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One of the best parts about living in a country girt by sea is we have an almost endless supply and variety of fresh seafood at our fingertips. Between Cairns in far north Queensland and Eden at the bottom of NSW, Australia is blessed with hundreds of restaurants serving up prawns, oysters, and the catch of the day. Here are five that never fail to impress.
English celebrity chef Rick Stein is part Australian these days and the culinary genius behind this seafood restaurant in Mollymook. The menu runs the gamut from oysters to kingfish, with sommeliers on hand to recommend wine pairings. If that sounds too fancy, the Rooftop Bar & Grill is also on-site and has plenty to interest seafoodies.
Anyone who loves oysters is spoiled for choice on the NSW south coast. What sets The Oyster Farmers Daughter apart is its location on the leafy shores of Wagonga Inlet, lending it a secluded and summery feel. The oyster menu boasts exotic accompaniments, plus there are Moreton Bay bugs, scallops, prawns and even classic fish and chips.
An undervalued part of a great dining experience is the view out the window – and few offer a more appealing aspect than this restaurant. Overlooking its namesake waterway, The River Moruya has a menu that includes rock oysters, prawns, octopus, blue swimmer crab linguine, and whatever fish is available from the local market that day.
Nestled in Nelson Bay, Sandpipers is a cosy, family owned and operated restaurant serving the freshest local seafood and produce. With a seasonal menu there is always something new to try and the relaxed atmosphere makes it the ideal place for the whole family to indulge. Expect personalised service and an enjoyable experience, whether it's an intimate dinner, group booking or celebratory event. Best of all, NRMA members get 25 per cent off their total bill, up to $50 – just redeem using the My NRMA app.
Grunske’s is both a fresh fish market and restaurant perched over the Burnett River, which means your meal could still be flapping when it hits the frypan. With a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, the restaurant is open for lunch 10am-3pm Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, as well as dinner (until 8pm) on Friday and Saturday.
