Best Seafood Restaurants in Port Stephens
Port Stephens is a dream destination for seafood lovers – especially oyster fans – thanks to its pristine waterways and laid-back coastal dining scene. You’ll find award winning restaurants serving just-shucked local oysters alongside perfectly grilled fish, prawns and scallops, often with views overlooking the water. Whether you’re after a special dinner or an easy lunch by the beach, Port Stephens seafood restaurants deliver ocean-to-plate freshness that makes every meal feel like a holiday.
The Poyers
Sitting right on the water at Lemon Tree Passage, The Poyers serves some of the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere in the region. Chef and owner, Ludovic Poyer serves up just-harvested oysters, succulent prawns and beautifully prepared fish, all treated with a light touch that lets the natural flavours speak for themselves. What better recommendation, than that of the Sydney Fish Market which awarded The Poyers Best Seafood Restaurant 2024 in NSW.
The Deck Cafe, Restaurant and Bar
The Deck Cafe, Restaurant and Bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner overlooking the Soldiers Point Marina. Embark on a culinary journey as you savour succulent seafood with a Mediterranean twist paired with local or international wine or beer. I personally highly recommend the Deck. I just wish I had a bigger stomach so I could get to the dessert! Bookings are essential.
Little Beach Boathouse
Little Beach Boathouse is another one of our favourites for a special occasion. The Boathouse sits over the water at Little Beach, where you can dine on the deck as the sun sinks over the water. The seafood is amazing and just melts in your mouth. Check out the fish of the day – if it is Mahi Mahi, it is absolutely incredible.
Restaurant 2317
Restaurant 2317 is located directly above the Deck Cafe, Restaurant and Bar at Soldiers Point. The menu is short and uncomplicated making selecting your feast simple. With oysters sourced from Holberts Oyster farm, literally just up the road, from the oyster leases just the other side of the marina, your seafood doesn’t come any fresher than this. Restaurant 2317 is your go to restaurant for spectacular sunsets.
Saltwater Restaurant, Fingal Bay
Saltwater Restaurant is located at the Fingal Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Enjoy beautiful seafood with family and friends overlooking fabulous Fingal Beach. This location is primarily a wedding venue so check opening times to the public beforehand.
Sandpipers Restaurant and Bar
Sandpipers Restaurant and Bar is conveniently located on the main street of Nelson Bay. Wander down for modern Australian seafood in a relaxed atmosphere. No view at this restaurant but is often busy.
Rick Stein at Bannisters
Rick Stein at Bannisters is located in Soldiers Point overlooking Port Stephens with views all the way to Tomaree Headland. The airy restaurant with vaulted ceilings and spectacular bar makes this venue something special. The menu changes daily depending on the local catch. Kingfish, Flathead, John Dory, Sand Whiting, Oysters, Lobster and Tuna, every piece of fresh produce serves as inspiration for new recipes and dishes.
Port Stephens Game Fishing Club
The Port Stephens Game Fishing Club may not be fancy, but these guys really know their fish and chips! The Game’O Bistro, as the locals like to call it, overlooks stunning Shoal Bay. Feast on oysters, fish and chips, the seafood basket or if you are game, the famous crumbed calamari stack. Even growing teenage boys find hard to conquer the calamari!
Mumms on the Myall
OK, this one is not strictly in Port Stephens, but what an adventure.
Take the Tea Gardens Ferry from Nelson Bay (Dock C, D’Albora Marina – near the blue Bay Booking Office). On your journey across Port Stephens and up the Myall River, look out for dolphins and abundant birdlife. Upon disembarking at Tea Gardens, wander along the foreshore towards the Singing Bridge. Along the way, learn about the maritime history of the river and gaze at the sculptures.
Mumms on the Myall is right next door to the fish co-op. Take a table overlooking the Myall River, watching the boats and pelicans float past your as you share a sensational seafood platter paired with a glass or two (after all, you’re not driving) of Hunter Valley wine.
Bub’s Famous Fish and Chips
Bub’s Famous Fish and Chips is located next to the fish Co-operative at D’Albora Marina. Effectively a fish and chip take away with alfresco dining, this location can get very busy and crowded. It’s definitely worth the wait. If there are no tables available, grab your takeaway and wander down to the park to enjoy a picnic overlooking the marina.
Port Stephens has a way of turning a simple meal into a moment – salty air, sun-drenched views and seafood that tastes like it’s come straight from the sea to your plate. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or already have a trip planned in your calendar, these spots are worth building your days around.
If this list made you hungry or helped you plan your next coastal getaway, don’t keep it to yourself. Share it with your travel loving friends, send it to a group chat, or save it for later – because the best trips (and the best meals) are always better when shared.
And if you do visit one of these gems, tag Roam with No Regrets – we’d love to see where your next bite takes you.
