Foodie Feasts: Best Restaurants on the Central Coast

The Central Coast is on every foodie’s radar, spurred by a new wave of culinary chefs and bakers who are making the sea change to the Central Coast’s seaside villages.

Beachside cafes are in abundance, fine-dining restaurants shine a spotlight on ocean-fresh seafood, eateries and bakeries are putting their spin on classic Australian faves, while more and more global eats are becoming a staple.

From garden settings to waterfront locations, here is our edit of the best restaurants on the Central Coast right now.  

Amalfi

For a taste of Italy without the jetlag (or the price tag), look no further than Amalfi. While its original location was devastatingly destroyed by fire in January, they’ve relocated to a divine new spot at Ettalong Beach for the foreseeable future. The best part? Every single staff member was also able to keep their jobs.

While the picturesque Pearl Beach building undergoes reconstruction, you can expect the same good food, good company and “la dolce vita” vibes at its temporary pop-up spot.

Temporary location

49 The Esplanade, Ettalong Beach

Saddles Mount White

While the glistening coastline of the Central Coast is hard to ignore, may we suggest heading inland to discover the abundant beauty at Saddles in Mount White?

With a menu that showcases Australia native ingredients, enjoy house-made charcuterie, savoury pastries and salads inspired by the on-site garden perfectly paired with top-quality wine, while sitting on the covered deck looking at the magical dam and flora and fauna. For a touch of homestead charm, take a seat in one of the venue’s famed saddle chairs at the restaurant’s brass scalloped bar.

20 Ashbrookes Road, Mount White

Lago Cucina

Lago Cucina in Budgewoi is one of the best restaurants on the Central Coast, thanks to its picturesque location overlooking the stunning Budgewoi Lake.

Perched above the Budgewoi Hotel, their menu boasts a wide range of delicious Italian dishes, including freshly made pasta, woodfired pizzas, and delectable seafood options — all paired with cocktails that capture the essence of the Italian coastline (Spritz, anyone?).

The restaurant’s cozy ambience and excellent service make it an ideal choice for a romantic date, a family outing, or a special celebration.

169 Budgewoi Road, Budgewoi

Meribella 

Make the most of your time on the Central Coast with Meribella‘s light-filled restaurant. Boasting views out across the ocean, the interiors serve up old-world charm whilst the menu is littered with seasonal delights inspired by Mediterranean flavours. If you’ve got the time, settle in for the six course tasting menu, curated by Head Chef Joshua Mason — you won’t find a better spot to enjoy a long lunch. 

Pine Tree Lane, Terrigal 

Little Miss Mezza

With an intricately designed Middle Eastern menu with a Modern Australian twist, Little Miss Mezza is one of the most innovative and unique dining spots on the Central Coast. In the heart of West Gosford, this spot boasts Insta-worthy interiors, an experimental cocktail menu,  and dishes like Kataifi Prawns, Hasselback Pumpkin and Applewood Smoked Chicken. Trust us, you’ll be tempted to visit again and again.

Brisbane Water Drive, West Gosford

Pocket Bar

Looking for one of the best restaurants on the Central Coast to enjoy bespoke cocktails, delectable share plates, and a fun atmosphere? Look no further than Pocket Bar, right near Terrigal Beach.

This celebrated restaurant and cocktail bar boasts retro décor, exposed brick interiors, and a playful approach to cocktail mixing that is sure to delight.

Pair your expertly crafted cocktail with an ever-changing range of tempting tapas dishes — you may just find it very hard to leave.

74 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

Suq

Suq offers a globally inspired, sharing-based menu that’s nothing short of a culinary adventure.

Make your way through the menu that infuses flavours from around the world into each dish, transforming every meal into a convivial conversation.

From France to Japan, the Mediterranean and North Africa, the menu invites diners on a delectable journey, with the small team producing everything in-house.

80 Ocean View Drive, Wamberal

Cecilia’s Restaurant & Wine Bar

A hidden gem tucked away in Toowoon Bay, Cecilia’s Restaurant & Wine Bar serves up an exciting and innovative menu, led by Head Chef Adam. With a modern, family-style feel, expect exotic flavours, new techniques and undiscovered ingredients that will have you finding new favourites every time you visit.

