Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill — Restaurant in Woodwark

Every local that spoke to us recommended that we try this restaurant, and we turned up on spec, without a reservation on the last night of our holiday. A table was quickly found and we were inducted into the service style. You have to order your drinks at the bar and order your food at the counter, although it is brought to your table. The dining space has a impressive wooden ceiling and has massive bifold doors which offer an amazing view of the harbour. It's a great space to dine in. Despite being busy, and given we only ordered mains, our meals arrived in good time. The two mongels ordered the battered fish, and the chicken and mushroom fettuccine. The fish was spot on! Great batter, fresh crispy chips and a generous salad, although the youngest said that you cannot dress a salad properly by just pouring the dressing over the top once it's on the plate. The eldest really enjoyed the pasta, it was a very generous serve and was very tasty, but it was drowned in the cream sauce, which was very rich. My dearly beloved ordered the seafood hotpot, which was generously supplied with mussels, prawns, fish and a rich and comforting tomato based broth which was very tasty. It was just let down by the 'over cramelisation' of the toast, which was completely burned black on one side. My wild barramundi with pea risotto and fennel was tasty enough, but the risotto was overcooked, and the skin on my fish had suffered the same fate as my wife's bread. I can understand why the chef plated it with the skin side down. All in all, I can see why this place is so popular, it's location and atmosphere is awesome, especially during daylight hours, but it just needs a bit more love in the kitchen to make it first class. Would I come...

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Airlie Beach, Northerlies Bar and Grill offers an experience that is as delightful as the azure waters it overlooks. From the moment you step in, the ambiance sets the tone with its rustic charm, punctuated by modern touches that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The culinary prowess of Northerlies is nothing short of exceptional. Each dish is a testament to the chef's attention to detail and commitment to freshness. Whether it's the locally sourced seafood that melts in your mouth or the succulent steaks that are grilled to perfection, the menu offers a versatile palate that caters to all tastes. The 'Catch of the Day' is always a delightful surprise, showcasing the best local produce in creative and delicious ways.

The bar doesn't take a backseat either, boasting an impressive selection of wines, craft beers, and bespoke cocktails. The 'Coral Sea Breeze' cocktail, a house special, is a must-try, offering a refreshing twist with its vibrant mix of tropical flavors.

Service at Northerlies is exemplary, with staff who are not only attentive but also genuinely passionate about ensuring a memorable dining experience. The views from the restaurant are a breathtaking bonus, with panoramic vistas of the Whitsunday waters making every meal here a picturesque feast.

In summary, Northerlies Bar and Grill is a jewel at Airlie Beach, perfect for those looking to savor great food, enjoy impeccable service, and soak in beautiful views. It's a destination that promises not just a meal but an enchanting experience that will beckon you back...

I seldom do 1-star reviews, but this place went out of their way to make sure our experience was as dismal as possible. The food is extremely overpriced and poorly presented and very slow to arrive. The outdoor area is a long way from where you have to COLLECT AND CARRY YOUR OWN ORDER. The outdoor bar closed at 7.15 precisely despite over 100 people being in the area. The surly barman insulted me to impress his co-worker. Clearly hates the customers and his job. We all left and enjoyed more great service and wine at another establishment. No pictures taken for obvious reasons. No plans to ever return. I will be sure to tell everyone I know that over a period of 5 days we experienced brilliant meals and friendly service across the Airlie beach area. Then there is Northerlies a mean-spirited depressing dust bowl.

UPDATE:

In response to the owner's recent message. I don't think so - I believe this is what's called gaslighting, that sort of fits with the overall experience I have described. Rude is not miscommunication. Our party left and most of the people outside were still there - of course they left relatively soon after - remember - you closed the bar!

As for your comment "No orders were taken in some time" - that's simply dishonest.

No comment about the pricing?

And no - after this response where you disregard our experience - I don't think another visit would be any better.

UPDATE: Surly response deleted from the dust bowl, just like their...