There’s no shortage of fabulous Bondi dining spots and drinking holes. Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to fresh and delicious cuisine, equally matched by killer views across the ocean. Here’s our list of the top six to match every taste and budget.
Speedos Café
Arguably the most prized location in Bondi (and a sign that claims to be the world’s most Instagrammable café) Speedo’s Café sits directly opposite the North Bondi beach ramp, constantly thriving with surfers, locals, visitors, dog walkers and everything in between. If the people watching isn’t reason enough to perch yourself here for the morning, then this Bondi dining hub’s fluffy pancakes with banana and maple syrup are a sure lure. The coffee isn’t bad either, especially if you grab it takeaway to enjoy during your promenade or coast walk.
Totti’s
Merivale never puts a foot wrong and Totti’s is a prime example of yet another Justin Hemmes’ midas touch. Nestled out the back of the infamous old Royal Hotel in South Bondi (or So-Bo as the locals call it) this is a chic little restaurant hidden behind the pokie machines and yesteryear paraphernalia of the old pub. But this Bondi dining space is anything but drab. Picture an airy courtyard with a lush central tree, a smoking wood fired pizza oven, bespoke cocktail bar, and a modern Italian menu (that is too cool to include French fries). This is where the A-list Bondi crew head for their lazy long lunches and weekend soirees. Top tip, order the slow cooked lamb shoulder to share and you’ll experience the best of Bondi dining. Bookings recommended.
North Bondi Fish
With the prime position of Speedo’s Cafe overlooking North Bondi (No-Bo) and with the uppercut menu of celebrity chef Matt Moran, here is your hip and happening local restaurant for sunny afternoon seafood gatherings. Grab a table out on the deck under the glowing yellow umbrellas and kick back to the tunes of the in-house DJ while succulent seafood dishes waft across the room.
Weekends get very busy here with the fashion set and influencers all jostling for a seat at the table so get there early or book a table. Better yet, head there on a weekday when you can savour the views and the best of Bondi dining through pan-fried tuna and fresh salads without interruption.
Hotel Ravesis
Ravesis is the grand old dame of Bondi, kind of like the wise brothel Madam who has seen many eras of clientele and had many facelifts. Today she is dolled up in trendy white and pink colours with arched doorways covered in bougainvillea and it suits her. Subdued by day, but with an open-air balcony that looks down over Campbell Parade and Hall Street where the main shopping and commuting happens, it’s a great spot to watch the world go by.
By night, she transforms into a bustling night spot where the cool crowd lines up around the corner to impress the bouncers and secure a spot in front of the live music and pumping bar scene. While the food menu isn’t really the drawcard here, the cocktails are pretty tasty – even if they are roughly $20 for a small glass containing a few sips.
Icebergs Dining Room and Bar
For a very special Bondi dining treat this is where you want to be. A special occasion, someone you want to impress, or just because you deserve it, grab your Amex and book a table (complete with white tablecloth) at the seriously sauve Icerbergs Dining Room. Distinctly different from the rowdy members bar just one level below, your silver service waiters will silently cater to your every whim during your seating, allowing you to gaze resplendently out over the glistening waves beyond the large glass windows.
If you’re here to splurge, then the fresh lobster is the way to go, proudly displayed on a bed of ice as you enter. And for a digestif, simply relocate to the bar at the end of the room for equally stunning views over Bondi. Bookings are essential. Top tip, this is a place for lunch rather than dinner. You’re here for these views, which are much more impressive by day.
Sean’s Bondi
Known simply as Sean’s, this is possibly the best kept secret of Bondi. Tucked behind the North Bondi Surf Club, in a quaint little hub of cafes and boutiques, the red and white striped awnings will welcome you to an intimate little dining gem. Eclectic artworks cover the walls and waiters weave their way between tightly nestled tables in this cosy little space. The menu is anything but little mind you, with a compulsory set three-course menu plus optional matching wines, all designed to perfectly surprise and delight your palate.
Meals are perfectly proportioned, with modern twists on fresh produce – which highly acclaimed chef and owner Sean Moran actually grows himself at his farms in the Blue Mountains. This is the perfect Bondi dining place for an ambient meal. Also, night or day with someone who enjoys their flavours and a setting equally as fabulous, is perfect for either lunch or dinner. Bookings are essential. The three-course menu is $120 per head.
