Menu of Fish Face Bar & Grill in Balgowlah, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Fish Face Bar & Grill, nestled in the heart of Balgowlah NSW, offers a compelling seafood experience that balances classic flavors with contemporary flair. The menu showcases a thoughtful selection of small bites, mains, and sides, tailored to satisfy both the casual diner and the discerning palate.

The Sydney Rock Oysters Kilpatrick are a standout among the small bites. Prepared with Worcestershire and bacon, these oysters offer a smoky, savory punch that complements their natural brininess. Whether ordering a half dozen or a full dozen, the oysters set a refined tone for what’s to come. Another highlight is the Bang Bang Prawns, gently battered and coated in a chef’s secret spicy sauce that delivers a memorable kick without overwhelming the palate. The Tuna Crudo, with its pickled ginger, sesame dressing, and betel leaf, offers a light, fresh bite that showcases the restaurant’s skill in handling raw seafood with precision.

Moving to mains, the Snapper and Prawn Pie exemplifies coastal comfort food elevated with finesse. The delicate snapper fillet and succulent tiger prawns meld seamlessly with creamy potato and dill, offering a rich yet balanced dish. Paired with either the signature chips or a mixed leaf salad, this dish is both hearty and fresh. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Seafood Chowder, generously laden with clams, prawns, salmon, and mussels in a creamy, inviting broth. For those seeking variety, the 150g Wagyu Cheeseburger provides a juicy, flavor-packed beef option, complete with American cheese and signature sauce, making it an accessible choice without sacrificing quality.

Signature chips are a simple but satisfying side, perfectly crisp and served with classic tomato ketchup. They pair well with almost everything on the menu.

Customer feedback underscores an overall positive dining experience with some room for refinement. Patrons appreciate the freshness and quality of the seafood, with particular praise for the well-seasoned, generous portions and friendly service. The outdoor seating with its attentive warmth—especially on cooler days—is a thoughtful touch that enhances comfort.

Some voices note that the ambiance can be on the darker side and mention service inconsistencies, such as a less welcoming approach by staff and minor hiccups in dish execution. For instance, one reviewer observed the ceviche missing expected lime juice, and another found the panna cotta a tad dry with textural elements that didn’t entirely work for them. However, these critiques are outweighed by consistent remarks on the friendly staff and high-quality food.

For seafood aficionados and casual diners alike, Fish Face Bar & Grill presents a robust menu inspired by local Australian seafood traditions, served with a modern edge. The balance of flavors, presentation, and portion sizes make it worth a visit, especially paired with the convenience of free parking in a bustling precinct. Overall, Fish Face maintains a fresh and inviting atmosphere for anyone looking to enjoy well-crafted, coastal cuisine.