There’s something special about dining outdoors—whether it’s soaking up sea views, sipping cocktails under a lush rooftop garden, or indulging in world-class cuisine with a backdrop of rolling landscapes. Australia’s diverse dining scene offers an array of stunning alfresco spots that elevate any meal into an experience. From coastal escapes to urban rooftop gems, these venues promise a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Hotel Sorrento Restaurant – Sorrento, VIC
Perched on the clifftops of Sorrento with panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, Hotel Sorrento Restaurant is a destination that seamlessly blends history, elegance and modern Australian cuisine. Set within a limestone building that radiates old-world charm, this Mornington Peninsula icon has long been a favourite for both locals and visitors seeking a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Whether you’re basking in the afternoon sun or enjoying the sea breeze with a cocktail in hand, the alfresco dining space ensures a meal with a view is always on the menu.
The menu champions local produce, fusing international flavours into dishes that celebrate Australia’s vibrant culinary landscape. Begin with grilled octopus paired with macerated peach, radish, capers and oregano for a refreshing and flavourful start. For a hearty main, the slow-cooked lamb shoulder with apricot glaze, kipfler potatoes and herbed yoghurt is a standout, balancing rich, tender meat with fresh and zesty accompaniments.
Loop Roof – Melbourne CBD, VIC
For those who prefer their alfresco dining with a dose of urban cool, Loop Roof in Melbourne’s CBD delivers a lush, sky-high experience. Tucked away on Meyers Place, this rooftop oasis is a botanical wonderland, where a vertical garden of exotic plants—ranging from bottle trees to prickly pear cacti—creates a surreal escape from the city’s hustle. With its twin-tiered design, Loop Roof provides a unique vantage point to take in Melbourne’s skyline while enjoying creative cocktails and inventive bites.
The menu is as lively as the setting, with bold flavours that pair perfectly with the venue’s award-winning cocktails. Standout dishes include ponzu beef skewers served alongside braised daikon fukumeni, lotus root chips & ponzu shoyu, adding umami depth to each bite. For a crunchy contrast, Cantonese style duck, roast pork belly, mushroom and buttermilk fried chicken lotus leaf bao buns offer the perfect snack to graze on while taking in the view.
God’s Kitchen – Mornington, VIC
Housed in a heritage-listed former church, God’s Kitchen in Mornington offers a rustic yet inviting alfresco dining space that pairs charm with contemporary eats. With an open courtyard shaded by lush greenery and festoon lighting adding a warm glow, this local favourite is the perfect place for a long lunch or a laid-back evening with family and friends. Add in live music and a stellar selection of Mornington Peninsula wines and you have a venue that celebrates the best of the region.
The menu spans across cuisines, offering both familiar favourites and global-inspired delights. For something hearty and rich in South African heritage, try the Bunny Chow Durban—lamb curry served in a sourdough cob with a side of chutney. Or, if you’re in the mood for a taste of nostalgia, the sticky date pudding is a sweet, caramel-laden indulgence that will leave you lingering at the table just a little longer.
If you’re looking for a unique alfresco experience that transports you straight to the heart of South Africa, KG Café in Kiama is a must-visit. This laid-back eatery celebrates traditional South African flavours while offering a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The outdoor seating area, surrounded by potted greenery and traditional artwork, creates the perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal filled with bold, aromatic dishes.
South African cuisine takes centre stage here, with signature dishes that highlight the country’s diverse culinary influences. Start with bobotie—a fragrant, curried mince dish topped with a golden egg custard—before moving on to the show-stopping carnivore platter, featuring boerewors, pork and beef ribs and traditional vetkoek. For a sweet ending, don’t miss the koeksisters—sticky, syrup-drenched pastries that pair beautifully with a glass of rich Pinotage.
Eastwoods Dining – Airlie Beach, QLD
With its prime position along the iconic Airlie Esplanade, Eastwoods Dining offers an alfresco setting that perfectly complements its fresh, Asian-inspired menu. Overlooking the Whitsunday Islands, this coastal-chic venue features bi-fold doors that blur the line between indoors and out, ensuring guests can soak up tropical breezes while enjoying flavour-packed dishes. A sleek recycled timber bar adds to the relaxed yet sophisticated ambience, making it the ideal spot for an intimate dinner or a feast with friends.
The menu is a celebration of Asian flavours, balancing spice, texture and freshness in every dish. A highlight is the twice-cooked half duck, served with master stock, ginger, chilli, fresh herbs and crispy fried garlic—a dish that’s both rich in depth and vibrant in taste. If you’re in the mood for something light yet satisfying, the salt and pepper soft-shell crab with spicy som tum and green nam jim is a must-try, delivering a perfect harmony of crunch, heat and citrusy zing.
Whether it’s an oceanside retreat, a city rooftop, or a heritage hideaway, Australia offers some of the most picturesque outdoor dining experiences. These venues not only provide stunning settings but also deliver menus that elevate alfresco dining into an unforgettable event. So next time the sun is shining, grab a seat outside, order something delicious and let the scenery take your dining experience to new heights.
