16 of the best Port Stephens restaurants to book in 2025

Kristie Lau-Adams Kristie Lau-Adams
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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

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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

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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

 

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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After dark: 6 experiences along the Murray lighting up the night

(Credit: Serena Munro)

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    See the Murray region in an entirely different light by exploring its night-time experiences and attractions.

    By day, the mighty Murray River is a majestic and ever-changing sight, with river red gums and wetlands stretching along 2500 kilometres. But by night, its cities, towns, villages and landscapes totally transform.

    From Albury Wodonga to Mildura, and everywhere in between, you’ll be in for a multi-sensory and memorable treat encompassing mesmerising light shows, guided ghost tours and vibrant celebrations that capture the nocturnal magic of the river.

    This is no ordinary nighttime adventure; the region becomes an entirely different world when the sun sets. Discover six must-do activities along the Murray that can only be enjoyed after dark.

    1. Share in ghostly tales

    Port After Dark tour Murray at night
    Hold on to your nerve when learning local ghost stories. (Credit: Campaspe Shire Council)

    If you’re up for something a little more spine-tingling, Port After Dark in Echuca is your best bet. Rumour has it that the Port of Echuca Wharf and the buildings around it have long been home to lingering ghosts and mysterious events – like the vengeful woman said to haunt an old tramway bridge and spirits searching for stolen money through the town centre.

    You can hear all about them on this guided lantern tour, which takes place on Wednesday and Saturday nights after dark. The stories are atmospheric and intriguing – you may even spot a ghost or two yourself. If you’d like a more intimate experience, private tours are also available to groups of 15 or more.

    2. Wander art installations

    Bruce Munroe's Fibre Optic Symphoinic Orchestra Murray at night
    See Bruce Munro’s immersive art installation. (Credit: Serena Munro)

    Right near the Perry Sandhills, sits an experience that feels almost otherworldly. Artist Bruce Munro (of Uluru’s Field of Lights fame) has created a Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra, a network of 80 Hills Hoists illuminated with fibre optic light combined with the sounds of an orchestra. The clotheslines glow and pulse in time to the specially composed score, immersing you in a dreamscape of light and sound.

    For a different light experience, you’ll find stillness at Trail of Lights, also curated by Munro. Located just 30 minutes away on Lock Island in Mildura, thousands of lights stretch over the landscape, spotlighting both the river and a series of Munro’s sculptures. The trail is intended to be a peaceful and meditative setting for wandering and reflecting.

    3. Learn through lasers

    Heartbeat of the Murray at night
    Travel 30 million years into the Murray’s past at Heartbeat of the Murray. (Credit: Ewen Bell)

    Discover a fascinating history in this dual act of lights and projections on the banks of the Little Murray River. Legends of the Mallee is a multimedia show in Swan Hill combining lasers and lights, which tells the story of the region’s rich past. Learn about the Wamba Wamba and Wadi Wadi Peoples who first inhabited the area, as well as the figures and events that shaped the Mallee of today.

    The river steals the spotlight in the Heartbeat of the Murray, a multimedia spectacle inside the Pioneer Settlement encompassing lights, lasers, sound and special effects against the natural backdrop. Through a sequence of large-scale animated projections, you’ll go back 30 million years to explore the Murray River’s formation before travelling to the present to learn how it supports modern communities.

    4. Light up the lake

    Lake Mulwala Laser Light Show Murray at night
    Watch the lights and lasers of Lake Mulwala. (Credit: Mulwala Water Ski Club)

    Travelling with kids? Head to Yarrawonga Mulwala and nearby Lake Mulwala for the family-friendly Laser Light & Sound Show. Lights and lasers are projected over the lake and onto curtains of fog, creating a colourful and high-energy visual display. The show suits all ages and tastes, set to a mix of songs that everyone knows and loves.

    You can take in the spectacle from either the grassy banks of the lake or book a table at the Mulwala Water Ski Club’s Malibu Deck Cafe, serving pub-style food and refreshing drinks, including excellent classic cocktails. If you’re watching from the foreshore, the show is entirely free, making it a great budget-friendly option.

    5. Be captivated by local culture

    Bullanginya Dreaming Murray at night
    Soak in the culture of the Bangerang People. (Credit: Laser Vision)

    Set aside an evening to explore Bullanginya Dreaming in Cobram Barooga – you’ll want ample time to take in the stories and symbolism of this immersive laser light and sound trail. The 1.8-kilometre trail explores the storytelling and culture of the Bangerang People, who have long cared for the lands around Bullanginya Lagoon in Barooga. The trail features 12 activations – each telling a different story – and combines dramatic lights and lasers with water and fire.

    Intertwined with the visual displays are Bangerang narratives, giving you meaningful insight into the area’s Indigenous heritage. It’s designed to be explored over 90 or so minutes, encouraging you to move slowly and thoughtfully.

    6. Discover a winter glow

    winterglow festival
    See the streets of Albury Wodonga come to life after dark. (Credit: Visit Albury Wodonga)

    Albury Wodonga comes alive as the weather drops, with an annual celebration of the season on Saturday, 15 August. WinterGlow takes over the CBD and features a vibrant program of things to see, do, learn, eat and drink.

    Take part in hands-on workshops that let you try different art forms and crafts. Feast on street food and winter warmers from local eateries. Browse for artisan wares at the night markets. Watch musical acts on the main stage. Or get involved in different activations, including a silent disco and giant maze. Artificial snow will be falling to add to the festive atmosphere.

    Even wandering the streets and laneways and soaking up the late-night energy will leave you feeling enchanted.

    Start planning a day-to-night adventure along the Murray at visitthemurray.com.au.