89 Toowoon Bay Road, Toowoon Bay

Railway Hotel Bar & Steakhouse

The Railway Hotel is a multi-purpose venue offering a range of delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. From juicy steaks (known as the best in town) to fresh seafood and vegetarian options, the menu is sure to satisfy any craving.

159 Mann Street, Gosford

The Cowrie

The Cowrie is the local legend you don’t want to miss. This iconic spot has undergone a tasty transformation under new ownership, and sitting atop the Terrigal Hills, you’re in for a sophisticated feast with a side of breathtaking views.

Perfect for date nights (or days), The Cowrie takes their food seriously, sourcing everything locally and in harmony with the seasons. It’s all about Aussie honey, zesty citrus, native herbs, and sustainable seafood.

Their commitment to local growers makes each dish a true tribute to the region. 

109 Scenic Highway, Terrigal 

The Boathouse Hotel

Following a five-million-dollar makeover courtesy of The Boathouse Group, The Boathouse Hotel on Patonga’s waterfront has quickly sailed into the spotlight as one of the best restaurants on the Central Coast.

This revamped gem offers a comprehensive menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. While you can’t go wrong with their Aussie brekkie faves like porridge, avo on toast, and sausage sangers, it’s during lunch that they truly excel with a classic take on the old-fashioned fish n’ chips.

Plus, it’s just a short ferry ride from Palm Beach if you’d rather not take the drive.

6-8 Patonga Drive, Patonga

Yellowtail

 Yellowtail is a cosy haven tucked away in Terrigal Village. With just 35 seats, it’s an intimate setting that packs a punch with its fine-dining menu.

With an ever-changing selection of modern Australian cuisine inspired by Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Asian flavours, Yellowtail delivers a tasteful journey for your palate.

Don’t miss their degustation menu — it’s a lineup of instant classics. And, of course, the paired wine offering is a must to enhance your experience. 

Shop 3, 1 Campbell Crescent, Terrigal

The Wild Flower Bar & Dining

The multi-award-winning Bells at Killcare looks like something straight from a postcard. Made up of a series of luxury accommodations, it’s the epitome of coastal charm.

However, Bells at Killcare is not just about cosy stays; it’s a culinary journey you won’t want to miss. Wild Flower Bar & Dining, their in-house restaurant, is a haven for foodies.

The menu, drawing inspiration from the sun-kissed flavours of Morocco to the Mediterranean, is a symphony of tastes. What truly sets it apart is its commitment to homegrown and seasonal produce, lovingly harvested from the kitchen garden and sourced from local farmers, fishers, growers, and winemakers. It’s the ultimate culinary ode to the Central Coast.

Bella at Killcare Boutique Hotel, Restaurant & Spa

107 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights

South End Social

South End Social is a breakfast and lunchtime venue with mouthwatering Mediterranean shared plates and stylish Xanthe Highfield-designed interiors (stylist of many Sydney and Central Coast venues).

Located at the south end of Mann Street in Gosford, South End Social stands out as a cafe and buzzing wine bar dedicated to brunch, long lunches, and handcrafted cocktails.

Whether you opt for a sun-drenched terrace table or a cosy booth, you are in for a treat. There are no bad seats in the house!

Shop 1, 32 Mann Street, Gosford

Bar Toto

Ettalong’s foodie scene has been making waves, and this southern Italian restaurant is at the forefront of the movement. 

Bar Toto is an Italian trattoria that’s all about antipasti, and their spirit-inspired drink menu boasts a killer cocktail list. Sit bar-side and engage in lively banter with the skilled mixologists, or opt for the cosy back lounge to savour those well-crafted concoctions and enjoy the beachy vibes of this seaside setting. 

83/189 Ocean View Road, Ettalong Beach

Arc. Est

Tucked away off the main strip in Terrigal, Arc. Est is a chic coastal bar and dining destination for lunch and dinner. Their love for ocean-fresh seafood shines bright in a menu that is overflowing with modern Australian dishes.

Over lunch, start with a plate of freshly shucked oysters before moving on to a main. At night, Arc. Est has a fine-dining flair with their two-, and three-course dinners. 

Shop 7 & 8, 18 Church Street, Terrigal

If you loved our round-up of the best restaurants on the Central Coast, be sure to check out the best beaches on the Central Coast. Looking for more foodie inspo closer to the city? Check out the best Italian and best Greek restaurants in Sydney.