Sydney is known for its stunning coastline and thriving seafood scene, so when I heard about Ocean’s Bounty, a waterfront restaurant promising the freshest seafood straight from the ocean, I knew I had to check it out. Nestled in Darling Harbour, this restaurant has been making waves among food lovers, boasting a menu filled with locally sourced, sustainable seafood. With high expectations, I set out to see if it truly lived up to its reputation.
From the moment I stepped inside, the ocean-inspired ambiance set the tone for what was to come. Large windows framed breathtaking harbor views, while the soft glow of hanging lanterns and rustic wooden tables created a relaxed yet upscale feel. The scent of grilled fish, buttery garlic prawns, and freshly shucked oysters filled the air, immediately whetting my appetite.
I started my meal with their signature seafood platter, a stunning arrangement of oysters, king prawns, blue swimmer crab, and seared scallops. The oysters, served with a zesty mignonette sauce, were incredibly fresh—briny and slightly sweet, as if they had just been pulled from the ocean. The prawns were plump and juicy, while the crab meat was delicate and flavorful, needing only a squeeze of lemon to enhance its natural taste. The scallops, seared to perfection, melted in my mouth with every bite.
For the main course, I opted for their grilled barramundi, a local Australian favorite. The skin was crisp and golden, while the flesh was moist and flaky, served over a bed of creamy saffron risotto with a side of roasted asparagus. Every bite was packed with flavor, proving that sometimes the simplest preparations bring out the best in seafood.
I indulged in their coconut and passionfruit panna cotta, a tropical-inspired dessert that was light yet satisfying. The creamy panna cotta had the perfect wobble, and the tangy passionfruit coulis balanced its sweetness beautifully.