7 places to dine alfresco in Neutral Bay
Nothing says Sydney like dining alfresco. If you’ve been craving an outdoor dining experience on the lower north shore or close to the northern beaches, you don’t have to stray far from Neutral Bay. Take a look at some favourite local venues, from small outlets to perennial favourites and recent arrivals.
Thelma & Louise
This waterfront cafe offers breakfast and lunch seven days a week, and caters to just about every appetite. Choose from healthy options such as raw salad greens, quinoa and a poached egg, luxury dishes of salmon and caviar on toast, or something in between.
Reviewers describe Thelma and Louise as magical, with some wonderful Mediterranean flavours, sweet treats and coffee in a bowl for anyone who needs a serious dose of caffeine. Try to get a table on the balcony with its views of Sydney Harbour.
Thelma and Louise, 1 Hayes Street, Neutral Bay
The Oaks
A local stalwart, The Oaks has a spacious outdoor area that’s ideal for a classic Sunday session. The food is far from your usual pub grub though – there are Asian-inspired dishes such as salt and pepper squid and miso-glazed chicken wings, along with Sydney rock oysters, local seafood, and classic sausages and mash.
Central to the beer garden is a beautiful oak tree that provides some lovely shade in summer and cements The Oaks’ position as a Sydney favourite.
The Oaks, 118 Military Road, Neutral Bay
Wingmill
Wingmill serves American diner favourites including chicken wings, fried chicken sandwiches, burgers and fries, with a choice of seasonings and side dishes, and beer on tap. For dessert, there are banana splits and huge floaters of ice cream and root beer, and vegans can also dine here, with plant-based burgers on offer. The restaurant has a great industrial-style interior of exposed brick and subway tiles, with lots of space outside for alfresco dining.
Wingmill, 9 Young Street, Neutral Bay.
El Guapo
This family-run cantina has a rustic, timber interior and alfresco dining area and serves fantastic, hearty Mexican food, craft beer and authentic Mexican cocktails. Choose from burritos, a range of tacos, empanadas, fresh guacamole and more, and be sure to leave some room for the cinnamon-dusted churros with chocolate sauce.
El Guapo, Shop 2/24 Young St, Neutral Bay.
Enoteca 28
Enoteca 28 is open from Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, plus lunch on Fridays and Saturdays. The wine list is carefully chosen and the Italian food is both inventive and delicious. True to Italian tradition, it makes the most of local and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy Sydney rock oysters and local calamari, cured meats and mains such snapper or local beef and lamb. Truly a place to celebrate good food and the simple pleasure of alfresco dining under shady umbrellas – and well-behaved dogs are welcome to join you.
Enoteca 28, 11 Grosvenor Lane, Neutral Bay.
So-Cal Sydney
Why eat streetside when you can enjoy rooftop dining? So-Cal offers tacos, share plates and margaritas served in an airy rooftop bar with a Californian-beach vibe. This funky spot is excellent for a few sundowners or dinner with friends.
Live music, comedy nights and share-style street food add to the ambience of this best-kept-secret location. Book ahead so you’re not disappointed.
So-Cal, 1 Young Street, Neutral Bay.
finefish
finefish offers more than your classic fish and chips. The menu at this casual seafood restaurant boasts a large daily selection of seasonal, sustainable seafood with an emphasis on freshness and quality. The restaurant’s daily deliveries come direct from the markets, and include everything from salmon burgers to fish tacos and classic fish and chips. You can also shop here for seafood and ready meals to take home.
finefish, 75 Grosvenor Lane, Neutral Bay.
What have we missed? Let us know which alfresco dining spots are your favourites in and around Neutral Bay.
