EAT > The Boathouse, Wollongong (15/20)

Perched atop the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club, The Boathouse North Wollongong has quickly established itself as one of the South Coast’s premier dining destinations since opening in October 2024. (Not that there has been a huge amount of competition for upmarket dining in Wollongong up until now). With panoramic views across North Wollongong Beach and out to the Ocean, this venue delivers a dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of coastal New South Wales.

DESIGN >

The first Boathouse opened in 2008 in Palm Beach on Pittwater, NSW. Since then they have expanded the concept to waterfront venues on the Central Coast, Manly, Balmoral, Patonga, Shelly Beach, Rose Bay and now Wollongong. You might say the concept has been successful.

The North Wollongong Boathouse occupies a prime position directly above the LifeSaving Club, with its light-filled bistro space and large balcony taking full advantage of the stunning oceanfront location. The interior strikes a balance between casual beachside charm and sophisticated dining. The venue is divided between the bustling bistro and the terrace area both areas can get a little noisy when large groups come in.

FOOD >

Under the culinary direction of Mark LaBrooy (formerly of Three Blue Ducks) and Head Chef Lachie Houghton, The Boathouse delivers a menu that celebrates the seafood bounty of the South Coast. The kitchen’s commitment to local produce is evident in standout dishes like the blue crab linguini, which has quickly become a customer favourite. Other exceptional seafood offerings such as charred octopus, and kingfish crudo with buttermilk avocado mousse. For meat lovers, the rump steak with peppercorn sauce and truffle fries provides a satisfying alternative.

There is also a simpler bar menu catering to more casual dining with crowd-pleasers including a Wagyu smash burger, buttermilk chicken sandwiches, fish and chips, and wood-fired pizzas.

DRINKS >

The cocktail menu is quite innovative, and there is a reasonable wine list, with a good selection of tap beers. This is not somewhere you expect to sit down with the sommelier and discuss vintages but we were delighted with the Felton Road Pinot Noir that we drank with lunch.

VIBE >

As CEO Antony Jones puts it, “This is a space where you can walk straight in from the beach with sandy feet or sit down for an intimate dinner to celebrate a special moment”. Its a philosophy that is evident in the venue’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere, where locals and visitors alike feel equally

**Opening hours:** Lunch 11:30am-5pm, Dinner 5pm until late, Bar open from 11:30am until late[1]

CONCLUSION >

The Boathouse North Wollongong is a big step up for restaurants on the South Coast elevating the dining experience, providing a great range of drink options, friendly staff and maintaining a connection to its beachside setting.

Image Credit | Zirm Wine Bar & Almanak