As Summer heats up, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than with share plates and refreshing drinks. These venues serve up a mix of vibrant flavours and inviting atmospheres, perfect for gathering with friends or family. From waterfront views to garden escapes, here are the top picks for Summer share plates.
Harbour View Hotel – The Rocks, NSW
Nestled next to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and just steps from the historic Rocks district, Harbour View Hotel on Lower Fort Street pairs stunning views with exceptional food. This historic venue boasts a rooftop terrace bar that’s perfect for soaking up the sunshine while enjoying breathtaking panoramas of Sydney Harbour. Start your culinary journey with charred octopus, squid ink caramel and nduja mayo, or indulge in pub favourites like creamy penne with chicken, bacon and mushrooms.
Perfect for groups, their share plate options include a whole rock lobster served with mornay sauce, fries and salad—ideal for summer feasting. The venue’s chic yet comfortable atmosphere, combined with its unbeatable location, ensures a dining experience that will leave a lasting impression. From casual drinks to celebratory dinners, the Harbour View Hotel sets the stage for warm-weather gatherings with style.
Quarterdeck Kitchen + Bar - Gold Coast, QLD
Set within the picturesque Gold Coast City Marina, Quarterdeck Kitchen + Bar delivers a blend of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and modern Australian innovation. This stylish waterfront venue boasts breathtaking views of luxury yachts and glistening waters, creating a tranquil yet sophisticated atmosphere. The outdoor seating area is perfect for warm summer days, while the sleek, contemporary interior offers a cosy escape for evening meals. Known for its tapas-style menu and focus on locally sourced ingredients, Quarterdeck invites diners to relax and indulge in fresh, flavourful dishes paired with specialty cocktails or fine wines.
One standout from the sharing menu is the baby octopus bruschetta. Topped with Aleppo chili, pickles, fennel, and gremolata, the dish offers a vibrant medley of Mediterranean flavours that are light yet satisfying. Perfect for pairing with a crisp white wine or a refreshing spritz, this bruschetta captures the essence of summer with its bold yet balanced taste profile.
Tucked away in the heart of the Central West, Oriana Gardens is a hidden gem offering a retro resort vibe and a culinary focus on modern Australian cuisine. Set within the lush gardens of this luxury hotel, the venue’s Summer Kitchen provides a relaxed outdoor dining experience with a touch of sophistication. Guests can enjoy wood-fired tapas, handcrafted pizzas and a variety of barbeque favourites, all complemented by expertly crafted cocktails and a curated selection of wines. The ambience is casual yet elegant, with the scent of fresh herbs and wood smoke wafting through the air.
One dish that embodies the venue’s dedication to fresh, seasonal flavours is the beef sirloin tataki. Delicately sliced and paired with citrus, ponzu, soy and scallions, this light and flavourful dish is a perfect starter for warm summer afternoons. Its balance of umami and tangy notes makes it a standout choice for those seeking a refined yet approachable sharing plate.
Medé Restaurant - Brisbane, QLD
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean coast at Medé Restaurant, a Brisbane dining destination that reimagines classic Mediterranean cuisine through a modern Australian lens. Located on the bustling Oxford Street in Bulimba, this stylish venue features sandstone walls, plush pink velvet seating and an intimate bar perfect for savouring a signature cocktail. The warm, inviting atmosphere is ideal for casual lunches, romantic evenings, or celebratory gatherings. Medé’s menu emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a culinary journey inspired by the sunlit shores of the Mediterranean.
It's hard to go past Medé’s fresh Mooloolaba king prawns. Complimented perfectly with a Tunisian spiced cocktail sauce and fresh lemon, it’s a dish that is so elegantly simple allowing the fresh prawns to take centre stage. The whole dining experience is imbued with Mediterranean flair. Sit back and enjoy the flowing food, conversations and luxuriate in the best the region has to offer.
Bar Yuki brings the vibrant spirit of Japanese izakayas to the charming town of Milton. This neighbourhood gem offers a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, where diners can enjoy curated wines, creative cocktails and a menu of Japanese-inspired small plates. The venue features an eclectic mix of live music, DJ sets and timeless vinyl records, creating an ambience that is both dynamic and welcoming. With its commitment to warm hospitality and innovative flavours, Bar Yuki is the perfect spot for Summer evenings spent sharing delicious dishes with friends.
One must-try item is the yamitsuki chiki katsu sando. This crispy chicken sandwich, served on soft fluffy white bread, is a delightful combination of crunch and tenderness. Bursting with flavour, it pairs perfectly with a craft beer or one of Bar Yuki’s signature cocktails, making it a quintessential Summer sharing plate. The challenge here is in the sharing!
