Coffs Harbour is a coastal getaway worth adventuring to: even if it’s just for the local cuisine.
The sandy beach town may be known for humpback whales, mountainous terrain, and abundant wildlife but it’s also filled to the brim with charming cafes and fine dining restaurants. From a great cup of coffee to a lavish dinner out on the town, here are the 8 best places in Coffs Harbour for a superb bite to eat.
Old John’s
Quirky with heaps of retro decor, this little cafe on the Jetty Strip is every hipster’s dream. With wooden recycled doors tacked on the wall and eclectic portraits of Jesus in random corners of the shop, it’s easy to see why there is an attraction simply for the aesthetic. However, the cherry on top is that Old John’s also packs a punch when it comes to lunch. Try their famous feta scrambled eggs or wait around until the sun goes down and watch the cafe turn into a trendy wine bar.
99 on Park
99 on Park offers an elegant and relaxed fine dining experience, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood and French cuisine. The beautifully crafted dishes are a feast for the eye! Try the cheese souffle with local mushrooms, the succulent beef eye fillet and the vanilla and Baileys creme brulee.
Stef Beachstone
For those who love a good pizza night, check out Stef Beachstone in Sapphire Beach. The wood-fired pizza is made with a 72-hour fermented dough, bursting with traditional Italian flavours. There’s also delicious hand-made pasta, and the place has a great, relaxed vibe. Bring your pets, bring your kids and make a night of it.
Urban Espresso Lounge
Searching for an eatery with a diverse menu to make the whole group happy? Look no further. Known for fantastic classic dishes with a modern twist, Urban Espresso Lounge has a little something for everyone. Venture out of your comfort zone with their grilled marinated squid, opt for a hefty steak sandwich or simply sip on one of their to-die-for sunrise smoothies. With all-day breakfast, a wide range of lunch options, and one of the biggest, most innovative vegan menus around, you’re sure to find a meal that satisfies your needs.
Grazie, Papi
Grazie, Papi is another awesome Italian restaurant dishing out scrumptious, authentic staples. Enjoy the hand-stretched bases oozing with napoli sauce, or a bevy of local seafood like freshly shucked oysters, mussels and market fish. Add a zingy cocktail to the mix and you have the recipe for a perfect Friday night.
Latitude 30
Latitude 30 is the one-stop destination for all things seafood in Coffs Harbour. Housed right on the breathtaking coastline, this esteemed eatery has gorgeous views of the South Pacific to take in as you dine on the freshest locally sourced seafood. Choose from any kind of fish dish you can imagine, from scotch fillet steak to fish and chips, or have the whole ocean on one plate with the popular seafood platter.
Mana Chita
Sensational stews, stir fries and curries – Mana Chita is a small slice of heaven from the other side of the world. Serving up authentic cuisine from the Horn of Africa region, get ready to let your tastebuds travel. Try fetira, a filled flat bread, grilled and served with lemon, hot chilli sauce and yoghurt, or brave some of their exceptional curries, ranging from mild to extremely spicy. Enjoy an Ethiopian beer or rich local wine to complement the food.
Shearwater Restaurant
Picturesque and positively lovely, Shearwater restaurant is most loved for its serene views of Coffs Creek and the relaxed atmosphere. With a sensational menu consisting of modern Aussie cuisine like the tempting barramundi, Shearwater loves to keep ingredients locally sourced and undeniably fresh. After you’re finished with your meal, don’t forget to go down to the lower decks and feed the fish – a tourist attraction in its own right.
Travel to Coffs Harbour
Rex flies to Coffs. Book your flights here.
If you enjoyed this article, check out the best places to experience natural beauty in Coffs Harbour here.
