There’s something undeniably special about dining with a spectacular view - whether it's the ocean breeze on your face, a sweeping mountain landscape, or a golden sunset over a pristine beach. These five venues offer more than just great food; they provide an experience where scenery and flavour come together in perfect harmony.
A staple on Noosa’s iconic Hastings Street, Bistro C is the kind of place that turns lunch into an all-day affair. With uninterrupted views over Laguna Bay, this waterfront restaurant blends a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, drawing in both stylish locals and visitors who appreciate the finer things in life. The airy, open-plan space takes inspiration from its coastal surroundings, featuring contemporary beachside decor and floor-to-ceiling windows to bring the outside in.
The menu is a love letter to fresh, seasonal ingredients, with an ever-changing selection of dishes that showcase local produce. Start with tender calamari accompanied by sweet chilli, lemon and coriander, or opt for seared scallops paired with morcilla sausage, cauliflower purée and Pedro Ximenez. Mains like the miso-glazed salmon with ramen noodles, shiitake mushrooms and green tea ginger dashi highlight the kitchen’s knack for balancing bold, umami-rich flavours, while the char-grilled eye fillet with pressed potato and leek terrine, bacon bourbon jam and sticky jus is a must for meat lovers.
Pacific Hotel Restaurant – Yamba, NSW
If you’re searching for a restaurant with the best ocean view in Australia, the Pacific Hotel in Yamba might just be it. Perched dramatically on the escarpment, this historic venue offers panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean that are simply breathtaking. The old-world charm of the hotel blends seamlessly with a relaxed coastal atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind with a cold beer, a glass of wine and a plate of beautifully prepared food.
The menu takes inspiration from global flavours while staying true to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Kick things off with crispy Szechuan chilli squid served alongside wombok slaw and aioli, or indulge in Japanese fried chicken with shallots and Kewpie mayo. The creamy local prawns, bathed in a garlic and white wine sauce and served with jasmine rice, parsley and lemon, are a standout, while the port and red wine braised lamb shank with mashed potato and peas is the definition of comfort food done right.
The Kiosk Floreat Beach – City Beach, WA
For a laid-back coastal dining experience that doesn’t skimp on quality, The Kiosk Floreat Beach is a local favourite. Since 2008, this Perth hotspot has been serving up some of the best beachside breakfasts, lunches and dinners, all with a prime view of the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or settling in for a long, leisurely meal, the relaxed atmosphere and stunning seaside backdrop make every visit feel like a mini getaway.
With a focus on fresh, vibrant flavours, the menu is as enticing as the view. Try the Exmouth ginger prawn salad, a beautifully balanced dish featuring avocado, fennel, radish, walnut, oranges and a carrot miso dressing. If you're after something heartier, the striploin steak sandwich - layered with Swiss cheese, relish, caramelised onions and aioli - hits all the right notes. For a true feast, the perfectly grilled Scotch fillet with chips, salad, garlic broccolini and gravy is a winner, while the grilled lamb loin chops with vegetable couscous and lemon thyme gravy offer a taste of Summer on a plate.
For those who prefer mountain vistas to ocean views, Embers Grill at Fairmont Resort & Spa Blue Mountains is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of Leura, this elegant dining spot boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the breathtaking, plunging valleys of the Blue Mountains. The lodge-style interior, complete with an open fireplace, dark timber furnishings and statement chandeliers, adds a touch of warmth and luxury to the experience.
The all-day menu offers a mix of classic grill dishes with a refined twist. Start with a bold and flavourful beef tartare, served with egg yolk jam, salt and vinegar crisps and a touch of caviar. The pork cutlet, accompanied by eggplant, Szechuan pepper, apple chutney and red wine jus, is a beautifully balanced main, while the butternut gnocchi with pumpkin purée, candied pepitas and Grana Padano is a rich, comforting option for those after something meat-free. The Angus Reserve Porterhouse, served with potato Dauphinoise, Dutch carrots and jus, is a standout for steak lovers, perfectly cooked and packed with deep, smoky flavours.
Sandbar Restaurant & Bar – Huskisson, NSW
Set against the stunning backdrop of Jervis Bay, Sandbar Restaurant & Bar is an idyllic escape on the South Coast. Whether you’re dining alfresco on the breezy terrace or settling into the chic, beach-inspired interiors with crisp white decor and lush greenery, this venue oozes coastal charm. The atmosphere is casual yet refined, making it an ideal spot for long lunches and relaxed evening meals.
The concise yet carefully curated menu champions fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start with a beautifully plated salmon tartare, accompanied by pickled ginger, radish and a light sesame dressing, or opt for the Sandbar prawn cocktail with chilled cucumber and red vein sorrel. The fresh pappardelle pasta, tossed with prawns, chorizo, adjika, rocket and Persian feta, delivers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess. Meanwhile, the salted lamb backstrap with spiced carrots, floretto and honey glaze showcases the kitchen’s ability to elevate classic ingredients into something truly special.
Whether it’s ocean waves lapping at the shore, rugged mountain landscapes stretching into the distance, or the sun dipping below the horizon, these restaurants prove that great food tastes even better with a view. Next time you're planning a meal to remember, consider one of these spectacular venues - where the scenery is just as impressive as what’s on the plate.
