Intimate booth seating at Restaurant Santino, one of the most highly recommended restaurants in Wollongong. Photo: Ashley O’Neil, Malty Media.
Who doesn’t love digging into a delicious meal at one of the best places in town?
A restaurant isn’t just a place to eat – it’s a place to create memories, experience different cultures through food and enjoy unique, vibrant atmospheres. Finding the right restaurant is key to having an exceptional dining experience.
Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a casual meal with friends or explore new cuisines, having access to great restaurants can make all the difference in your culinary adventures.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a restaurant, and share where to find the best in Wollongong.
What makes a great restaurant?
Choosing the right restaurant can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a restaurant:
- Food quality. The most important aspect of any restaurant is the quality of its food. Look for restaurants that use fresh, high-quality ingredients and offer a menu that appeals to your tastes. The skill and creativity of the chef can also play a significant role in the dining experience.
- Menu variety and flexibility. A great restaurant will offer a diverse menu with something for everyone, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The ability to cater to different dietary needs and preferences can make a restaurant more inclusive and enjoyable for all guests.
- Ambiance and atmosphere. The environment of a restaurant can significantly enhance your dining experience. Consider the decor, lighting, noise level, and overall vibe of the place. Whether you prefer a cozy, intimate setting or a lively, bustling atmosphere, the ambiance should match your expectations.
- High class service. Exceptional service can elevate a dining experience from good to great. Look for restaurants with friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable staff who can make recommendations and ensure that your dining experience is smooth and enjoyable.
- Cleanliness and hygiene. A clean and well-maintained restaurant is essential for a pleasant dining experience. Pay attention to the cleanliness of the dining area, restrooms, and kitchen (if visible). High standards of hygiene indicate a restaurant’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for its guests.
The best restaurants in Wollongong
Region Illawarra’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best in Wollongong series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback online and maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant
Overlooking Belmore Basin on Wollongong Harbour, Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant has been the Illawarra's go to dining destination for fresh, local and sustainable seafood for more than 30 years.
Known for its stunning views, delicious food and experienced, passionate service, more than a thousand diners have raved about Harbourfront Seafood Restaurant in positive online reviews, like this one from Chris Adam:
"Can’t ask for a better location. Food was exquisite, service was exceptional, friendly and attentive."
Da Orlando Pizzeria
Voted Best Pizza in Wollongong two years in a row, Da Orlando Pizzeria specialises in traditional Roman-style pizza, pasta and desserts.
Founder Orlando leveraged more than a decade of experience in some of Sydney’s best hospitality venues to fulfill a lifelong dream of creating his own venue, where patrons can enjoy fresh, authentic Italian dishes made with love and purpose.
"If you want the old fashioned taste of Italian dishes you have come to the right place," Sasha Puskarcuk says online.
Restaurant Santino
Tucked into a lively central Wollongong laneway, Restaurant Santino is an Italian-style bistro known for its diverse menu and art deco ambience.
Traditional and contemporary dishes are kept on rotation by talented chefs, who proudly pair the freshest ingredients and best wines with house-made pasta, made fresh daily.
"Loved the dim ambience and classy decor the moment we stepped in! The Feed Me lunch menu was fabulous and each dish was full of flavour," Michelle Shen says online.
Karma Tea House
Standing as 'a beacon of tradition and health' on Wollongong's popular Keira Street, Karma Tea House is known for its delicious Taiwanese cuisine.
Karma Tea House is strictly meat-free, offering vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes loaded with flavour. The restaurant also offers a comprehensive range of quality vegetarian ingredients for cooking at home.
Vivian Chong reviews on Google, "I am so impressed. I had the mixed mushroom noodle soup and brown sugar rice cake, they were delicious and just hit the spot. The lotus tea paired perfectly. "
Ciao Cucina
One of the most highly rated traditional Italian restaurants in Wollongong's bustling CBD, Ciao Cucina is known for its relaxed trattoria style eats and lively atmosphere.
Ciao Cucina patrons enjoy licensed indoor and outdoor seating, exceptional service and authentic dishes on a rotating menu.
"I can't rate this place highly enough," Silv M says in a glowing online review. "Everyone there is amazing. Food, service, beautiful people. The best experience every time we visit."
If you’re looking for more information on dining in Wollongong, you might also like our articles on the best cafes Wollongong has to offer.
Your experience with restaurants in Wollongong
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the Wollongong restaurants listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wollongong have a restaurant district?
Wollongong is lucky to have many brilliant dining destinations spread throughout the city. There's no dedicated district to house them, but that just means more opportunity to explore everything the city and its surrounds has to offer.
Do I have to book before going to a Wollongong restaurant?
While most restaurants try to leave a few tables available for walk-ins, it's good restaurant etiquette for you to book at least a few hours ahead of time. Not only does this make it easier for you to plan your evening, but the restaurant will also be able to guarantee you a table. If you turn up without a booking, there's no guarantee that you will be seated, especially if you're out on a busy night.
Can any restaurant cater to my dietary requirements?
Most restaurants have alternative options for gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian diners, but it's a good idea to call ahead to make sure, especially if you have an allergy or intolerance.
How long can I stay at my table in a restaurant?
Depending on the venue, most restaurants will expect to turn over a table at least twice a night, which should give you a maximum of two hours to finish your meal. When you make your booking, ask the restaurant about seating periods to find out how much time you have for your meal.
What is the difference between regular and fine dining restaurants?
There are distinct differences between regular and fine dining, but this doesn't necessarily mean one is 'better' than the other. It's all about your preferences. Your run-of-the-mill restaurant tends to have a larger menu, casual vibe and friendly table service. Fine dining is a more formal experience with smaller, more selective menus, distinct service and etiquette - and a heftier price tag.
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