
Classic Restaurants to Dine with Your Friends

by OpenTable Team
Updated August 03, 2023
Hungry for a dining experience that's tailor-made for you? We’ve got you covered. Here are our top restaurant picks for your next outing. Bon appétit!
Credit: Silvester's Restaurant
4.6 (21)
$41 to $100
Modern Australian
Circular Quay
Enjoy a casual dining experience that remains true to our unique story and food philosophy that focuses on simplicity, quality and thoughtfully prepared dishes that are paired with a selection of premium Australian and New Zealand wines, craft beer and signature cocktails.
We look forward to welcoming you.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Top review
A
Anthony
Dined on Feb 19, 2025
Enjoy a casual dining experience that remains true to our unique story and food philosophy that focuses on simplicity, quality and thoughtfully prepared dishes that are paired with a selection of premium Australian and New Zealand wines, craft beer and signature cocktails.
We look forward to welcoming you.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Top review
A
Anthony
Dined on Feb 19, 2025
4.3 (867)
$101 and over
Modern Australian
Sydney CBD
Located right on the edge of Sydney Harbour with the Opera House just beyond your fingertips…it doesn’t get any more Sydney than The Dining Room.
Our produce-driven menu is paired back, sustainable and unmistakably Australian, and shares center stage with unrivalled harbour views. Relaxed and elegant, enjoy the freshest of
seafood, seasonal Australian ingredients, and a selection of fine wines and locally crafted beers and spirits.
Lunch and dinner reservations are highly recommended. Our popular window tables are available at a surcharge when booking and subject to availability. Dress code is smart casual.
Our produce-driven menu is paired back, sustainable and unmistakably Australian, and shares center stage with unrivalled harbour views. Relaxed and elegant, enjoy the freshest of
seafood, seasonal Australian ingredients, and a selection of fine wines and locally crafted beers and spirits.
Lunch and dinner reservations are highly recommended. Our popular window tables are available at a surcharge when booking and subject to availability. Dress code is smart casual.
Top review
P
Page
Dined on Feb 21, 2024
Located right on the edge of Sydney Harbour with the Opera House just beyond your fingertips…it doesn’t get any more Sydney than The Dining Room.
Our produce-driven menu is paired back, sustainable and unmistakably Australian, and shares center stage with unrivalled harbour views. Relaxed and elegant, enjoy the freshest of
seafood, seasonal Australian ingredients, and a selection of fine wines and locally crafted beers and spirits.
Lunch and dinner reservations are highly recommended. Our popular window tables are available at a surcharge when booking and subject to availability. Dress code is smart casual.
Our produce-driven menu is paired back, sustainable and unmistakably Australian, and shares center stage with unrivalled harbour views. Relaxed and elegant, enjoy the freshest of
seafood, seasonal Australian ingredients, and a selection of fine wines and locally crafted beers and spirits.
Lunch and dinner reservations are highly recommended. Our popular window tables are available at a surcharge when booking and subject to availability. Dress code is smart casual.
Top review
P
Page
Dined on Feb 21, 2024
4.3 (10)
$41 to $100
Sushi
Barangaroo
Kokumai means “black rice” in Japanese and is a premium sushi bar operated as a new concept of Japanese restaurant operated with an omakase function.
Seating appx. 60 people and serving up premium roll, nigiri, and sashimi with a great selection of wine, sake, and beer.
*Omakase: Authentic Japanese omakase menu is implemented. Menus made with fresh seasonal ingredients are prepared by the head chef in Kokumai.
**Premium sushi bar: We are operating as a premium sushi bar by using seasonal and superior ingredients.
Seating appx. 60 people and serving up premium roll, nigiri, and sashimi with a great selection of wine, sake, and beer.
*Omakase: Authentic Japanese omakase menu is implemented. Menus made with fresh seasonal ingredients are prepared by the head chef in Kokumai.
