
08 Feb 2023
Which is why when we went to Coogee recently, a drawcard for Sydneysiders and international visitors alike, we asked ex-Qantas flight attendant Terri Pantic where to go. While some attractions are obvious – like the beach and the coastal walk to Bondi Beach – it’s a local like Terri who’s best placed to tell us where to eat, drink and shop.
Terri, who hung up her wings to embark on a new career as an interior stylist, now spends more time on the ground which means more time doing what she loves the most. Hanging out at the beach in Coogee, and nearby Clovelly and Bronte, and seeking out the best places to eat, drink and relax with friends and family.
Where’s the best place for brunch with friends?
“Barzura, hands down! It’s right on the water’s edge with ocean views and plenty of outdoor tables. Barzura is also my first choice for a morning coffee al fresco. I’ll always pick a table outside in the sun and look right on to the beach to sip coffee and watch the “visual entertainment” – watch people exercise and walk their dogs. It’s also a great place to take your dog. The breakfast menu is impressive and extends into brunch (breakfast is served until 12). I always go the scrambled eggs on sourdough with a side of hash brown and haloumi, carb up! The menu is seasonal and there are good vegetarian and vegan options. Barzura is also a lunch and dinner venue. They used to offer takeaway cocktails during lockdown. I really liked that.”
What about a great takeaway?
“There are lots of good takeaway options at Coogee and great places to sit and eat near the water. JP McCaffrey’s Traditional Fish & Chips is my favourite: They make great chips! There are tables out the front but I always take the chips to the beach and fight off the seagulls. McCaffrey’s chips are old fashioned – a good serving in a cardboard box. Just the good old fashioned cut. Just yummy. To eat them on the beach is best, with a cold can of Coke!”
A place that really impresses people is…
“… The Pavilion. It is at the site of what was the aquarium in Coogee, right near the north end of the beach. There are three floors to explore with a rooftop terrace overlooking the water. The Pav – as it’s known to locals – gives you a choice of entertainment and dining areas, including Mimi’s for Mediterranean fine dining. The rooftop terrace offers four bar areas and an amazing view.”
You’ll find me shopping for food at…
“… Maloneys Grocer. Fabulous, fresh, quality produce. A great cheese selection. Many international products, including sauces, spices, chocolates: you name it. And there are many options for fresh, great tasting quick meal options. It’s also complete with a kombucha bar at the front of the store.”
I’d take someone to dinner at…
“… Coogee Wine Room: great vibe, great happy hour (Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm to 6pm). I love their “feed me menu” which includes five signature dishes per head. My favourite dish is the arancini pumpkin with rosemary mayonnaise. It’s great for dinner or just a drink and it’s open late.”
Coogee’s secret gem is…
“… Little Jack Horner. It has everything: great cocktails and bar, good food, atmosphere, live music, and indoor and outdoor eating. And it’s right near the beachfront – it looks straight on to the beach. It’s a standout. The atmosphere is eclectic and intimate. I love the ceiling of pots. I must make special mention that they offer a great bottomless lunch.”
Coogee is a great place to eat because…
“… of the variety of places to eat and drink, with a lot of sidewalk seating and other outdoor spaces that I enjoy. Coogee has a mix of family venues but also hip places to eat and go to. There’s plenty of places to sit outside and people watch – and doggy watch – and of course you can follow that up with a beachside stroll. In summer there’s often busking. It’s a relaxed place with lots of choices from formal dining to take away on the beach.”
Your Coogee address book:
Barzura: 62 Carr Street, Coogee NSW 2034
JP McCaffrey’s Traditional Fish & Chips: 143-145 Dolphin Street, Coogee NSW 2034
The Pavilion: 69 Dolphin Street, Coogee NSW 2034
Maloneys Grocer: 214 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee NSW 2034
Coogee Wine Room: 222 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee NSW 2034
Little Jack Horner: 270-274 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee NSW 2034
Want to explore another part of Sydney? Check out our eat like a local guide to Enmore or strike out for Kingsford.