The Best Restaurants in Gerringong, Australia

One of the brightest gems in Gerringong, The Blue Goose is the long-lived dream of a retired Sydney chef who moved down to the south coast for a more relaxed lifestyle. The Blue Goose as an obvious result of this mindset – a large, light-filled seating area, luxuriously cushioned sofas and paintings of the gentle sea swell on the wall. The food is seasonal, ever-changing and to-die-for fresh – you can taste the flavours of India in the popular Tandoori Burger, and their all-day breakfast boasts treats such as double chocolate-chip pancakes and home-made baked beans.

This special-occasion-splurge restaurant is located on Crooked River Wines Estate. Go for lunch or an early dinner to appreciate the beautiful view of the family-owned vineyard stretching into the mountains. The menu showcases locally sourced products, offering delights such as wild rabbit terrine with pistachio biscotti and a spiced rack of lamb. If you want the views but not the five-star meal, they also do delicious wood-oven baked pizzas for a lot less. The cellar door is always creating new innovative blends, so there will be the perfect glass of wine to match whichever meal you choose.

While vegetarian fare isn’t often for everyone, this surf-shop-cum-café definitely has something that will appeal to even the most dedicated of carnivores. The outdoor seating is perfect for people watching and to sip a freshly squeezed juice in the summertime, and the cosy interior has a log fire to enjoy with a cup of their organic coffee in the colder months. Try the mushroom sourdough for a burst of juicy, buttery flavour or their famed nachos – so packed with black beans, guacamole and cheese, you won’t miss the meat.

Despite its casual name, don’t underestimate this over-achieving café and its impressive menu. With its welcoming atmosphere and over-attentive staff, you’re already having a good time and you haven’t even ordered yet. The menu literally has something for everyone – rustic salads, classic burgers, and stuffed burritos (including a breakfast burrito with a jalapeño jam you’ll be begging the recipe for). With generous portions, you’ll leave with a full belly and a satisfied smile.

Another splurge option, Bella Char offers mouth-watering modern Australian cuisine paired with amazing wine, all locally sourced from the wineries dotting the coast. With seafood featuring heavily on the menu, Bella Char boasts their range is some of the freshest in the region. The stone outdoor terrace has an amazingly rustic feeling, and the seclusion of the restaurant itself provides for a serene experience. If you don’t want to shell out for a complete meal, the tasting plate and a glass of wine will give you a delightful sample of the best they have to offer.

Famous among locals, the renowned fish and chips at the unpretentious seaside fish-and-chip shop has travellers coming from miles away. While you have to wait a bit for your food, that’s because they’re cooking it fresh for you. The terrace has simple seating and ocean views, or take your newspaper-wrapped meal and head straight to the beach across the road. Even if you aren’t a fan of fish, their burgers and ‘special chips’ will be sure to entice you.