**Premium sushi bar: We are operating as a premium sushi bar by using seasonal and superior ingredients.
Top review
R
Ruby
Dined on Feb 24, 2024
Kokumai means “black rice” in Japanese and is a premium sushi bar operated as a new concept of Japanese restaurant operated with an omakase function.
Seating appx. 60 people and serving up premium roll, nigiri, and sashimi with a great selection of wine, sake, and beer.
*Omakase: Authentic Japanese omakase menu is implemented. Menus made with fresh seasonal ingredients are prepared by the head chef in Kokumai.
**Premium sushi bar: We are operating as a premium sushi bar by using seasonal and superior ingredients.
Seating appx. 60 people and serving up premium roll, nigiri, and sashimi with a great selection of wine, sake, and beer.
*Omakase: Authentic Japanese omakase menu is implemented. Menus made with fresh seasonal ingredients are prepared by the head chef in Kokumai.
**Premium sushi bar: We are operating as a premium sushi bar by using seasonal and superior ingredients.
Top review
R
Ruby
Dined on Feb 24, 2024
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4.8 (1205)
$101 and over
Italian
Melbourne CBD
"Everything you want from a sophisticated city Italian restaurant is right here: atmosphere, admirable service, a menu long enough to allow for real choice, an expansive drinks list, flattering lighting, carpets and tablecloths to ensure that sound levels are low enough for a proper conversation."
Enjoy signature dishes - Seafood linguine, Veal Cotoletta and signature steaks from the Josper
One Hat – THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
2006 - 2023
Enjoy signature dishes - Seafood linguine, Veal Cotoletta and signature steaks from the Josper
One Hat – THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
2006 - 2023
Top review
A
Adam
Dined 1 day ago
"Everything you want from a sophisticated city Italian restaurant is right here: atmosphere, admirable service, a menu long enough to allow for real choice, an expansive drinks list, flattering lighting, carpets and tablecloths to ensure that sound levels are low enough for a proper conversation."
Enjoy signature dishes - Seafood linguine, Veal Cotoletta and signature steaks from the Josper
One Hat – THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
2006 - 2023
Enjoy signature dishes - Seafood linguine, Veal Cotoletta and signature steaks from the Josper
One Hat – THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE
2006 - 2023
Top review
A
Adam
Dined 1 day ago
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4.8 (1707)
$101 and over
Modern Australian
St Kilda
Welcome to Donovans - our ‘house on the beach’ and home we love to share. Donovans is located on the St.Kilda beach front offering guests a memorable dining experience in Melbourne. With a bay side view, beautiful Mediterranean inspired food and the special relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant, Donovans is where you will feel at home.
Donovans’ exciting menu has been developed our intimate knowledge of modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu is extensive with a modern mix of favourite dishes emphasising the best local produce. Donovans also offers an extensive wine list of Australian and imported wines and an eclectic mix of cocktails.
Donovans’ exciting menu has been developed our intimate knowledge of modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu is extensive with a modern mix of favourite dishes emphasising the best local produce. Donovans also offers an extensive wine list of Australian and imported wines and an eclectic mix of cocktails.
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Feb 28, 2025
Welcome to Donovans - our ‘house on the beach’ and home we love to share. Donovans is located on the St.Kilda beach front offering guests a memorable dining experience in Melbourne. With a bay side view, beautiful Mediterranean inspired food and the special relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant, Donovans is where you will feel at home.
Donovans’ exciting menu has been developed our intimate knowledge of modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu is extensive with a modern mix of favourite dishes emphasising the best local produce. Donovans also offers an extensive wine list of Australian and imported wines and an eclectic mix of cocktails.
Donovans’ exciting menu has been developed our intimate knowledge of modern Mediterranean cooking. The menu is extensive with a modern mix of favourite dishes emphasising the best local produce. Donovans also offers an extensive wine list of Australian and imported wines and an eclectic mix of cocktails.
