What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tidal Restaurant & Wine Bar
Review
About
Travellers' Choice
2024
Dine from a fabulous selection of local seafood, ethically sourced and carefully attended to by our Executive Chef Gavin Swalwell. He ensures that only the highest quality products will make it onto your plate. If your not a seafood lover then please try some of our other offerings, like succulent pork, duck or beef along other fresh produce all paired expertly with wine, beer or spirits of your liking. Unwind and relax with your people while our people help by providing you with the perfect cocktail, wine, beer or perhaps a selection from our single malt or gin list and take in the gorgeous Lake views. Choose to sit inside or relax in our outdoor lounges (weather permitting) . ​ Bookings can be made online https://bookings.wowapps.com/make-booking/tidalrestaurant
Features
CUISINES
French, Seafood, Contemporary, Healthy, Australian, Wine Bar, Dining bars
Meal types
Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Gluten free options
FEATURES
Accepts Credit Cards
American Express
Beach
Full Bar
Gift Cards Available
Highchairs Available
Mastercard
Non-smoking restaurants
Outdoor Seating
Reservations
Seating
Serves Alcohol
Street Parking
Table Service
Visa
Waterfront
Wheelchair Accessible
Wine and Beer
Location
Menu
Is this restaurant good for scenic view?
Save this restaurant
Hours
Closed today
Sunday
Closed
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Thursday
11:30 am - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Friday
11:30 am - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Saturday
11:30 am - 2:30 pm5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Contribute
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.8
113 reviews
Excellent
101
Very good
7
Average
3
Poor
2
Terrible
0
Richard S
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • couples
My wife and I decided to eat here on our one night visiting Merimbula because the menu looked interesting and innovative. We hit the jackpot. The setting of the restaurant, with its comfortably elegant decore and relaxing outlook over Merimbula's bay and oyster leases, was a good start. So was the wine list: up-market labels at reasonable prices for restaurants. We had come to the coast for good seafood - and that was what we got. For entree is was grilled octopus - tender and tasty, cooked to perfection and no hint whatever of rubberiness. Then the main course - a baked, ample fillet of Orange Roughy, again perfectly cooked and moist. With it we added baby baked chat potatoes as a side - and they were to die for, their skins left on to give terrific crunch and flavour in a a tangy sauce that didn't kill the palate. Creamy desserts were imaginative, to say the least. And lastly, the situation where restaurants can lose so much: table service. Again, Tidal gets 10/10. The two women serving us were courteous in manner, informative in explanations and prompt in serving - what else is there?
Written 21 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Frank & Lyn
Gwandalan224 contributions
Sept 2024 • couples
This has to be one of the best restaurants we’ve ever been to.
I took my husband here for his 60th birthday, and unbeknown to him, I had asked for them to organise a birthday cake.
On entering this establishment, we were warmly greeted by Fi.
Gavin, (head chef) came out to discuss my food allergies, suggesting alterations that he could make to various menu items. Nothing was too difficult.
Our dining experience could not have been better. The oysters that they serve are freshly shucked, and can be served in several ways. I chose natural, my favourite. My duck was cooked to perfection, with accompaniments that elevated and complimented the flavours. My husband had surf & turf, (eye fillet steak) which he said was the best he’d ever had, enjoying the textures and flavours of the accompaniments.
On this night we had Gavin’s dark chocolate torte (Hubbys birthday cake) for dessert.
I say “on this night”, because we returned to this restaurant twice more to dine that week. This is the first time, in our seven years of being “nomads”, that we have dined three times in the same restaurant within a week. We tried various menu items, all being perfectly presented with complimenting accompaniments.
The ambiance, friendliness, and professionalism, along with their devotion to each of their patrons, makes this establishment beyond reproach, and ensures that you have a delightful experience.
We highly recommend Tidal Restaurant and send a big thanks to Gavin, Fi and staff for giving us the ultimate dining experience.
Written 26 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona Myers
It was an absolute pleasure to meet you both and we hope that your still on the road having fantastic fun and great food. We are so very thankful and blessed to live here on the far south coast with the most amazing oysters right out the front of our restaurant. We love our restaurant and especially love our wonderful customers we get to meet. We hope that you can come back again soon. X
Written 7 November 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
gwegwy
Mt Eliza604 contributions
Nov 2024 • couples
Day 17 of our 20-day trip and our last night in Merimbula. The restaurant is in a great position looking over at the lake and the interior of the place is attractive albeit a little dated. The room was almost full when we arrived but quiet with an almost muted atmosphere. I was reminded of the dinner we'd had a few nights earlier at Waters Edge restaurant at Batemans Bay.
