7 Must-Try Restaurants Off The Beaten Track – Central Coast

7 Off the beaten track Central Coast restaurants worth travelling for

Ok, as much as we’d love to keep these hidden gems a secret, we also believe it’s our job to bring you the best of what our beautiful coast has to offer. As they say, the more the merrier, so we hope to catch you there.

1. Kefi, Koolewong

Whatever time you choose to spend at Kefi, you’re in for a treat. By day, we reckon Kefi has one of the best water views in the country for a picturesque lunch, but by dark, the vibrant Greek restaurant is also a popular and indulgent night out. Additionally, not only can you stroll on in but you can also moor your boat to grab a table at this divine venue.

The cuisine is a culinary adventure into the rich tastes of the Mediterranean, from zesty seafood dishes to lamb keftedes (though their impressive dessert menu must not be forgotten!) . The winelist is also not to be missed, as befits a long Greek winemaking tradition, filled with fragrant whites from the islands and deep reds from the Peloponnese.

Also did we mention the free glass of French sparkling wine with every main meal purchased for Coasties Card members?

19 Brisbane Water Drive, Koolewong

2. Amalfi, Pearl Beach

Whilst we’re on the topic of Mediterranean cuisine…this new and jaw-droppingly scenic modern Italian restaurant is a must for those who enjoy their Aperol Spritz on the water, surrounded by sunny umbrellas and citrus plants. If any more reasons are required, then it’s also worth noting Amalfi’s delicious antipasti and pasta that does justice x 2 to it’s homeland’s famous gastronomy scene, and the locals 20% off the bill deal on Thursdays.

1 Tourmaline Ave, Pearl Beach

3. The Springs, Peat’s Ridge 

Located in a beautiful part of the Central Coast hinterland, you won’t find a better place to get your favourite farm-to-plate meals than The Springs. Serving only the freshest produce and most artfully blended drinks with the best service, it’s no wonder why these guys were awarded the NSW Best Club Reception in 2023. Also, maybe consider playing a game of golf whilst you’re at it on their splendid grounds.

1080 Peats Ridge Rd

Central Coast Restaurants

RELATED: Most Romantic Restaurants on the Central Coast

4. The Cnr, Woy Woy 

Recently moved to a new and even groovier location in downtown Woy Woy, the Cnr should be the No.1 stop on every toastie-lover’s bucket list. If you’re going to specialise in one menu item (or perhaps two, if you count their damn-fine coffee) then you should do it like The Cnr does. O. M. G these guys know how to make the simple toastie anything but simple. These gourmet delights are worth travelling for.  

Our pick at the moment is the Cubano – Tampa style Cuban house smoked pulled pork, Hungarian salami, American mustard, Kewpie mayo, pickles and Swiss cheese (on a long Italian rustic roll)…* licks lips.

8/23-27 Chambers Pl, Woy Woy 

5. Sorrento Pizzaria, Empire Bay

An extremely cool family restaurant run by an extremely cool family, Sorrento Pizzaria is always going to be a winner in our eyes.

Having lived all over Europe owner Elia makes the freshest Napoletana dough this side of Sorrento, the traditional way. His authentic pizza dough recipe hails from near the Amalfi, the family recipe has been passed down from generation to generation with Elia now the guardian of it.

At Sorrento, they only make it in small batches and once it’s gone it’s gone. Steeped in pride, family and tradition you can taste passion and love with each bite.

These pizzas are the real deal. Make sure you book so you don’t miss out.

Dine in or take away open Thursday to Sunday from 5pm.

1 Sorrento Road, Empire Bay

6. Saddles, Mt White

Set on the site of a former nursery on the 28 acre Mt white estate sits Saddles, a stunning, luxe restaurant with an eye on fine eats, superior sips and high end interiors.

Proud to work with an array of local artisan producers the food is heavenly. Each dish is a culinary delight and no wonder when they have access to award-winning cheeses, the freshest locally caught seafood and handpicked fruits and vegetables.

Our hot tip is to make sure to book a table to avoid disappointment. Saddles is a crowd pleaser for those venturing up from ol’ Sydney town. And if you can get one, a balcony table overlooking the water is where it’s at.

20 Ashbrookes Rd, Mount White

7. Moobi Valley Burgers, Berkeley Vale 

Moobi Valley Burgers in Berkeley Vale is one of those places that if you blink you miss it. But this is the place where all your meat burger dreams come true: it’s a Wagyu dry aged butchery and takeaway burger shop all in one place.    

“There isn’t anywhere on the Coast where you can order a Wagyu truffle cheeseburger and take home a 30-day dry aged Tomahawk.” as owner Scott puts it. Take it from us the burgers are melt-in-your-mouth delicious. And, the meat, well, you will never taste meat like it! Specialising in beautifully dry aged Black Angus Wagyu & Black Angus Beef their dry aged cabinet is stocked with Tomahawks, T-bones, dry aged brisket and much more perfect for Fathers Day!

You will also soon find Moobi Valley 2.0 opening in Wamberal very soon! Let just say, we cannot wait!

3/60 Lakedge Dr, Berkeley Vale

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