This article is brought to you by The Springs, Peats Ridge
Top Central Coast Restaurants
If you’re looking for the ultimate tick-off list of the best Central Coast restaurants to visit then here it is. From fantastic fine dining to relaxed sumptuous eats, here are our top favourite places for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks in our region.
And while we’ve compiled a whopping 45 absolute beauties, there are so many incredible eats across our region. If you think you deserve a spot on this list, reach out to us at [email protected] and we’ll check you out.
Fine Bar Dining
Always a crowd pleaser (and for good reason) Hotel Gosford is the go to for everything from date night to the girl’s night out to catching the footy after work. This pub is a firm Coastie fave.
The menu at Earl’s Kitchen is all class. They serve up classic dishes but with a twist. While featuring a selection of pub meals we all know and love you can also enjoy something a little more adventurous and oh so delicious. We can’t go past the Chargrilled Murray River Cod on Paperbark. Not to mention the wine and cocktail list are very impressive. Trust us you won’t be disappointed.
179 Mann St, Gosford
Meribella
Relaxed Fine Dining
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With arguably the best view on the Coast, just a panoramic view of Terrigal Beach through floor-to-ceiling windows, is the Coast’s newest foodie offering. We introduce to you Meribella.
This is the relaxed fine dining (yes, that is a thing, these guys have nailed it) that the Central Coast needs and wants. With delectable food by Chef Josh Mason and his team, trust us when we say that the Meribella experience is seriously NEXT level, Coasties!
Pine Tree Lane, Terrigal
Relaxed Vibes
Sat just above The Budgewoi Hotel is a truly unique dining experience for the Central Coast, we intro the contemporary Italian trattoria Lago Cucina. The interiors are stylish yet relaxed, the food is to die. This is destination worth travelling for.
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169 Budgewoi Rd, Budgewoi
The Springs, Peats Ridge
Savour the local flavour over long lunch at The Springs: this spot brings a quality culinary experience to Peats Ridge. The food os spot on and the setting so gorgeous you’ll not want to leave. With a new owner at the helm alongside new hands-on management, we’re tipping 2024 to be the year you find your new favourite local spot to dine for lunch.
To find out more, visit their online home here.
Wildwood Dining
Located inside the new Gosford Leagues Club, Wildwood is the perfect spot to enjoy a welcoming family environment whilst going on a delectable culinary journey of local tastes and fresh foods. With both small and large plate options, grills, classics, pastas and pizzas, you really can’t go wrong here. A special bonus, they also have a children’s menu and a nearby play area to keep the little ones entertained! Check out their website to see the full menu.
Fine Dining
Inland from the shoreline at Mt White, the Saddles restaurant is cantering along at a different pace from the coastal eateries found dotted along the waterfront. This rustic outfit really is something to marvel at, with a stately barn perched upon a small dam that will draw your attention from the minute you arrive. Inside the smell of rich leather chairs and a crackling fireplace will get you in the mood for moorish baked goods, grilled octopus, beef pies and charcuterie plates brimming with delicious delicacies served across breakfast and lunch sittings.
With new owners at the helm, Saddles is now offering a family-friendly Sundowners at Saddles BBQ every Friday that is worth checking out. And, that’s just the beginning there is so much more in store coming to you from this very special spot.
20 Ashbrookes Road, Mt White
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Fine Dining
Nestled in the lush surrounds of the Bells of Killcare boutique hotel, you’ll find The Wild Flower restaurant which offers elegant, chic dining. Culinary Director, Sean Connolly has pulled sun-drenched inspiration from around the world with a menu that nods to the Mediterranean, Morocco and everywhere in between. With such attention to detail you can expect to devour dishes that bring together seasonal fresh produce, local seafood and a bit of fun. Make every weekend a special occasion with a visit to The Wild Flower, or really treat yourself and book in to stay the night at this gorgeous hotel.
107 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights
Fine Dining
To try something a little bit different compared to your meat and three veg at home, head to Suq restaurant for a fusion of Asian, North African, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Overlooking the shores of Terrigal Beach this hole in the wall venue may look small but inside the kitchen is whipping up dishes that are mighty. Suq dining is best experienced by sharing plates, so get stuck into delights like Fried French goat’s cheese with beetroot, fig and quince jam and toasted sourdough, Seared Japanese scallops, Rodrigues chorizo, carrot and ginger custard or the Carpaccio of Wagyu beef.
80 Ocean View Drive, Wamberal
Found in stunning Toowoon Bay, Cecilia’s modern and sleek restaurant will have you coming back for more. With a highly sophisticated menu and wine list, Cecilia’s provides a unique dining experience with a Japanese flair. Dishes change throughout the week, but one of the bestsellers is the yellowfin crudo, wasabi, salted plum and cucumber. We adore.
