
You’ll find Yorke Peninsula’s finest seafood at several standout waterfront venues.
Marion Bay Tavern, built from historic jetty pylons, offers stunning ocean views and seasonal seafood platters, while Dalrymple Hotel in Stansbury serves innovative pub cuisine.
Don’t miss the legendary King George Whiting at Port Hughes Tavern or the fresh rock lobster at Lower Yorke Seafood, sourced directly from local fishermen since 1980.
The Smelter CafĂ© in Wallaroo dishes up some of the region’s best fish and chips, and Spirou Seafood specializes in modern Australian cuisine featuring the day’s catch.
There’s so much more to discover along this seafood lover’s paradise.
Must-Try Seaside Dining Spots

Perched along the breathtaking Yorke Peninsula coastline, an array of exceptional seaside dining spots awaits food enthusiasts.
You’ll find the charming Marion Bay Tavern, crafted from historic jetty pylons and jarrah, where you can savour delicious meals while gazing at stunning ocean views.
The Dalrymple Hotel in Stansbury offers innovative pub cuisine paired with spectacular coastal vistas, while Port Hughes Tavern delivers a vibrant atmosphere and delightful waterfront dining. You can enjoy casual pub fare while watching waves lap against the shore.
At Spirou Seafood and Salad in Port Pirie, visitors can enjoy Modern Australian Dishes that focus on fresh local catches. Port Vincent Kiosk offers laid-back dining with beautiful marina views.
For a livelier atmosphere, head to Wallaroo Coopers Alehouse, where local ales complement fresh seafood caught by community fishermen.
The venue is renowned for its sustainable seafood sourcing, supported by the local fishing industry.
In Wallaroo, you can’t miss North Beach Kitchen’s fresh local fare or The Smelter CafĂ©’s delightful breakfasts and fish and chips, both of which offer incredible seaside charm.
Hidden Gems Worth Discovering

Tucked away from tourist hotspots, Yorke Peninsula‘s lesser-known seafood establishments offer authentic coastal dining experiences not found in guidebooks.
With 700 kilometres of coastline, the region provides an incredible variety of fresh seafood options for adventurous diners.
You’ll discover Lower Yorke Seafood, a family-run gem just west of Warooka, where you can purchase the day’s catch directly from local fishers.
For a truly immersive experience, join Kim Lau’s Catch and Cook tours. You’ll learn sustainable fishing practices on these tours before enjoying your ocean-to-plate feast.
The Smelter CafĂ© in Wallaroo serves up some of the freshest fish and chips, while Capella’s in Moonta adds an Italian twist to local seafood.
Don’t miss Pacific Estate Oysters’ ‘Deckie for a Day’ tour in Stansbury – it’s your chance to learn oyster farming secrets and master the art of shucking while enjoying the region’s finest shellfish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Catch King George Whiting?
During Australia’s warmer months, King George whiting is most abundant from October to April. I recommend heading out during calm, clear weather and changing tides for your best chance at a catch.
They’re particularly active during daylight hours, especially early morning and late afternoon. Try fishing in shallow coastal waters, near reefs, or over sandy bottoms with light tackle for best results.
Do Any Restaurants Offer Seafood Cooking Classes or Demonstrations?
You won’t find regular cooking classes at restaurants in the region, but you can join a “Deckie for a Day” experience to learn about oyster harvesting firsthand.
While traditional demonstrations aren’t common, I’d suggest keeping an eye out for special seafood events and festivals where local chefs occasionally share their techniques and tips for preparing the region’s famous catches.
Are There Any Seafood Restaurants That Cater Specifically for Gluten-Free Diets?
While you might think finding gluten-free seafood options is challenging, I’ve found several places that will accommodate your needs.
The Banksia Tree Cafe and Restaurant stands out with its flexible menu and understanding of dietary requirements. Though not exclusively seafood-focused, they’re happy to accommodate gluten-free requests.
Marion Bay Tavern also offers fresh seafood that can be prepared gluten-free – just let them know your requirements when ordering.
Which Restaurants Allow You to Bring Your Own Freshly Caught Fish?
While many local restaurants might accommodate BYO fish requests, you must call ahead to confirm their specific policies.
I haven’t found any that explicitly advertise this service. Your best bet is to contact Wallaroo Coopers Alehouse or one of the local pubs directly – they’re usually pretty flexible with these arrangements.
Don’t forget to ask about their preparation fees and any special requirements they might have.
What Public Transport Options Are Available to Reach These Seafood Restaurants?
You’ll find bus services by YP Coaches and Sealink connecting major towns to Adelaide, though you might need to arrange a taxi for the final leg to some restaurants.
If you’re staying in Adelaide, catch a bus from the central station, as there aren’t any train services to the peninsula.
I recommend hiring a car for the most flexibility—it’s really your best bet for reaching those hidden coastal gems.