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Feb 28, 2025
4.7 (105)
$101 and over
Japanese
Melbourne CBD
A contemporary Japanese dining experience, Warabi emphasises seasonal ingredients and elevated beverage pairings in an Omakase setting, celebrating the Kappo style of cuisine philosophy.
The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.
The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.
The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Sep 28, 2023
A contemporary Japanese dining experience, Warabi emphasises seasonal ingredients and elevated beverage pairings in an Omakase setting, celebrating the Kappo style of cuisine philosophy.
The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.
The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
The Kappo dining experience at Warabi is a set menu that changes at the discretion of the head chef, whose detailed focus is on preparing courses based on the availability of the finest seasonal ingredients. A casual yet refined dining experience, Kappo directly translates to ‘cut and cook' and celebrates the chefs' craftsmanship and precise preparation techniques.
The multi-course 'Impression' menu is guided by the chef and changes daily, where the energy of dishes reflects the seasons and highest quality of ingredients available.
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Sep 28, 2023
4.7 (128)
$101 and over
Italian
Brisbane CBD
OTTO celebrates people, place and la dolce vita. Located on the absolute riverfront at South Bank, OTTO Ristorante and OTTO Osteria bring a vibrant glamour to the Queensland dining scene. Striking river views and colourful interiors meet warm and assured service. The food at OTTO is delicious and unashamedly simple, taking inspiration from the southern regions of Italy. Head Chef Will Cowper’s menu is fresh, seasonal and produce-driven; sourcing the finest local ingredients and letting them speak for themselves. Inspired by his love for Italian varietals, Alan Hunter has written a list that will capture any wine lover’s attention, with a decisive line up of classic and esoteric Italian regions and varietals.
Top review
P
Patrick
Dined on Feb 8, 2025
OTTO celebrates people, place and la dolce vita. Located on the absolute riverfront at South Bank, OTTO Ristorante and OTTO Osteria bring a vibrant glamour to the Queensland dining scene. Striking river views and colourful interiors meet warm and assured service. The food at OTTO is delicious and unashamedly simple, taking inspiration from the southern regions of Italy. Head Chef Will Cowper’s menu is fresh, seasonal and produce-driven; sourcing the finest local ingredients and letting them speak for themselves. Inspired by his love for Italian varietals, Alan Hunter has written a list that will capture any wine lover’s attention, with a decisive line up of classic and esoteric Italian regions and varietals.
Top review
P
Patrick
Dined on Feb 8, 2025
4.8 (4684)
$101 and over
Contemporary Asian
Burleigh Heads
Pan-Asian flavours in one of the Gold Coast's most iconic locations. Focusing on fresh locally sourced produce with intention to share.
By Head Chef James Brady
By Head Chef James Brady
Top review
A
Ashleigh
Dined on Nov 20, 2024
Pan-Asian flavours in one of the Gold Coast's most iconic locations. Focusing on fresh locally sourced produce with intention to share.
By Head Chef James Brady
By Head Chef James Brady
Top review
A
Ashleigh
Dined on Nov 20, 2024
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4.6 (656)
$101 and over
Steakhouse
Barangaroo
Discover Steersons, an elegant waterfront steakhouse nestled on the upper level of King St Wharf (accessible via Lime St). Immerse yourself in a refined yet inviting ambiance. Whether you choose to unwind on the terrace or dine indoors with captivating harbour views.
Allow the friendly and experienced team at Steersons lead you through a selection of the highest quality beef cuts, all sourced from premium locations across the country, including Northern & Southern Tablelands, and the renowned Riverina region.
Elevate your dining experience by selecting a wine from the impressive 150+ wine list, or explore the extensive collection of single malt whiskies.
No matter the occasion, Steersons promises to deliver the ultimate steak experience.
Allow the friendly and experienced team at Steersons lead you through a selection of the highest quality beef cuts, all sourced from premium locations across the country, including Northern & Southern Tablelands, and the renowned Riverina region.