89 Toowoon Bay Rd, Toowoon Bay
Fine Dining Kid-Friendly
There’s something special about L’isle de France and it isn’t just down to it being one of very few French restaurants on the Coast. Everything from the lighting to the atmosphere, the menu and wine list, is just flawless. We highly recommend trying the Joues de Boeuf à la Bourguignonne with a glass of La Tour Travers 2018. Really, a stunning example of a restaurant all-rounder.
1 Ena St, Terrigal
Il Toscano Long Jetty
Casual Italian Dining
After the massive success of their Tuscan pasta bar, Il Toscano, in Terrigal Il Toscano in Long Jetty became the realisation of owner Matteo’s original dream: to open a dine-in restaurant. The experience is nothing short of bellissimo. With everything from the decor to the food screaming authentic. Without a doubt the go-to for the most fresh, artisan pasta this side of Tuscany.
Book your table now to avoid disappointment.
419 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty
Gosford Restaurants
Casual Eats
In 2019 John Singleton weaved his magic by opening the epic hospitality precinct, originally the Bon Pavilion, smack bang in the middle of Gosford. Mid 2022, the venue saw a refresh of epic proportions welcoming the Railway Hotel to Gosford. A place where old meets new, as their tagline states, the Railway Hotel aims to be the place where people gather. Thoughtfully designed to blend a part of Australia’s history with good old-fashioned service. With a steakhouse focusing on “paddock to plate” and bringing the highest quality of meat this is a restaurant not to be missed.
159 Mann Street, Gosford
Casual Eats
Stylish interiors, al fresco dining, slick service and a brilliant ever-changing menu, South End Social is brilliant at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Even their casual bar snacks have been elevated to another level. Truly delicious.
1/32 Mann St, Gosford
European delight
Little Miss Mezza, the baby sis of the exceptional Motel Mezza in Wyong joins the Meraki fam which also consists of some of the Coast’s favourites – the Pantry, Pinocchios Wine & Pizza, Blk Bird Dining. Opened in January 23 Little Miss Mezza brings a brilliant Middle Eastern dining experience to West Gosford. With regular dinner entertainment on offer and sublime decor you literally get transported on a journey when you dine here. We cannot recommend enough.
Shop 3 & 4/299 Brisbane Water Dr, West Gosford
Casual Bar Dining
Though this spectacular fav of ours is currently closed for it’s new, spunky revamp and relocation, this is definitely one to add to the list for the very near future (2024/25 summer!). Featuring a unique, Coastie-run South African kitchen perfected with the collaboration of true Saffas (South Africans) from Old Mates Kitchen, Lyon’s Den is well known not just for its delicious bites to eat, but it’s amazing cocktails and numerous fun events. And, lucky for us, it’s about to get even more spectacular with it’s new rooftop bar, outdoor cinema and Den arcade – so definitely be sure to stay in tune!
New Location Coming Soon
Casual dining
The award-winning Fedele’s entered the Central Coast restaurant scene with a bang in late 2021, cementing their spot amongst the Coast’s most loved restaurants almost instantaneously. They are mentioned an exceptional number of times in the top restaurant lists of the Central Coast. Serving up authentic Italian cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences.
Their passion for food and hospitality absolutely shines through not only in each dish but with their welcoming and warm hospitality.
Shop 3/36/40 Victoria St, East Gosford
Ettalong Restaurants to Visit
and the wider Peninsula
Kid-friendly and Dog-friendly
For casual outdoor dining that marries a touch of Hamptons chic with classic Aussie fare, The Boathouse Hotel in Patonga is the perfect spot for your next long lunch or summer dinner. Expect all of the bistro mainstays like hearty schnitzels, light pastas that pop with flavour and pizzas stacked with ingredients that sing in harmony. But the real hero here is the fresh seafood on offer including Sydney Rock Oysters, Salmon Ceviche, Tiger Prawns, grilled Barramundi, seafood platters and a Dory Burger. If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat in between swims at the beach head to their fish and chip shop that slings seafood baskets, crumbed prawns, potato scallops and burgers all day long.
6-8 Patonga Drive, Patonga
Relaxed Semi–Fine Dining
Say hello to the Coast’s newbie, Amalfi at Pearl Beach. At first glance, it kinda looks like a private cottage beach house nestled behind a row of stately trees, but upon closer inspection, you’ll find it’s an “absolute beach front lunch and dinner destination”. Their aim to brings a slice of paradise dining to the Central Coast.
