As boats bob on the shimmering harbour, a mix of lovers, lunchers and hotel loafers sip cocktails on Pier One wharf. Thanks to the sweeping views, it’s impossible not to be mesmerised when dining at this peaceful waterfront idyll. This is no stitched-up hotel restaurant. The kitchen at The Gantry focuses on producing uncomplicated, stand-out dishes using the best produce sourced from around Australia, including Eugowra quail and Flinders Island wallaby. A welcome change, this restaurant knocks our perceptions of hotel dining out of the park.

Pier One Hotel, 11 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay; (02) 8298 9910    

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