The New South Wales South Coast is famous for its beautiful beaches and waterways, and the many watersports to be enjoyed. It’s also home to some of the best foodie experiences on the East Coast.
If you’re a food and wine lover, or have a group of friends looking for a food-fuelled adventure, check out this gourmand’s guide to the coastal towns of Moruya and Narooma.
Gourmet wonders of magical Moruya
Situated on the Moruya River in the Eurobodalla region, Moruya is a hidden gem on the Oyster Coast of NSW, offering beautiful beaches, peaceful lookouts, and plenty of adventure activities.
At The River Moruya restaurant, all produce is sourced locally. Head chef Peter Compton is dedicated to crafting an organic menu that celebrates the best the Eurobodalla coast has to offer. He combines classic French techniques with Australian flavours, resulting in modern offerings such as cauliflower and blue cheese velouté, lamb backstrap with an amazing potato dauphinoise, and saffron gnocchi. If you’re not sure where to start, try the five-course tasting menu for a selection of the dishes, paired with fine wines.
For casual dining with historic flair, head to Quantum Brewery. This single batch craft brewery is located inside the Old Moruya Cheese Factory, which was built in 1930.
Soak up the sun in the relaxing beer garden, or surround yourself with vintage memorabilia in the cafe and bar. There’s a long list of Quantum Brewery beers, as well as sweet and dry ciders, gins and wines.
Make sure to try one of the pizzas, or a cheese platter to complement your drinks. On Saturday afternoon, the brewery comes to life with live music from top local performers.
Established in 1882, The Adelaide Hotel is the main pub in town that locals swear by. Named after the oldest daughter of its first publican, the Addie is a family-run hotel that welcomes locals and tourists alike.
Catch up with friends at either of the two bars, enjoy a classic pub feed at the bistro, and have a drink in the beer garden that’s always oozing great vibes. Live music is a regular feature for weekend entertainment, and you can stay the night if you want to see more of the town. It has simple yet cosy rooms at great prices, including family rooms with bunks.
Every Saturday, more than 130 stallholders take over the town for the Moruya Country Market. Wander along the riverside as you explore fresh local produce, homemade treats and slow roasted coffee, as well as fashion, jewellery and art. Also check out the SAGE Farmers Markets held every Tuesday at 3pm.
The beans from Alfresco Coffee Roasters have been sourced from the best growing regions in the world, but the company’s spirit is firmly Australian. The owners have travelled from Colombia to Nicaragua, learning tricks of the trade and partnering with local growers to support sustainable practices and increase fair-price trade.
As well as selling the beans wholesale, the team runs a popular cafe in Moruya where you can enjoy smooth, silky coffee every morning. Stop by to enjoy a drink with friends, or join a barista training course to learn about the art of making coffee.
Dining with a view in sunny Narooma
Drive 40 minutes up the coast and you’ll come across the classic seaside town of Narooma, where it’s all about diving with seals, surfing big waves, and soaking in incredible ocean views.
Owned by hospitality super-group Merivale, the Quarterdeck is a vibrant tiki bar and restaurant right on the waterfront. Enjoy a banana Daiquiri, Piña Colada or Mai Tai while taking in a sunset. Order a platter of fresh oysters, and relax on the seating area right on the jetty. Quarterdeck has been a Narooma institution for almost 20 years, and it continues its longstanding tradition as a place of connection and celebration.
For the best fish and chips in town, head to The Inlet. Here, they only use the best and freshest catch for the delicious burgers, fisherman’s baskets, calamari, and of course fish and chips. While The Inlet is takeaway only, you’re more than welcome to take a seat out the front and watch a colourful sunset, or bring your furry friends along for a family outing.
If you’ve got a bit of a sweet tooth, then the Narooma Ice Creamery Cafe is the place for you. All ice cream is made in-house, with a variety of decadent flavours on rotation such as jam doughnut, pavlova, and banana and peanut butter. They even have seasonal treats, so make sure to stop by during the holidays for a scoop of hot-cross bun or lamington flavour. If ice cream isn’t your thing, they also serve breakfast and lunch dishes, jaffles, and more.
The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter is a local institution owned by the Coxon family, who have been harvesting oysters for more than 40 years. The venue is situated on the edge of the Wagonga Inlet, with stunning river views and an outdoor lounge area kept warm with heaters in the cooler months. All oysters are supplied by the Coxon family, and paired with unbeatable seasonings including finger lime or local mandarin aji hot sauce. Here you can also dig into a plate of fish and chips, grilled prawns, or sample from the extensive drinks menu of freshly squeezed juices and cocktails. You can buy directly from the oyster farm; expect friendly service and fresh oysters by the dozen.
Every year, Narooma is also home to the Narooma Oyster Festival – a celebration of the best growers, chefs and shuckers from the Wagonga Inlet. Sample the best local produce at Oyster Farmers Alley, learn to cook with some of the country’s best chefs, or enjoy a unique culinary experience and dine under the stars.
Other highlights include the hotly contested Oyster Shucking Championships, live music, and a celebration of First Nations food.
No matter what your tastebuds are seeking, there’s truly something for everyone in Moruya and Narooma.
To read more about the tranquil town of Moruya, click here.