We can’t wait to try it out – how about you?
1 Tourmaline Avenue, Pearl Beach
The Ettalong
Recently renovated into a smick new outing destination with a beer garden, kids play area and Sandbar bistro, this classic pub-styled fav in the heart of Ettalong Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty lunch or dinner or engage in one of their many fun, organized events. Whether karaoke, live music or trivia is your thing, there’s always something happening at this upbeat spot, so be sure to keep updated on their website.
Kid-friendly
You won’t get closer to the water than at this charming hotspot that sits on a jetty straddling the Brisbane Water estuary in Woy Woy. If you’re looking to impress out-of-towners or simply treat yourself to a seafood feast, you won’t find better catches than on the menu here at Woy Woy Fishermen’s Wharf. Get stuck into the Whole Sichuan Salt and Pepper Snapper or the Chilli Blue Swimmer Crab done Singapore Style. There’s also an extensive wine list that will keep you merry whether you’re heading for a long lunch or a special dinner.
The Boulevard, Woy Woy
Kid-friendly and Dog-friendly
At The BOX On The Water you’ll be able to grab a seat overlooking the foreshore of Ettalong Beach while enjoying some of the best modern Australian cuisine the Central Coast has to offer. Not bad, eh? While the tranquil waters of the bay lap at the steps of this open plan restaurant, you can dine cuisine like Shakshuka Barramundi and Berkshire Pork Belly or go the whole hog and treat yourself to their decadent degustation menu. Book a table for lunch, dinner or grab a cocktail and oysters and watch as the day slips away behind the bay.
The Esplanada, Ettalong Beach Waterfront Reserve
Casual Eats
If you’ve got a hankering for some Japanese delicacies, head to Miori Japanese Restaurant in Umina Beach for some of the best delicacies on the Central Coast. From the outside, this hole in the wall restaurant looks pretty unassuming but don’t let that fool you because this menu boasts an array of dishes that goes beyond expectations. Get stuck into plates of steaming hot pork gyoza, spicy tuna rolls, Wagyu beef and of course, a glass of cold (or warm) Sake to wash it all down.
314-320 Trafalgar Avenue, Umina Beach
Casual Eats
When you’re craving a cheesy packed with every topping under the sun, Tropicana Social Club is here to satisfy those taste buds. This casual dining joint has taken a little slice of Havana, Cuba and dialled up the bright interiors to megawatt. If you’re wanting a bit of fun for your next night out, choose Tropicana to bring the vibes. We suggest nabbing a spot in one of the green booths, starting with a basket of Buffalo Wings, chasing it with a Georgie Boy pizza and washing it all down with a Pet Nat.
61 Trafalgar Avenue, Woy Woy
Casual Dining
Chica Chica continues to deliver contemporary South American cuisine to Ettalong. Having become finalists in the coveted local business awards for both 2022 and 2023 these guys know what they are doing. Situated upstairs in Ettalong with plenty of outdoor dining and regular cocktail specials this is the perfect spot to settle into for the long leisurely lunch you know you need.
Level 2 19-21 Broken Bay Road, Ettalong Beach
Kid-friendly
Tucked away on the waterfront in Empire Bay is a gem of a find, with Sorento Pizza serving traditional Italian pizza. Thin base, rich tomato sauce and outstanding toppings. It is a culinary journey all the way to Italy without having to leave the Central Coast.
1 Sorrento Rd, Empire Bay
Terrigal Restaurants
Fun, funky vibes
It’s the upstairs Asian brand restaurant with the spectacular interiors that have us swooning. From the same owners as Thaiger Temple just down the drag which has been a household name in Terrigal for years now, you know that you are going to get a top class experience at Maew Maew. Not only is this about the restaurant experience owner Yoddy has experience as a DJ and so you can expect some funky after dinner vibes. With a cocktail list that will without a doubt help you find your dancing shoes.
This one is super fun Coasties.
90 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal
Asian Dining
The well-renowned Central Coast chef Pauly Mac has been at it again and boy has he delivered. Working on the menu with the team at Coco. This newest hotspot in Terrigal has been welcomed with rave reviews. The menu is an Asian-inspired fusion. In their own words, expect a “tapestry of flavours from Japan, Korea China, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Vietnam {that} intertwine to create an unforgettable dining experience with matching cocktails and perfectly paired wines.”
Yes please, you can count us and all our friends in!
