Monday, January 24, 2022
The ultimate seafood trail through the Margaret River region
*Part three of a four-part foodie series*
Blessed with a vast sweeping coastline, it makes sense that the South West is one of the best places in the world for fresh seafood. Dunsborough’s famous salmon run in autumn; freshly shucked rock oysters; juicy marron sizzling on the BBQ; dhufish and whiting hauled in on the fishing line; and crab whisked from the waters below.
But if you’d prefer to have your seafood caught and cooked expertly for you, you’re going to adore these eateries on the Margaret River foodie trail.
The ultimate South West seafood foodie trail: 10 of the best eateries (north to south)
Equinox Restaurant & Bar
On the doorstep of Busselton’s bustling foreshore, Equinox is that all-round holiday restaurant open breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. It feels like a getaway from your childhood, dining happily under the enormous leafy trees, sandy thongs beneath the table, and views of the iconic jetty. The seafood tapas board is a big winner, as is the classic fish and chips.
Blue Manna Bistro
Prepare yourself for one of the best meals of your life at this Dunsborough gem. We’re not the only ones who think so – Blue Manna was awarded Best Seafood Restaurant at the 2021 WA Seafood Industry Awards! Devour dishes like crab linguine, crispy whole fish, Japanese ceviche, charred octopus, and crayfish tacos while relaxing on the deck at night under the fairy lights with the Peppermint trees gently swaying in the breeze.
Blue Manna Bistro, Dunsborough.
Lagoon Yallingup
This restaurant-bar-kiosk is Yallingup in a nutshell. Boho chill, the famous surf breaks just metres away, and sun bathing the landscape in a golden glow. And then there is you: cracking crayfish from the mouth-watering seafood platter with one hand, and sipping a crisp white with the other. Lagoon Yallingup screams summer and certainly deserves the hype.
Lagoon, Yallingup. Image courtesy of @lewisfrenchphoto
Wise Wine
Fine dining surrounded by a patchwork-quilt scene straight out of a book, at Wise Wine. You can opt for share plates and/or entrée and mains, with dishes like vodka-cured kingfish, succulent goldband snapper, and octopus with green chilli mayo. Exceptional Wise wine and Wise gin top off the perfect daytime date.
Chow’s Table
Next door to House of Cards, Chow’s Table is the brainchild of renowned chef Malcolm Chow who honed his skills at top establishments Vue de Monde in Melbourne and Tetsuya’s in Sydney. Featuring Chinese/Malay cuisine with a modern twist, there’s a set menu with plates to be shared by the table and includes items like Akoya oysters and WA tiger prawns.
Chow’s Table, Yallingup
Miki’s Open Kitchen
Modern Japanese flair at Miki’s Open Kitchen in Margaret River, where the degustation never, ever fails to disappoint. Enjoy the quiet and intimate dinner experience, choosing either Miki’s Trust, Miki’s Complete, or Hanami. There’s even a kids’ dego! The menu changes seasonally but there’s always a number of seafood dishes, such as delicate Abrolhos Island scallops.
Nami Sushi Bar
A sip of bubble tea, a bite of sushi, and appealing Japanese-inspired décor, Nami Sushi Bar has been a welcome addition to the Margaret River food scene. Open Monday to Friday, this is the perfect place for a quick meal and one that is also suitable for the whole family. The fresh sashimi is to-die-for, as are the colourful poke bowls (pure heaven in a bowl).
Leeuwin Estate
Leeuwin Estate is one of those places that really does belong on a foodie bucket list. The grounds are jaw-dropping with forest wrapped around a sprawling green meadow, making for a grand long lunch with Leeuwin’s legendary four- or six-course set menu. Head chef Dan Gedge started his career with The Stein Group – seafood king Rick Stein, of course – so it makes sense the dishes are 10/10.
The Colourpatch Cafe & Restaurant
With oodles of country charm, The Colourpatch is exactly what you need on a warm day in Augusta. Overlooking spectacular Blackwood River, the outdoor view is like no other. Inside, the bar is made from a restored boat, and there’s a fireplace ready for winter. The menu changes regularly but expect a few excellent seafood dishes on the appetisers and at least one on the mains.
Colourpatch Cafe, Augusta
Notable mentions
Stylish travellers can hop aboard a Taste of the Bays cruise, sailing the pristine waters whilst sipping, crunching, and slurping the delectable seven-course meal crafted by the onboard chef. And if you have a hankering for oysters while you’re on holiday, get acquainted with Get Pickled and Get Shucked at Busselton’s Origins Market.
Takeaway options
The all-time perfect summer takeaway dinner – fish ‘n’ chips! Hooked Up Fish & Chips is one of the best in WA. Find the much-loved food truck at world-famous Surfers Point and savour cajun calamari, fish tacos, panko prawns, and fish burgers as you take in the sunset. Squid Lips in Dunsborough and Margaret River also plates up consistently good fishy fare. If you’re particular with the type of fish or the seasoning, you’ll love Squid Lips’ variety of options. Further south, The Colourpatch Cafe in Augusta has a great takeaway menu featuring oysters, squid, prawns, and beer battered fish.
Indulge in a divine seafood experience on your next getaway to the Margaret River region. Browse our portfolio of luxury holiday homes.
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