The Best Restaurants in Lane Cove

Lane Cove is known for being a family-friendly suburb, but that's not all it has going for it. Unbeknownst to many, Lane Cove is packed with some of the best restaurants North of the bridge. 

At the forefront of the lower north shore’s drinking and dining scene, you'll find incredible Mexican, gastropubs, pizza and seafood restaurants, amongst others. So next time you're hunting for a bite to eat, head to this underrated foodie hub. Read on for our edit of the best restaurants in Lane Cove. 

Sayulita 

Boasting some of the most serene interiors we've encountered to date, Sayulita is a haven of fresh food, incredible drinks and warm service. The terracotta tones create a refreshing backdrop for a memorable dining experience, curated by Chef Luis Zaleta who was born and raised in Mexico City. All dishes are designed to share with the Chargrilled Macha Halloumi just one of the many standouts. As for the drinks, order the coconut marg or live to regret it. Sayulita is easily one of the best restaurants in Lane Cove so don't miss it. 

The Canopy, 2 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove 

Longueville Hotel

Affectionately known as The Longy, Longueville Hotel is the locals’ go-to watering hole. There are multiple bars as well as a spacious alfresco beer garden, ideal for Sunday afternoon drinks. The refurbished bistro does modern Australian well, and their Villa Beef Burger is hard to pass up - with a juicy wagyu beef patty, double American cheddar, caramelised onion and maple bacon. Their elevated pub fare also includes modern favourites like Tuna Carpaccio, Burrata, poke bowls and duck leg confit.  

80 Longueville Road, Lane Cove 

Lillah

Lane Cove's Lillah brings a breath of fresh air to the local dining scene with their fresh and vibrant cuisine. Serving up delicious Middle Eastern fare, make sure to come with an appetite to savour the various chargrilled meats, roasted vegetables and large share plates. Busy most nights of the week, but definitely worth the wait. Lillah also has a great selection of artisan cocktails available, many of which use local Sydney spirits. If you're not sure what to order, opt for the Lillah Experience which will set you back $69 per person but allows you to sample an array of Lillah's most popular dishes. 

128 Longueville Road, Lane Cove

Encasa

Spanish cuisine is some of the finest and Encasa do it well. Swing by for an evening of cocktails and charcuterie before finishing off with a few plates of tapas, paella and dessert. The beef cheeks braised in red wine, garlic prawns, Iberico ham and Basque cheesecake should not be missed!  

132 Longueville Road, Lane Cove

The Alcott

A lush oasis in the heart of Lane Cove, The Alcott looks after all your dining needs. On the food front, their Mediterranean-leaning share plates deliver on flavour, whilst their dedicated spritz bar will quench your thirst in the most delicious way possible. Make sure to snag a seat on the cosy terrace – complete with fairy-lights and blankets. If you've got more than six people in your group, opt for the banquet menu that offers incredible value at $59 a head (must be pre-booked). The Alcott is easily one of the best restaurants in Lane Cove if you're heading out to celebrate! 

1 Birdwood Avenue, Lane Cove 

Little Red Robin

You may be forgiven for thinking you've entered a laneway restaurant in Melbourne after finding Little Red Robin tucked down Birdwood Lane. This modern Italian restaurant offers an exquisite share menu, including dishes like Squid Ink Spaghetti and Kangaroo Tartare. Pop in for lunch, aperitivo or dinner, just don't leave without trying their baked ricotta with mandarin oil. 

Entry Via, 4/85 Longueville Road, Birdwood Ln, Lane Cove 

Shorties

Shorties is Lane Cove’s only real small bar and serves up homegrown wine, innovative cocktails and craft beers. The food menu is equally worth a look in too and perfect for those who want to share. It will see you digging into the likes of Kingfish sashimi with finger lime and wasabi creme fraiche to lamb and caramelised onion croquettes. Drool! The space itself is intimate and rustic (or more rust-chic?) and is perfect for a girls’ night out or an after-work drink.

96 Longueville Road, Lane Cove

If you loved this edit of the best restaurants in Lane Cove and are ready to broaden your foodie horizons even further, be sure to check out our the best bars in Crows Nest and our favourite restaurants in Chatswood.