24 June 2022
After two years of disruptions, we are so thankful for the resilience of some of our staple restaurants and cafes and also excited about the additions of new and courageous ones. We have some fantastic options that provide a great excuse to grab a coat, a loved one and enjoy a warming meal lovingly made by someone else! Here are some of my favourite places to eat (and drink) and take the family, from Mona Vale to Clareville these cosy culinary hubs won’t disappoint this winter.
Sir Duncan (Newport)
An ambient neighbourhood wine bar featuring ‘minimal intervention wine’ with an ever-changing menu focusing on Italian and Spanish inspired share plates, plus, classy cocktails and live music. Sir Duncan is a quality night out for big or small tables wishing to relax, graze and soak up the best alcoholic beverages on the beaches.
Open: Wednesday – Thursday from 5pm to late, Friday – Saturday from 3pm to late.
352 Barrenjoey Road, Newport, 2106
Paddock & Vine (Mona Vale)
It was five years ago that this humble food and wine bar opened in Mona Vale and has since become a local foodie destination. The owners’ combined passion for Mediterranean food, quality Australian wine and a vibrant dining experience are evident when you visit this cosy and award-winning restaurant.
We love the hearty winter warmers on the menu such as the Pappardelle Beef Shin Ragu and also the Eye Fillet with Manchego Butter and Fries.
Open: Tuesday – Sunday from 5pm.
8/1-5 Bungan Street, Mona Vale 2103.
Cafe Monaka (Mona Vale)
This Japanese teahouse brings a taste of Japan to Mona Vale. Monaka’s traditional Japanese menu is paired with a relaxed Northern Beaches atmosphere – it’s fresh and flavoursome and perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Sip on specialty Japanese teas such as Sencha or Oolong, or, single-origin coffee and make sure to treat yourself to the Japanese-style breakfast “Asogohan” which includes miso soup, grilled salmon, steamed rice, egg omelette and pickles (my personal favourite).
Open: Monday – Saturday from 8am to 3pm.
2/24 Waratah Street, Mona Vale 2103
Golly Gosh Cafe (Mona Vale)
This quirky cafe brings fresh fun to Northern Beaches, with old-school diner vibes and new-school neon signs the sensational menu makes it impossible to decide! It’s a joyous place with a spread of sweet and savoury ‘goodies’ and ‘naughties’ to indulge in, everything on offer will make your eyes pop out of your stomach… a good place to spoil the kids (or the dog).
Be prepared to blow the diet and try something surprising such as Mars bar waffles, Biscoff & white choc pancakes, loaded doughnut fries or a BBQ double beef and bacon burger.
Golly Gosh is open daily and late Friday night for an exclusive dessert experience with their ‘after dark’ menu.
Open: Monday – Sunday from 6:30am to 2:30pm, Friday nights 6:30-10pm.
2-3/1761 Pittwater Road, Mona Vale 2103
Four Pines (Newport)
This public house (pub) in Newport captures a classic saloon vibe with a 4 Pines twist. It’s the home of the barrel-aged program with twelve taps of the freshest and unique beers, fine wines and eclectic beer-infused cocktails, you definitely want to drop in for a drink! We especially love the Sunday roast they offer with all the trimmings added, a great family afternoon out on a cold winter’s Sunday.
Open: Mon – Thur from 4pm to 10pm, Fri – Sat from 12pm to 11pm, Sun from 12pm to 9pm.
313 Barrenjoey Road, Newport, 2106
Ouzo Greek (Clareville)
This is a family run, family loved restaurant tucked away at the Clareville shops in Avalon Beach. For something hearty, warm and filling, feast on marinated lamb, souvlaki or moussaka and finish with some homemade baklava. On a winter’s night the rustic greek mediterranean menu and warm hosts will fill you with comfort.
Open: Wednesday – Sunday from 5:30pm to 10pm.
3/1-5 Hilltop Road, Avalon Beach 2107
Bistro Boulevard (Avalon Beach)
It’s an oldie but a goodie and is known by locals as ‘The French Restaurant’. We are so glad it has survived the last two years and continues to thrive! Le Boulevarde is one of the longest standing restaurants in the area, opening in 1973, and it is no wonder as it consistently serves simple French cuisine with boutique wines. The traditional french menu is made extra special being cooked with high-level technique following from the Parisian food movement of ‘bistronomy’, when you visit you’ll get fine food in a bistro atmosphere. It’s always a great meal with friends – we especially love the grilled beef fillet with Paris butter and fries.
Open: Tuesday – Saturday from 4:30pm to 11:30pm.
40 Avalon Parade, Avalon Beach 2107
Leonardo’s Deli (Avalon Beach)
This cute laneway deli and bar, owned and run by a local couple, is a relatively new addition to Avalon but already has a flourishing reputation. Reminiscent of European culture, at Leonardo’s you can savour the delicious platters with the finest of cold meats, cheeses and olives, daily soups and baguettes, wines, cocktails and live music! It’s just an all round good vibe and once you’re there it’s difficult to depart…
Open: Tuesday – Wednesday from 11am to 7pm, Thursday – Saturday 11am – late, Sunday 10am – 4pm.
1 Simmonds Lane, Avalon Beach 2107
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