Elevate your dining experience by selecting a wine from the impressive 150+ wine list, or explore the extensive collection of single malt whiskies.
No matter the occasion, Steersons promises to deliver the ultimate steak experience.
Top review
R
RonVIP
Dined on Mar 4, 2025
Discover Steersons, an elegant waterfront steakhouse nestled on the upper level of King St Wharf (accessible via Lime St). Immerse yourself in a refined yet inviting ambiance. Whether you choose to unwind on the terrace or dine indoors with captivating harbour views.
Allow the friendly and experienced team at Steersons lead you through a selection of the highest quality beef cuts, all sourced from premium locations across the country, including Northern & Southern Tablelands, and the renowned Riverina region.
Elevate your dining experience by selecting a wine from the impressive 150+ wine list, or explore the extensive collection of single malt whiskies.
No matter the occasion, Steersons promises to deliver the ultimate steak experience.
Allow the friendly and experienced team at Steersons lead you through a selection of the highest quality beef cuts, all sourced from premium locations across the country, including Northern & Southern Tablelands, and the renowned Riverina region.
Elevate your dining experience by selecting a wine from the impressive 150+ wine list, or explore the extensive collection of single malt whiskies.
No matter the occasion, Steersons promises to deliver the ultimate steak experience.
Top review
R
RonVIP
Dined on Mar 4, 2025
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4.5 (483)
$101 and over
Steakhouse
Sydney CBD
A traditional steakhouse experience with a modern twist, Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse has all the sophistication of an established steakhouse yet its rustic charm gives it a funky edge on the rest. A veteran but a pioneer none the less, the oldest, wisest but coolest steakhouse on the Sydney block where the best steakhouse experiences happen.
Top review
E
ElaineVIP
Dined 3 days ago
A traditional steakhouse experience with a modern twist, Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse has all the sophistication of an established steakhouse yet its rustic charm gives it a funky edge on the rest. A veteran but a pioneer none the less, the oldest, wisest but coolest steakhouse on the Sydney block where the best steakhouse experiences happen.
Top review
E
ElaineVIP
Dined 3 days ago
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4.5 (316)
$101 and over
Italian
Woolloomooloo
OTTO celebrates people, place and la dolce vita. Situated in the spectacular surrounds of the Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, OTTO has an undeniable reputation as one of Sydney’s most respected dining institutions.
At the heart of the restaurant is old world hospitality and long-standing relationships held with a fiercely loyal clientele. Approachable yet refined service greets modern Italian cuisine, alfresco dining and trademark waterside views.
OTTO is the quintessential Sydney dining experience and has remained a local favourite for over 17 years.
Top review
L
Lorraine
Dined on Nov 27, 2024
OTTO celebrates people, place and la dolce vita. Situated in the spectacular surrounds of the Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, OTTO has an undeniable reputation as one of Sydney’s most respected dining institutions.
At the heart of the restaurant is old world hospitality and long-standing relationships held with a fiercely loyal clientele. Approachable yet refined service greets modern Italian cuisine, alfresco dining and trademark waterside views.
OTTO is the quintessential Sydney dining experience and has remained a local favourite for over 17 years.
Top review
L
Lorraine
Dined on Nov 27, 2024
4.2 (324)
$41 to $100
Steakhouse
Brisbane CBD
Executive Chef Dario Fiorino brings you a premium range of Australian beef featuring wagyu, in-house dry-aged steaks, and sustainably sourced seafood – all cooked on our open grill and balanced with Mediterranean aromas. A native Milanese, Chef Dario’s menu features Italian, Spanish and French influences, exquisitely complimenting the grill’s naturally infused char, scent and flavour.
Top review
E
Errol
Dined on Dec 11, 2024
Executive Chef Dario Fiorino brings you a premium range of Australian beef featuring wagyu, in-house dry-aged steaks, and sustainably sourced seafood – all cooked on our open grill and balanced with Mediterranean aromas. A native Milanese, Chef Dario’s menu features Italian, Spanish and French influences, exquisitely complimenting the grill’s naturally infused char, scent and flavour.
