We have been to Waterbird at least six times over the last two years. It is our "go to" lunch spot for special occasions and we have taken inter-state and overseas visitors there several times. The actual venue is an old converted boat shed, recently spruced up with a coat of paint, etc. We always have a table on the deck over the water, and feeding the fish is part of our ritual. Let's be clear - this is not a flash fine dining establishment - it is very basic, minimal staff (usually just Jim the owner/manager/chef/host/waiter and one person serving, etc.), small menu, no airs and graces. But the seafood is fresh and nicely prepared, with an interesting twist. The prices are not dirt cheap...
We were staying at Manning Point, and wanted a change from BBQ food. This restaurant is in a stunning part of the village, overlooking the river. The food we ordered was very nice although a bit overpriced. Also, I think the waitress was a bit new and didn't seem to know the difference maple syrup and balsamic vinegar; sadly I didn't check either, assuming she had brought vinegar as asked, and proceeded to pour maple syrup on my salad. Luckily I only poured a very small amount, but it did detract the enjoyment of the meal.
Despite the great service and utterly "to die for views", the food at this restaurant lets it down very badly. The oysters kilpatric were barely warm and drowned in a thick glutinous sauce with par cooked bacon. The "tempura prawns" were really battered prawns which tasted strangely garlicky and the seafood chowder was devoid of flavour. Give it a miss and get takeaway somwhere else and enjoy the waterside view just the same.
This lovely little cafe cum boat shed is located in a beautiful spot on the Manning Rivernear where it joins the ocean.Sitting out on the deck was a really tranquil experience on aglorious day.The service was first class, the food average but it was all about the location.Just to get to Manning Point was interesting as you can get there via Old Bar &so to go for a drive & end up at the Waterbird Restaurant was a plus.
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waited 15 minutes to be acknowledged or seated by staff. We ended up seating ourselves. Waited another 10 minutes, still no one approached us. I went and asked if someone could come and take our order, and I was told "yes certainly".... We waited 5 more minutes and left. I recommend the take away shop across the road. Great coffee and the kids chips are ready promptly.
Visited for the first time, lunch was had on the verandah which is built over the water with stunning views along the Manning River. We had the Seafood Plate and a couple of beers. Whilst not a la carte, the food was tasty and well presented, quantity was ample and reasonably priced, with friendly smiling service.We'll be back.
Came here for lunch Fathers Day 2016. On our table of 5 we ordered the seafood plate, the seafood chowder and the crab cutlets. Everybody loved their meals. Service was quite quick and the staff very pleasant. Spent the afternoon having a few drinks looking out over the amazing view over the water. Just delightful !
This is available Wed to Sun for $7.50; two small scones and tea. This was served promptly and had proper cream. Beautiful view; nice staff member.
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Greeted by average service after making a 45 minute drive to this restaurant after the promises of "waterfront dining".
What a spectacular place to have lunch, on the verandah over the water of the inlet.
