16 of the best Port Stephens restaurants to book in 2025

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

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

16 of the best Port Stephens restaurants to book in 2025

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

The shortlist

1. Cheeky Dog

2. Rick Stein at Bannisters

3. The Galley Kitchen

4. The Poyer’s

5. Mavericks on the Bay

6. Julio’s at Bannisters

7. The Little Nel

8. Little Beach Boathouse

9. John Dory’s Takeaway

10. Saltwater Restaurant

11. Shoal Bay Country Club

12. Aussie Bobs Fish & Chips

13. Mod Thai

14. Crest Birubi Beach

15. Romanza Woodfire Pizza

16. Siera Seaside

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Your guide to what’s new and exciting this summer on the Central Coast

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

1. Gosford’s glow up

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

3. New Central Coast experiences

4. Central Coast accommodation

5. Shopping on the Central Coast