88 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal
Fine Dining
The Cowrie has long been a favourite restaurant on the Central Coast thanks to the epic panoramic ocean views and even better food. This menu brings together all of the flavours you’d expect to taste at an impressive seaside restaurant. The Ceviche Bonito comes with compressed watermelon, charred cucumber, elderflower, coconut and ginger for a dish that really packs a punch. Try the Pork loin served with charred cabbage, thyme caramelised onion, dates, baby carrots, cumin oil and pork crumb. And if your mouth isn’t watering by now it certainly will be when you book a table and pour over the extensive list of delicious meals.
109 Scenic Highway, Terrigal
Fine Dining
At Yellowtail, they’re quite happy to keep us on our toes with a menu that changes bi-weekly to make way for the best seasonal produce emerging from local farms. And that really is the secret to why this place is so special – they’ve made fresh, sustainable dishes their north star. Lucky for us! When booking a table in their dining room you will be instantly transported to a world where the flavours sing and the wine works in perfect tandem. Head here to fully immerse yourself in a three or five course degustation, which, trust us, you won’t regret.
Shop 3/1 Campbell Crescent, Terrigal
Arc. Est
Fine Dining
The team at Arc. Est in Terrigal invite you to come along and ‘Shuck ‘n Chop’ – who are we to say no?! As their motto suggests, this brand new eatery puts a spotlight on oysters and steak, which is not a bad combo if you ask us. This is surf and turf done exceptionally well with fresh oysters Kilpatrick, Mornay, Mignonette, Ponzu and Chilli, lime, ginger all up for grabs. Over on the steak side you’ve got a whopping Chargrilled Beef Porterhouse served with shoestring fries and Cafe de Paris Butter. This is melt in your mouth kind of food which you won’t want to miss out on.
Shop 7 & 8/18 Church Street, Terrigal
READ MORE: A full list of New restaurants and cafes in Terrigal
Wyong Restaurants to Visit
Takeaway
It’s the fried chicken everyone on the Central Coast is talking about and the place that people travel from far and wide to visit! And, for a VERY good reason. Man oh man but this chicken is so incredibly tasty. Located within the grounds of the Chapman Building in Wyong Chick’n Korean Fried is a small hole in the wall takeaway spot. They have a few tables to sit at (outside only), but if weather permits setting up a little picnic blanket on the grassed area of the Chapman Building is also a winning idea. Be warned though these guys regularly sell out so be sure to keep an eye on their socials for updates.
Shop 10/14-16 Alison Rd, Wyong
Kid-Friendly
When traditional Italian fare meets the Central Coast, you get the beauty that is Osteria A’Mano. Experience classic Italian dishes bursting with flavour made from local, sustainable produce right in the heart of Wyong. With a menu stacked full of family recipes hailing from Italy, you’ll struggle to pick just one item to enjoy. Ravioli with pumpkin and ricotta, Tagliatelle with Ossobuco sauce, Gnocchi Pomodoro – mamma mia you may as well just get them all!
66 Pacific Highway, Wyong
Funky & Fun
At the Motel Mezza Social Bar they really do want guests to get social which is why they have designed a delicious menu full of Middle Eastern mezze plates intended to be shared. It’s a real pick and mix vibe here with plenty of options to choose from including Za’atar Cauliflower, Sumac Fries, Shish Taouk, Stuffed Eggplant and Lamb Kebeh. Go hungry and take plenty of your friends so you can have a taste of everything. And while the food definitely delivers, you certainly won’t be disappointed by their beverage options with a fully stocked bar boasting unique wines, spirits from around the world and of course, delicious cocktails.
98 Pacific Highway, Wyong
Toukley Restaurants to try
Found in Toukley, Mexicoast serves traditional Mexican street food. Think plenty of tacos, fajitas and guac-smothered dishes that are taken to the next level. Lots of flavour. And set within a fun and funky restaurant that is a top choice for weekend evening fun.
9/10 243 Main Rd, Toukley
Cosy fine dining
The hospo queen of the Central Coast, the formidable Tara Senam recently opened her sixth restaurant in her hometown of Toukley. Introducing the incredible Blk Bird. The interiors are dark, moody and cosy, the beverages are superb and the modern European food is just spot on. What’s got us even more excited though is their locals nights, happening every Tuesday and Wednesday you can get two courses for just $40.
From trivia nights held on the third Thursday of the month to creating the perfect venue for private events and hire, the team at Blk Bird have thought of everything. For more deets just pop over to their Insta.
5/243 Main Rd, Toukley
Pelicans
Semi Fine Dining
The semi-fine-dining restaurant located within the Beachcomber in Toukley, visiting here has you experiencing their mouthwatering menu, without the scary price tag. Chef Daniel Wearne has created a menu for Pelicans that is made for sharing and embraces fresh flavours, produce and artful plating. Set on the water this is a place that embodies the Coastal vibe and you can feel the strong connection to your surroundings.
