Port Stephens may be a laidback, beachy region, but boy is it serious when it comes to serving up quality food. When the seafood and produce is as fresh as it is in Port Stephens, it makes sense that local restaurants have taken advantage. 

Are you looking for the best spots to dine in the area? Look no further than our guide to the best restaurants in Port Stephens, from Fingal Bay right through to Lemon Tree Passage.

Atmos

Atmos brings traditional architecture and the relaxing atmosphere of the Greek Islands right to the shores of Shoal Bay. The menu is full of modern Greek fare and flavours – exactly the sort of thing you want to eat when you're right in front of the water.
Where: 35-45 Shoal Bay Rd, Shoal Bay

Cheeky Dog

For a pub atmosphere in Soldiers Point, head to Cheeky Dog, just below Bannisters Port Stephens. Expect upmarket pub fare (go for the fresh stone-baked bread with a selection of antipasto), a dog-friendly beer garden, and live music to pair with your beverage of choice.
Where: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

Crest Birubi Beach

Perched atop Birubi Beach with 180-degree views across Stockton Sand Dunes and beyond, Crest Birubi Beach serves up casual yet quality bistro food for breakfast and lunch every day of the week, plus dinner on Fridays and Saturdays. Head in for a sunset dinner and try the seafood plate.
Where: 73 James Paterson St, Anna Bay

Julio’s

Less restaurant and more breezy poolside bar, Julio’s nevertheless cooks up some excellent Mexican-inspired fare. With dishes like prawn tacos and Mexican fried chicken on the menu, Julio’s puts a few twists on Mexican classics, but always keeps it fresh.
Where: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

Little Beach Boathouse

With a seafood restaurant upstairs and a casual waterfront bar downstairs, Little Beach Boathouse is the perfect spot for a long lunch, relaxing dinner or an evening of cocktails whilst you watch the sun go down. You might even be lucky and spot a few dolphins going past while you dine.
Where: 4 Victoria Pde, Nelson Bay

Restaurant 2317

Named after the Soldiers Point postcode, Restaurant 2317 sits pretty at Soldiers Point Marina, overlooking the water from its second-storey vantage point. The menu lets the fresh seafood and produce shine, while incorporating Asian flavours like nahm jim and miso to keep things interesting.
Where: 2D Sunset Blvde, Soldiers Point

Rick Stein at Bannisters Port Stephens

Rick Stein at Bannisters Port Stephens takes advantage of the incredible seafood sourced from the surrounding area, offering dishes like chargrilled Nelson Bay yellowfin tuna steak and Nelson Bay lobster thermidor. Enjoy your meal in the restaurant’s expansive space that blends contemporary industrial design and luxe lounge vibes.
Where: 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point

Saltwater Restaurant

Saltwater Restaurant serves up fresh, modern Australian cuisine with flavour influences from all across the globe, paired with incredible views over Fingal Beach. Think dishes like kingfish ceviche, nasi goreng, and seafood linguine.
Where: 1/3 Marine Dr, Fingal Bay

The Poyer’s

Located in Lemon Tree Passage, The Poyer's is a family-owned and operated cafe and restaurant serving up some of the most interesting seafood in Port Stephens. There’s four variations of oysters on offer, and with water views, The Poyer’s is a lovely spot to down a few with a drink.
Where: 42 Cooke Pde, Lemon Tree Passage