When it comes to dining on the water, you don’t get much closer to the ocean than Scratchleys on the Wharf, Newcastle.
This harbor front restaurant is renowned amongst Novocastrians as being one of the top Seafood Venues in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, and for good reason.
As you drive up Wharf Road, it’s impossible to miss the stunning architecture of the sail-like establishment. Before you even step through the doors, the views overlooking the picturesque ocean and the salty sea aromas draw you in.
As the friendly and attentive staff lead us to our waterfront table, we began to realise how close to the ocean we really were. Overlooking the ocean in every direction you look, it’s obvious this restaurant boasts uninterrupted views all year round.
The moonlit harbour was mesmerising as we ordered our drinks and had a look at the menu for dinner. I can only imagine the scenery over a sunlit lunch, watching the boats of the harbor sail by.
I ordered the char-grilled Marlin Fillet with sautéed bacon, shallots, seeded mustard herb roasted potatoes, smoked paprika aioli and sweet soy drizzle.
And making a return for this month’s edition, the pickiest eater in the world, my partner, ordered his signature Chicken Schnitty and Chips (hold the salad) served house crumbed golden fried with a rich gravy and fries.
As an iconic seafood restaurant, it’s great to see there is a variety of options to please the not so fishy palate’s.
My Marlin dish was grilled to perfection. Every single ingredient in the dish complimented the other. The zesty smoked paprika aioli adds the perfect tang to the melt-in-your-mouth fish. Adding every ingredient to each mouthful, it was the perfect mix to create delightful, fresh flavour.
The Chicken Schnitty, in my partners own words, was tender and juicy and was fried a crispy golden brown. The dish was consumed within a solid 4 minutes, almost a new record for the worlds pickiest eater. A top schnitty in his books.
For the true seafood lovers, I watched as towers of fresh, vibrant coloured seafood were delivered to surrounding tables. A venue famous for these towers of seafood, that’s sure to be my choice for my next visit (with the company of a less picky eater).
Whether you’re heading to Scratchleys for lunch or for dinner, you won’t be disappointed. Book for a romantic dinner, take the family for lunch or even book for a function or wedding, and don’t forget the takeaway window for those picnic perfect days.
Visit www.scratchleys.com.au for full menu and dining options. |