Your guide to waterside restaurants and cafe across Newcastle, and Lake Macquarie

Whether Newcastle’s beaches and harbour are your go-to, or Lake Mac is more your backyard, one thing’s for sure - we are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining by the water.

One waterside pocket of Newcastle that has seen a remarkable revival is the Honeysuckle precinct, and restaurateurs Garry and Melissa Risteski haven’t just watched the change unfold, they’ve played a key role in shaping it.

"When we opened The Kingfish, Honeysuckle was only beginning to find its identity,” Garry says.

“Since then, the precinct has completely transformed, and guest expectations have risen with it, in a really positive way. That push inspires us to keep elevating what we do. At The Kingfish, our focus is simple: fresh, local seafood delivered with an easygoing coastal feel. But behind that simplicity is a real ambition, we strive to serve the best seafood experience in the region, every single day.” 
 
Melissa adds, “Blanca allowed us to explore a different side of waterfront dining, bringing something new to the foreshore while complementing what The Kingfish is known for.

"And with a new venue set to open in 2026, we’re continuing to reinvest because we believe deeply in the future of Honeysuckle."

It’s an exciting time for waterfront dining in Newcastle, and we’re proud to be part of the momentum shaping what comes next.”

NEWCASTLE 

The Kingfish
Boasting a comprehensive and well-balanced menu, The Kingfish serves up fresh, quality seafood, with Mediterranean-inspired flavours. There's plenty of small and large plates on offer, as well as five different types of seafood platter – including a vegan one!
Where: Unit 19/15-17 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

7 Cutz Steakhouse
A stunning, South African-inspired steakhouse popped up at Honeysuckle right at the end of December 2024. First established in Wollongong, 7 Cutz Steakhouse brings a vibrant combination of steaks and ribs in a premium dining atmosphere.
Where: 33 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle 

Âpé Yakitori Bar
Brought to you by the experienced team behind Nagisa and Susuru, you can be assured Âpé Yakitori Bar will deliver a multi-sensory drinking and dining experience. Think tasty morsels of Japanese food, well-crafted cocktails, and plenty of sake.
Where: The Boardwalk, 3N/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Beachlife at Newcastle SLSC
Open every weekend throughout the surf life saving season, Beachlife offers up cheap drinks served ice-cold, all your favourite beach eats, regular live music and the best view in town, and best yet 100% of profits go back into the club.
Where: 40 Shortland Esplanade, Newcastle

Blanca
Inspired by the coastlines of Greece, Sicily, and Turkey, Blanca invites you in for a European summer dining experience in the harbourside Honeysuckle precinct.
Where: 2/11 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Casa Nova Italian
Delicious woodfired pizza and enticing handmade pasta await at Casa Nova Italian Restaurant and Bar.
Where: 20/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Customs House Hotel
Customs House Hotel offers up seasonal Mediterranean meals and fine wine in an elegant 1877 building with a decadent terrace. Enjoy with a drink in hand as the beer garden comes alive of a late afternoon.
Where: 1 Bond St, Newcastle

Harbour Bar
Located along the strip of restaurants in Honeysuckle, Harbour Bar is a great spot to enjoy an afternoon session as you watch the sunset over Newcastle Harbour.
Where: 1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Honeysuckle Hotel
An mix of modern, rustic, and industrial design, Honeysuckle Hotel stands tall on the shoreline of Newcastle Harbour with spectacular waterfront views.
Where: Lee Wharf, Lot 31 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Merewether Surfhouse Beach Bar
Merewether Surfhouse Beach bar is a triple threat: it’s got unparalleled views, great food & drink, and top-tier coastal vibes. Stop by for $5 tacos from 3pm-5pm, Wednesday to Sunday.
Where: Merewether Surfhouse Lower Level | 5 Henderson Pde, Merewether

Merewether Surfhouse
Can you get a much better view of the Newcastle coastline than from the top of Merewether Surfhouse? Spending an afternoon at the bar or restaurant on a sunny day is an ideal date or friend catch-up.
Where: 5 Henderson Pde, Merewether

