Quarterdeck

For more than 20 years, tiki-inspired bar Quarterdeck has sat right on the water at Wagonga Inlet. It’s not a stretch to call it a local institution – and while it was taken over by Merivale in 2021, the hospitality group only gave it a light refresh, maintaining its seaside charm.

The menu is by Merivale executive chef Jordan Toft (Mimi’s, Bert’s), who has packed it with plenty of seafood, as well as dishes inspired by Latin America. Think local-fish ceviche, yellowfin tuna tostadas, tacos filled with battered whiting, and grilled corn topped with chilli salt and shavings of cheese.

The tiki energy ramps up on the cocktail front, and the drinks here are rum-heavy. The list takes in classics like Banana Daquiris, Pina Coladas and Mai Tais – exactly what you'd want to drink as the sun goes down over the water.