What’s better than fresh seafood? Enjoying it with stunning water views. From Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast, these five venues combine incredible ocean-inspired menus with picturesque settings. Whether you’re in the mood for sophisticated dining or casual bites, these restaurants promise an experience as satisfying as the food on your plate.
Pier Port Melbourne – Port Melbourne, VIC
Perched at the edge of Bay and Beach Streets, Pier Port Melbourne offers a seamless blend of waterfront charm and Melbourne’s culinary excellence. This versatile venue caters to every occasion, from relaxed beachside meals to vibrant nights at the bar, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Start with their famous Portarlington chilli mussels served in a spicy tomato broth with fries and bread. Move on to a shared slow-cooked lamb shoulder with BBQ glaze, cucumber salad and crispy fries, or savour linguine with blue swimmer crab. With the ocean breeze and city skyline in the distance, Pier Port Melbourne is perfect for any seafood lover.
Situated along Noosa’s iconic Hastings Street, Bistro C brings the ultimate coastal dining experience with views of Laguna Bay. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and award-winning cuisine, this Sunshine Coast gem combines contemporary coastal design with a menu that evolves with the seasons.
Start with seared scallops paired with morcilla sausage, cauliflower purée, green apple and Pedro Ximenez for a harmonious balance of flavours. For mains, opt for miso-glazed salmon with ramen noodles, Asian greens, and a green tea ginger dashi. Bistro C’s fresh, locally sourced ingredients and breathtaking beachfront views make it a dining experience to remember.
Wung Nam Thai Water Palace – Caloundra, QLD
For a Thai dining experience fit for royalty, head to Wung Nam Thai Water Palace on Bulcock Beach Esplanade. With panoramic water views and a menu that honours traditional Thai flavours, this Caloundra favourite has been delighting diners for over 20 years.
Kick off your feast with crab spring rolls and plum sauce, or prawn dumplings in laksa sauce. The BBQ U6 Jumbo King Prawns, marinated in oyster and soy sauce with garlic, are a must-try, served with your choice of steamed or stir-fried vegetables. With its warm ambiance and dedication to authentic Thai cuisine, Wung Nam promises a dining experience as memorable as its views.
Freewave Sushi – Lennox Head, NSW
For a relaxed dining experience in Lennox Head, Freewave Sushi delivers a fusion of Japanese flavours and coastal charm. Located on Ballina Street, this café’s rustic interiors and alfresco seating make it the perfect spot to refuel after exploring the area’s natural beauty.
Start your day with a breakfast teriyaki tofu bowl or graze on freshly made sushi like salmon and avocado. For something heartier, the seared teriyaki salmon bento box with rice, miso soup, and pickled ginger is a standout. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Freewave Sushi combines delicious food with a laid-back vibe.
Avoca Beach House – Avoca Beach, NSW
Steps away from the sand and surf, Avoca Beach House offers breathtaking views and a menu that celebrates the best of land and sea. With floor-to-ceiling glass and a relaxed coastal vibe, this seafood haven is ideal for long lunches or romantic dinners.
Indulge in a seafood platter featuring oysters, mussels, prawns, seared tuna, garlic butter scallops, Moreton Bay bug and seasonal fruit, served with aioli and cocktail sauce. For something warm, try the Sri Lankan fish and shellfish curry with steamed greens, or pressed lamb shoulder with carrot and minted mushy peas. Avoca Beach House brings fine dining to one of the Central Coast’s most iconic locations.
These coastal dining destinations pair unforgettable views with exceptional seafood, ensuring every visit feels like a mini getaway. From Melbourne’s stylish waterfront eateries to the relaxed vibes of the Sunshine Coast and Lennox Head, these venues deliver not just meals, but memories.
