Ripples Chowder Bay is a modern Australian restaurant in a renovated heritage building on Chowder Bay Road, Mosman. Come for a meal beside Sydney Harbour, with water views from the outdoor deck and an indoor dining room in the historic former military site. The menu draws on Australian and Mediterranean flavours, with seafood, seasonal dishes and cocktails; favourites mentioned include king prawns and truffle fries. It suits a long lunch, a special dinner or a stop after the Taronga Zoo to Balmoral foreshore walk. Plan for steep roads and stairs around the approach.
A former military site by the water
Ripples occupies a renovated 19th-century building at Chowder Bay. The site was once associated with military operations to defend Sydney Harbour, including its use as a submarine miners’ depot. It was formerly restricted to military purposes, and its opening to the public marked a change in access to this part of the harbour.
The building is painted white and uses weatherboard walls to divide the interior. Its heritage setting gives the restaurant a different feel from a purpose-built dining room, while the harbour remains in view from the restaurant and its outdoor areas.
What to expect from the menu
The kitchen’s modern Australian menu takes European and Mediterranean influences, with seasonal produce and seafood among its draws. Dishes noted on the menu include barramundi and spaghetti vongole, alongside coastal options such as fish and chips. King prawns, oysters and truffle fries are also mentioned as choices to look for.
The restaurant serves cocktails and has an extensive wine collection. BYO is available, so you can bring a bottle if that suits your meal. Seasonal set menus have also been offered; check what is available when planning a visit, as the menu can change.
Make it part of a Mosman outing
Ripples sits on the Taronga Zoo to Balmoral foreshore walk, and the Bradley’s Head to Chowder Bay walk is another route to the area. A meal here can work as a destination at the end of a walk, or as a pause during a day around Mosman’s harbour foreshore.
You can also reach Chowder Bay by water taxi or charter boat and disembark at Chowder Bay Wharf. The surrounding roads and paths include steep sections and stairs, so consider the approach when deciding how to get there. Clifton Gardens is nearby, with a beach and greenery along the foreshore.
A setting for celebrations
The waterfront location and restored heritage building are part of the appeal for special meals and private events. The space has an indoor restaurant, outdoor seating and a private dining area. Its position beside the water also makes it a wedding venue, with Clifton Gardens within walking distance for photographs.
For a quieter meal, request a suitable table when booking, particularly if you prefer to sit away from busy doors or larger groups. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner. The setting is the main reason to plan ahead: a seat by the harbour lets you take in the bay while you eat.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Ripples Chowder Bay?
It is at Building 7 C, Chowder Bay Road, Mosman, beside Sydney Harbour. The restaurant is on the Taronga Zoo to Balmoral foreshore walk.
Can you get to Ripples Chowder Bay by boat?
Yes. Water taxis and charter boats can reach Chowder Bay Wharf.
Does Ripples Chowder Bay take bookings?
Yes. Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner.
What kind of food does Ripples Chowder Bay serve?
The menu is modern Australian with European and Mediterranean influences. Seafood options include barramundi, oysters and spaghetti vongole.
