details on Christmas at Park Hyatt Sydney, visit parkhyattsydney.com or call +61 2 9256 1234.