Top review
E
Errol
Dined on Dec 11, 2024
4.6 (916)
$41 to $100
Modern European
Newstead
Nationally acclaimed and award winning E'cco Bistro was founded in Brisbane in 1995 by one of Australia's most celebrated chefs, Philip Johnson. For the past 25 years, Philip and his team at his landmark bistro have taken a sure yet simple approach by serving unpretentious food to the delight of all diners alike, this has cemented E'cco's reputation in the culinary landscape.
Having relocated from its original location in Brisbane CBD to the fast growing inner-city residential mecca, Newstead, E'cco has been positioned to prosper for the next 25 years and beyond.
As Philip says "We do as little as possible with the best ingredients available."
Having relocated from its original location in Brisbane CBD to the fast growing inner-city residential mecca, Newstead, E'cco has been positioned to prosper for the next 25 years and beyond.
As Philip says "We do as little as possible with the best ingredients available."
Top review
LM
LionelM
Dined on Oct 28, 2023
Nationally acclaimed and award winning E'cco Bistro was founded in Brisbane in 1995 by one of Australia's most celebrated chefs, Philip Johnson. For the past 25 years, Philip and his team at his landmark bistro have taken a sure yet simple approach by serving unpretentious food to the delight of all diners alike, this has cemented E'cco's reputation in the culinary landscape.
Having relocated from its original location in Brisbane CBD to the fast growing inner-city residential mecca, Newstead, E'cco has been positioned to prosper for the next 25 years and beyond.
As Philip says "We do as little as possible with the best ingredients available."
Having relocated from its original location in Brisbane CBD to the fast growing inner-city residential mecca, Newstead, E'cco has been positioned to prosper for the next 25 years and beyond.
As Philip says "We do as little as possible with the best ingredients available."
Top review
LM
LionelM
Dined on Oct 28, 2023
4.3 (1626)
$41 to $100
Steakhouse
Brisbane CBD
Black Hide Steak and Seafood by Gambaro at Queens Wharf will enchant and entertain guests by offering world-class Queensland steak as the hero cuisine, and a selection of mouth-watering seafood dishes.
Experience and savour exceptional personalised guest service and a divinely rich atmosphere that can only be delivered by blending intricate and cutting-edge design with worldly charm and sophistication.
Overlooking the Brisbane River and within an easy stroll of the city’s arts and cultural South Bank precinct, this stunning restaurant will be perfectly positioned on level 4, on the terrace of the new extraordinary Queens Wharf
Surcharges applies for weekends and Public Holidays, a service fees will apply to all credit card transaction
Experience and savour exceptional personalised guest service and a divinely rich atmosphere that can only be delivered by blending intricate and cutting-edge design with worldly charm and sophistication.
Overlooking the Brisbane River and within an easy stroll of the city’s arts and cultural South Bank precinct, this stunning restaurant will be perfectly positioned on level 4, on the terrace of the new extraordinary Queens Wharf
Surcharges applies for weekends and Public Holidays, a service fees will apply to all credit card transaction
Top review
D
David
Dined 3 days ago
Black Hide Steak and Seafood by Gambaro at Queens Wharf will enchant and entertain guests by offering world-class Queensland steak as the hero cuisine, and a selection of mouth-watering seafood dishes.
Experience and savour exceptional personalised guest service and a divinely rich atmosphere that can only be delivered by blending intricate and cutting-edge design with worldly charm and sophistication.
Overlooking the Brisbane River and within an easy stroll of the city’s arts and cultural South Bank precinct, this stunning restaurant will be perfectly positioned on level 4, on the terrace of the new extraordinary Queens Wharf
Surcharges applies for weekends and Public Holidays, a service fees will apply to all credit card transaction
Experience and savour exceptional personalised guest service and a divinely rich atmosphere that can only be delivered by blending intricate and cutting-edge design with worldly charm and sophistication.
