On a roof terrace overlooking Cockle Bay Wharf (Darling Harbour) is Coast. The restaurant presents a modern contemporary dining experience in a perfectly Sydney position – of course, we refer to the view.

Here though, it’s actually more than just view. The design, staff and interesting Australian menu keep this Sydney stalwart ageless. In fact, there’s still the same relaxed sophistication here, which makes this one worthy of a locals to-do list. It is Cockle Bay’s No. 1.

The beach house analogy works too – that is if we’re talking about the dream beach house over Palm Beach way. In an age where architects are almost as core as the chef, Coast was perhaps ahead of its time.

A quick note: We did actually sneak upstairs to the Rooftop Bar for our starter. Probably not the usual structure…but hey there’s something to be said for these shared plates and that rooftop – they’re grandiose (aren’t they usually small – note to self) and packing quality cuts. Try it our way and head to the rooftop for their artisan meats plate – prosciutto, capocollo, bresaola, salami, grilled lamb cutlets, duck liver parfait all presented delightfully with some pickled veggies.

It’s an evolving market menu at Coast but at time of writing Agenda was a little ga ga for the flathead with slow cooked green beans, tomato and fried capers and a salad of grilled red witlof, parsley and orange. If you’re lucky that will sneak onto the Express Menu – two courses with coffee and petit fours for $45. Dishes are finely executed!

So how ‘bout it!? Let’s all stare longingly out across the harbour and pretend you truly are on the coast. The views are there, the ‘locals’ friendly and the furniture rustic. The dream is easier to achieve at Coast…perhaps even easier after a few goes at the enticing 300-strong wine list.

Where: The Roof Terrace, Cockle Bay Wharf, 201 Sussex Street || Ph: (02) 9267 6700