MoneyPenny
Another gem along the Honeysuckle strip, MoneyPenny is your go-to for retro harbourside vibes and some of the most quirky cocktails you can get your hands on in Newcastle.
Where: 1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Nagisa
The contemporary Japanese cuisine at Nagisa is a favourite amongst serious foodies, and with a view over the harbour you’ve got it all – good food, good drinks, and good views!
Where: 2/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Nautica
Located within Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, Nautica offers a diverse menu with chef Luke Carpenter at the helm. Sit inside if the weather is rough, or head out into the courtyard basking in the sunshine and watching the boats pull in.
Where: 95 Hannell St, Wickham

Nioka
One of Honeysucke's newest additions, Nioka isn't just about great food – the venue also features a Whiskey & Cocktail Bar, offering an extensive selection of fine whiskies and expertely crafted cocktails. 
Where: 1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Oceane Hotel
This new harbourside hotspot offers an impeccable blend of sophistication, coastal charm, and vibrant experiences.
Where: 29 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Queens Wharf Hotel
Head to Queens Wharf Hotel to dine and drink right on the harbour. Soak up the fresh air while you enjoy seafood, pub classics, and of course, cocktails.
Where: 150 Wharf Rd, Newcastle

Restaurant at Noah’s On The Beach
Watch the waves of Newcastle Beach at the restaurant at Noah’s On The Beach. This spot offers buffet breakfast as well as a la carte lunch and dinner.
Where: 29 Zaara St, Newcastle East

Rustica
Rustica is an Mediterranean dining experience unlike any other in Newcastle. With expansive views over Newcastle Beach and a unique, stunning interior, it’s a venue sure to wow.
Where: 2/1 King St, Newcastle East

Scratchleys
It needs no introduction – Scratchleys is one of Newcastle's most iconic waterfront venues and is known across town for its seafood. Order a seafood platter, then sit back and relax as you watch the world go by.
Where: 200 Wharf Rd, Newcastle

Signal Box
Dine-in one of Newcastle’s most historic buildings that has been meticulously repurposed as Signal Box, a restaurant specialising in seafood. Sit up the top on a nice day for the best views!
Where: 155 Wharf Rd, Newcastle

The Dockyard
For a casual drink on the harbour, you can't go past The Dockyard. Keep an eye out for its weekly cocktail special to snag a great deal.
Where: 13/1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle

Wharf 350 Bar & Restaurant
With prime positioning on the Honeysuckle promenade inside Rydges Newcastle and a breathtaking vista of the harbour, Wharf 350 is something to be experienced. It's recently had a revamp, so head in for cocktails and bar bites, or an indulgent meal.
Where: 350 Wharf Rd, Newcastle

LAKE MACQUARIE

8 at Trinity
Experience Lake Macquarie’s modern contemporary Australian restaurant situated right on the waterfront at Trinity Point. The fitout is impressive, as are the views and the huge, comprehensive menu.
Where: 81 Trinity Point Dr, Morisset Park

Brownsugar Restaurant
This modern restaurant features seasonal Australian cuisine in a sleek space with contemporary lighting and water views across the lake from Warners Bay.
Where: King St & The Esp, Warners Bay

Café Déja Vu
Overlooking the lake, this cosy café serves quality coffee, fresh juices, and tasty breakfasts and lunches, with Mediterranean-inspired dinners that make it a warm, welcoming spot for friends and family.
Where: 20B Victory Parade, Toronto

Cams Wharf Tavern
Set on the shores of Lake Macquarie within Rafferty’s Resort, this relaxed tavern serves fresh seafood and classic pub favourites, all enjoyed with stunning water views and warm, welcoming service.
Where: 1 Wild Duck Dr, Cams Wharf 

Casa Nova Italian Restaurant
Bringing people together over handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, great wine, and indulgent desserts, this warm and welcoming spot offers vibrant Italian dining perfect for date nights, family meals, or evenings with friends.
Where: 24 Victory Parade, Toronto

Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows
Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows is an ideal spot to enjoy a refreshing icy cold drink, a long lunch, or an out-of-town beach getaway. Situated right off of Caves Beach, you'll get the fresh ocean breeze and coastal views.
Where: 27 Mawson Cl, Caves Beach

Crusoe’s on the Lake
Crusoe's on the Lake sits on the edge of Lake Macquarie right off of the Pacific Highway in Belmont and has taken full advantage of its location. The massive deck space is just calling for guests to enjoy a long lunch or afternoon session to take in that gorgeous sunset over Lake Macquarie.
Where: Ada St, Belmont

Emerson's on the Lake
The menu at Emerson’s on the Lake reflects Emerson’s continuous commitment to quality food. An expansive menu is offered for the restaurant, and updated every three to four days, alongside a separate menu for more casual dining in the club space.
Where: 6 Arnott Ave, Toronto

Greg & Audreys
Step inside a nostalgic 1950s-style diner serving juicy burgers, creamy shakes, and a colourful lineup of house-made gelato, all crafted to deliver a fun, flavour-packed trip down memory lane.
Where: 2/32 Victory Parade, Toronto

Home at the Bay
Set along the shores of Warners Bay, this lakeside spot serves standout breakfasts, fresh lunches, and wood-fired pizzas with cocktails, offering relaxed dining, warm service, and stunning bay views.
Where: 462 The Esplanade, Warners Bay

Martha
Martha is Belmont 16s Sailing Club's stunning new restaurant, introduced as part of a huge upgrade to the iconic club. Soak up panoramic views of Lake Macquarie while you dine on Mediterranean food and sip cocktails.
Where: Level 1 Belmont 16s, The Parade, Belmont

Pippi’s at the Point
Sit back and enjoy the absolutely spectacular views whilst your ears take in the live music and your tastebuds enjoy the seafood menu and all the best cocktails, beers, and wines at Pippi's at the Point.
Where: 199 Main Rd, Speers Point

Swansea RSL
Offering absolute waterfront dining with stunning channel views Swansea RSL features multiple outdoor decks, relaxed club facilities, great eats, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Where: 5 Bridge St, Swansea 

Toronto Thai
Blending time-honoured Thai techniques with modern flavours, this vibrant spot serves creative, flavour-packed dishes that fuse tradition with innovation for a deliciously unique dining experience.
Where: 4/157 Brighton Ave, Toronto

The Gunyah
Just up the road from Crusoe’s on the Lake, The Gunyah is a favourite local pub featuring all your usual pub feeds and a view that has one of the best sunsets over Lake Macquarie.
Where: 644 Pacific Hwy, Belmont

TINTA Belmont
TINTA Belmont certainly makes the most of its waterfront vantage point. Sitting on the balcony on a sunny day eating seafood is a great way to relax and come together with friends.
Where: 690 Pacific Hwy, Belmont

Toronto Hotel
Enjoy lakeside views at the historic Toronto Hotel, home to a lively bistro, top beer garden, live sport, TAB facilities, a renowned bottleshop, and welcoming community vibes.
Where: 74 Victory Parade, Toronto

Valentine Bowling Club
A welcoming lakeside club offering modern dining, a refreshed bar and alfresco area, entertainment facilities, and quality bowling greens, bringing locals together for food, fun, and community connection.
Where: 17A Valentine Cres, Valentine 

Your guide to the best waterside dining across Newcastle, and Lake Macquarie

From bustling harbourside hotspots to laidback lakeside gems, Newcastle and Lake Mac is spoiled for choice when it comes to dining by the water. This guide explores the region’s most loved waterfront restaurants, bars and cafés, and the many coastal spots perfect for long lunches, sunset drinks or a relaxed meal by the water. Whether you’re craving seafood, cocktails or a breezy brunch, there’s a scenic table waiting for you.