Overlooking the Brisbane River and within an easy stroll of the city’s arts and cultural South Bank precinct, this stunning restaurant will be perfectly positioned on level 4, on the terrace of the new extraordinary Queens Wharf
Surcharges applies for weekends and Public Holidays, a service fees will apply to all credit card transaction
Top review
D
David
Dined 3 days ago
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4.7 (291)
$101 and over
Modern Australian
Surfers Paradise
A unique fine dining experience with a fully curated wine list and locally sourced ingredients.
Situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, Palette offers a unique blend of art and food on the Gold Coast.
Dayan and his team in the kitchen will extend your art experience, taking inspiration from artworks on display and major exhibitions to show just how naturally art and food blends.
Top review
J
Jessica
Dined on Feb 23, 2025
A unique fine dining experience with a fully curated wine list and locally sourced ingredients.
Situated in the stunning HOTA Gallery, Palette offers a unique blend of art and food on the Gold Coast.
Dayan and his team in the kitchen will extend your art experience, taking inspiration from artworks on display and major exhibitions to show just how naturally art and food blends.
Top review
J
Jessica
Dined on Feb 23, 2025
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4.2 (660)
$101 and over
Breakfast
Sydney CBD
Dear valued guests,
Kitchens on Kent will be taking some time to reimagine its future offering, and in the interim will no longer be offering buffet lunch or dinner together with afternoon tea. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause for any plans you had to dine with us.
From Monday 6th November 2023, our offering will change, serving daily breakfast for hotel guests only.
A La Carte lunch will be available on a request basis in our Harbour Room (Monday to Friday) whilst our Observatory Bar will offer A La Carte dinner seven nights per week as well as lunch on weekends.
All bookings that are affected will be fully refundable and our team are in the process of contacting all guests with more details. For any specific issues or requests, please email tlsyd.kitchensonkent@langhamhotels.com
Kitchens on Kent will be taking some time to reimagine its future offering, and in the interim will no longer be offering buffet lunch or dinner together with afternoon tea. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause for any plans you had to dine with us.
From Monday 6th November 2023, our offering will change, serving daily breakfast for hotel guests only.
A La Carte lunch will be available on a request basis in our Harbour Room (Monday to Friday) whilst our Observatory Bar will offer A La Carte dinner seven nights per week as well as lunch on weekends.
All bookings that are affected will be fully refundable and our team are in the process of contacting all guests with more details. For any specific issues or requests, please email tlsyd.kitchensonkent@langhamhotels.com
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Jan 1, 2023
Dear valued guests,
Kitchens on Kent will be taking some time to reimagine its future offering, and in the interim will no longer be offering buffet lunch or dinner together with afternoon tea. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause for any plans you had to dine with us.
From Monday 6th November 2023, our offering will change, serving daily breakfast for hotel guests only.
A La Carte lunch will be available on a request basis in our Harbour Room (Monday to Friday) whilst our Observatory Bar will offer A La Carte dinner seven nights per week as well as lunch on weekends.
All bookings that are affected will be fully refundable and our team are in the process of contacting all guests with more details. For any specific issues or requests, please email tlsyd.kitchensonkent@langhamhotels.com
Kitchens on Kent will be taking some time to reimagine its future offering, and in the interim will no longer be offering buffet lunch or dinner together with afternoon tea. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause for any plans you had to dine with us.
From Monday 6th November 2023, our offering will change, serving daily breakfast for hotel guests only.
A La Carte lunch will be available on a request basis in our Harbour Room (Monday to Friday) whilst our Observatory Bar will offer A La Carte dinner seven nights per week as well as lunch on weekends.
All bookings that are affected will be fully refundable and our team are in the process of contacting all guests with more details. For any specific issues or requests, please email tlsyd.kitchensonkent@langhamhotels.com
Top review
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dined on Jan 1, 2023
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