200 Main Rd, Toukley
Central Coast Restaurants in Erina
Steakhouse
If you are after perfectly cooked (over flame) steaks and you’re a bit of a meat aficionado then Marble is for you. The restaurant’s name is a nod to the incredible quality of beef on offer, where you’ll find cuts like a 300g Striploin MB4+; 500g Riverina Angus rib eye MB2+; the 1kg Fiorentina Jack’s Creek MB3+; or the mouth-watering cube roll Wagyu Shiro Kin with what we’re crowing the Coast’s most drool-worthy marble score of MB9+.
Apart from the steaks we also fell for the Wagyu meatballs served in a sensational dish of mushroom and chilli and the gnocchi with burned butter and sage as chef Falomone explains its “just like we do it in Italy”, with roasted pumpkin, crispy prosciutto, almonds and pecorino foam.
2/8 Karalta Road, Erina
Casual Dining
Ok, let’s talk dinner at Bamvino in Erina Heights, where they believe wine enjoyed with good food and good company is one of life’s necessities! We couldn’t agree more. The well-thought-out wine list to accompanies their pizza and antipasti menu. If you’re around on a Friday lunch, we highly recommend their ploughman’s platter special that includes two glasses of wine or beer.
1/488 The Entrance Rd, Erina Heights
Casual Dining
Hidden within Fountain Plaza is Remi & Co where local produce is combined with the best imported products to make your pasta, pizza, cheese and wine experience truly Italian. Head over to their Facebook page to get a glimpse at what they offer!
2 Ilya Ave, Erina
Casual Dining
Also located at Fountain Plaza is the spectacular Yume Japanese! Yume, meaning ‘dream’, bringing the taste and flavours of authentic Japanese cuisine, including Teppanyaki. Bookings are highly encouraged.
Shop 9, Fountain Plaza, Erina
Fine Dining
If you consider breakfast the most important meal of the day, then Kew Dining is going to become your new favourite place to recharge and fuel the belly. The quaint farm-to-table outfit makes a celebration of the rich flavours that make up a breakfast dish and they aren’t afraid to go a little outside the box. Choose from Fluffy Buckwheat Pancakes, Baked Tomato & Chickpea Ragout or a Blueberry Bagel to get you raring for the day ahead. Of course they also offer a significant lunch menu and even a High Tea option for those with a sweet tooth that needs satisfying.
414 Central Coast Highway, Erina Heights
Casual Dining
Set in the gorgeous gardens of Distillery Botanica in Erina Heights is Bar Botanica, having recently been taken over by new management you can now enjoy jazz in the garden at this European-style cocktail bar. Not only that but they serve up the most delicious platters alongside their light menu (think pastries, pies, sandwiches). And did we mention dog friendly? Yes, that too!
25 Portsmouth Rd, Erina
KEEP READING: Exploring Erina’s Foodie Scene
More Central Coast Restaurants to Tick Off
Kid-Friendly
Avoca Beach House, a second-level restaurant just above the beach has panoramic views of the full stretch of Avoca Beach down to North Avoca. There’s balcony seating and it’s really the best spot to enjoy a seafood platter and a bottle of beautiful wine. This is a child-friendly Avoca restaurant with kids menu available. Best to pre-book though as it can get very busy and the outdoor seating is prime real estate.
85 Avoca Dr, Avoca Beach NSW 2251
Casual Eats
Step inside this weatherboard beach shack and instantly feel the relaxed Mid Century Hawaiian vibes wash over you. This venue has left no stone unturned when it comes to bringing the tropical ambience to Kincumber. Depending which corner you turn, there’s a little slice of island life in all the nooks of Shady Palms. Dine on zesty pizzas, fresh poke bowls, order oysters by the dozen and get bougie with a bottle of champagne from their impressive drinks menu. Come for a cocktail and nibble or stay the night noshing on great food in a vibrant atmosphere.
366 Avoca Drive, Kincumber
Casual Dining
Located at the perfect spot for waterfront dining down in Davo. The Caspian offers authentic Mediterranean Arabic cuisine with their nightly service often booking out. It is always hard to pick something when literally everything on the menu is sensational. But, we’d have to say that the Jawaneh wings, the labneh dip and the BBQ mixed plate are fab. Oh, and not to mention the cheese knafeh too! Actually, it’s all bloody delish. Run don’t walk we say!
1 Restella Ave, Davistown
READ MORE: A full list of restaurants and cafes to visit in Avoca Beach
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