Change is in the wind in the seaside town of Kiama. Once a sleepy village, Kiama and surrounds has emerged as the ultimate coastal getaway thanks to a host of talented artisans, producers, restaurateurs and chefs who now call Kiama home.
Kiama region just 90 minutes south of Sydney, stretching from Minnamurra in the north to Gerroa in the south, providing a stunning coastal backdrop to some superior eating and drinking dens.
Kiama still provides the nostalgic coastal holiday experience you crave, but with a touch of luxe thanks to these establishments. Here’s your weekend eatinerary to Kiama:
Parfait Patisserie
For those with a sweet tooth, you can’t go past Parfait Patisserie for divine French-inspired pastries, cakes and breads. Everything is handmade onsite by their talented and passionate pastry chefs. Look out for the stripy awning on Manning Street and detour to deliciousness.
Address: 38-40 Manning St, Kiama
Otis
If you have Ottolenghi cookbooks gathering dust on your shelves, we’ve found the easy way to enjoy Middle Eastern fare with a visit to Otis in Kiama. Former Ottolenghi chef Emily Herbert has opened a café-deli in the high street that is proving popular with locals and visitors alike. Drop in for a la carte breakfast or deli style lunch, you’ll be glad you did.
Address: 13/106 Terralong Street, Kiama
Bouquiniste
We have a real soft spot for bookstore cafes and Bouquiniste is one of Australia’s finest. The small, independent and curated bookstore, established by Kiama locals Clay and Hannah doubles as a café and wine bar making the perfect spot for browsing and bites. It’s a hidden gem and the ideal spot for a weekend wine down.
Address: 1/106 Terralong Street, Kiama
Kiama Farmers Market
Support the local regional producers at the Kiama Farmers’ Market held every Wednesday at Coronation Park adjacent to Kiama Surf Beach. Stock up on supplies for your stay, like fresh fruit and vegetables direct from local growers, milk straight from the dairy, sourdough bread plus cakes, tarts and treats.
Address: 72 Manning St, Surf Beach Kiama
Silica
Taking things up a notch is Silica, a modern Australian restaurant located right on Kiama’s Surf Beach, boasting stunning ocean views and coastline vistas. The menu favours locally sourced and home-grown ingredients, showcasing the very best of the South Coast’s produce.
Address: 72 Manning St, Kiama
Picnic by the Sea
Celebrating a special occasion on the coast? Make it memorable with a pop up picnic set up for you in stunning seaside locations featuring local produce for an incredible outdoor dining experience. Options are available to pre-order platters delivered to your accommodation for hassle free catering or book a fun Gourmet Grazing Platter Workshop and learn the secrets to superior platters by owner Nadia.
Address: Kiama Downs
Gather by the Hill
You’ll love the coastal cool vibes of Gather by the Hill, with its white washed walls, natural timbers and hanging plants thanks to interior designer Simone Mathews from Soul Home and Soul of Gerringong. Enjoy cocktails and a modern Asian menu of bar bites from this hilltop newcomer.
Address: Shop 1, 17 Noble Street, Gerringong
Art Bar Kiama
Seek out this local favourite, tucked in the back streets of Kiama near the Little Blowhole. Art Bar Kiama serves up delicious tapas, craft beers and a wine list featuring local and international wines to the backdrop of a regularly changing contemporary art exhibition. Don’t miss the Sunday Sessions, featuring local live music, creating the perfect mix of cocktails and cool tunes to complete your weekend.
Address: 4 Tingira Crescent, Kiama
Crooked River Wines
Be tempted by a visit to family-owned and operated local winery Crooked River Wines. Situated at Gerringong, sit back and sip award-wining wines while taking in the spectacular valley views. Crooked River Wines is also home to a microbrewery and restaurant for indulgent long lunches.
Address: 11 Willowvale Road, Gerringong
The Blue Swimmer
This bustling beach bistro is an institution in Gerroa. As you’d expect the menu features plenty of seafood items including freshly shucked oysters, kingfish ceviche and steamed mussels as well as a cracking cocktail list to put you in the holiday mood.
Address: 19 Riverleigh Ave, Gerroa
Flour Water Salt
At the heart of this bakery and café is their impressive artisan sourdough. As the name suggests, all their bread contains only three ingredients – organic flour, purified water and Australian sea salt. You’ll also find a selection of bread, cakes, sandwiches, jams and preserves.
Address: 49 Shoalhaven St, Kiama
This is just a taste of what’s on offer during a coastal getaway in Kiama. Support local regional businesses with a visit to this picturesque seaside region and we encourage you to check with individual businesses websites to keep up-to-date with changes to COVID restrictions.
Book your Kiama stay with alluxia or browse Destination Kiama for more travel inspiration.
