We heard Coogee Bay Hotel’s Beach Bar & Dining has a new menu, so we went to check it out.
Coogee Bay Hotel’s Beach Bar & Dining is the kind of place where the ocean views are only half the story.
This coastal hotspot is buzzing – literally. At times, the soundscape is a little chaotic: a DJ spinning on one side, an acoustic set on the other, and the packed courtyard buzzing with chatter. But that’s part of its charm: it’s alive, vibrant, and unapologetically social.
The crowd’s a lively mix of twenty-somethings out to see and be seen, local foodies, and celebrations of every sort fills the space with a friendly, inclusive buzz.
Led by Executive Chef Justin Schott (ex-Mimi’s), the menu leans into fresh, generous flavours. We tried the tofu poke bowl, beetroot and plum salad, ricotta gnocchi in pomodoro and vodka sauce with chilli, cherry tomatoes, basil, and macadamia pangrattato, and the smoked eggplant tostada with corn, guindillas, salsa macha, and jalapeño mayo. Have to say – the tostada stole the show – smoky, rich, and the kind of dish you’d happily eat all to yourself. Steak lovers are well catered for too, with the 250g Black Angus MB3 rump or 300g sirloin, served with chips or mash, gem lettuce, and your choice of sauce, plus the option to add grilled prawns with ancho chilli butter for a luxe upgrade.
The signature cocktails, Coconut & Yuzu Margarita or Pineapple Old Fashioned, are summer in a glass.
Whether you’re staycationing, visiting from out of town, or just getting swept up in the courtyard partying, Coogee Bay Boutique Hotel’s blue line makes it easy to find your way back to your room. Beyond the bar and dining, the hotel itself offers the perfect coastal escape: sunrise walks, seafood by the shore, and sunset drinks with panoramic ocean views, all complemented by all-inclusive packages that include breakfast, dinner, undercover parking, and wi-fi.
I didn’t actually stay long, for me it was a short and sweet work trip – but if you’re after boutique hotel vibes, this spot really delivers. The place is a magnet for all kinds of travellers – interstate visitors, solo adventurers, people on working trips – everyone quietly soaking up the relaxed, vibey atmosphere. Some were ducking out to grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant, others just back from lounging by the beachfront (with gelato in hands) where buskers add a dose of incredible, seaside charm. ( in this case – encouraging seaside revellers to partake in a little salsa)
My room faced the back street, giving a quiet view of the neighbouring apartments. I can only assume the other side has those coveted beachfront views – so if you’re booking a staycation, definitely request a room facing the beach. The room itself was minimal, clean, and comfortable, perfect for a work trip when you need a calm space to unwind after a long day.
The hallways had their own life too, filled with the sounds of TVs and a few kids enjoying a little beach-side holiday, which added a charming, lived-in feel. It’s small but quaint and surprisingly tucked away, considering its location at the back of Coogee Beach. Far more family-oriented than the rowdy front bar, it felt like a quiet little haven amidst the usual buzz.
Whether you’re chasing a seaside party, or just a rejuvenating staycation, Beach Bar & Dining balances beachside elegance with a lively, can’t-miss atmosphere.
More info here.