We started with a virgin pinacolada for her and, for me, the smallest martini I've ever had (and it was apparently a double shot). Entrees were scallops for her and a John Dory parfait for me. Both were okay. For mains, she had the fish and I had the lamb. I can't remember much about them. There was also a side of potatoes. The whole menu was a bit like we were eating at a restaurant 20 years ago. Glasses of Warrabilla shiraz were good.
We ate at Wheelers, Bar Monti and Tidal during our stay at Merimbula and I would rank tidal as a distant third.
Written 18 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona Myers
Thanks for taking the time to write a review.
Written 19 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kerry S
14 contributions
Jan 2025 • family
We had an amazing lunch today at Tidal, looking out over Merimbula Lake.
A nice touch was the amuse-bouche of smoky grilled calamari slices served with a remoulade, before our meals arrived. Our entree was the Hokkaido Scallops with Bone Marrow and Caramelised Onion. The scallops were succulent and tender, and the bone marrow and onion, with a rich depth of flavour, complemented the scallops perfectly.
For our mains we ordered the Surf and Turf, which was beautifully cooked and presented, and the Fish of the Day, which was line caught Ling, served with a Jaqueline sauce. Additionally, we ordered roasted potatoes with garlic and rosemary, and roasted pumpkin with feta. Every dish was stunning, and the desserts were interesting and delicious. The service was attentive and nicely paced, and we were made to feel very welcome by Gavin and Fiona. Highly recommend a visit, and will definitely be returning.
Written 30 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona Myers
Thank you Kerry both Gavin and I really appreciate your taking the time to write such a lovely review, we are so very happy that you enjoyed everything and hope to see you again soon.
Written 19 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrew A
Newcastle6 contributions
Apr 2024 • family
We had the most delicious dinner at this restaurant when on holiday visiting my father - we wanted to treat my father to a nice meal and all left very impressed. My husband ordered oysters and the flounder, my father the John Dory, and I had the rib eye fillet - all were cooked to perfection and served with tasty sides. Our desserts were also divine. The service was excellent and the view directly across the lake a bonus. This will be my first choice for special occasion dining for my next visit to the region without a doubt.
Written 21 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Beverly B
Corlette15 contributions
July 2024 • couples
We had heard so much about Tidal and being locals wanted to try it so went there for a birthday lunch. Everything was fantastic, delicious and well worth the rating given. We will be back, great to have such a wonderful dining experience in our own back yard.
Written 21 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betsy G
9 contributions
Mar 2024 • family
We stopped here with a tour off of the Celebrity Edge and had about an hour to bum around the town. We were so excited to find this amazing waterside, open air place!
Fiona immediately welcomed us and ushered us to a primo two top table by the open windows. We were concerned that we wouldn’t have enough time to grab some drinks and a bite to eat, but she assured us that we had plenty of time.
We ordered a couple glasses of local wine (Breakfast Creek Verdelho and Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc) which she swiftly brought to the table. We perused the menu and opted to share a barbecue shrimp appetizer. The appetizer came out quickly and was delivered with a smile by Chef Gavin. It was absolutely beautifully presented and the flavors matched the lovely presentation! It was a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, not to mention the shrimp were perfectly cooked. We were able to take in the amazing view of the water and enjoy our wine and beautiful snack!
Highly recommend! We got dropped off at the visitor’s center (with about 40 other cruise passengers) and everyone with us converged on the closest restaurants/shops. This was literally a 3-4 minute longer walk down the street. We avoided the crowds, but more importantly the experience overall was wonderful (food, host, chef and ambiance)!
Written 7 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jacqui g
Sydney37 contributions
Oct 2022 • none
I just read all the other reviews - our experience was so very different! Dinner Saturday night 7.15 sitting, decided to try Tidal after eating very well at the previous restaurant in its place. By this time 2 items were already off the menu so I chose duck breast and duck leg confit with rhubarb, friend ordered the lamb back strap. Are they trying for haute cuisine? There is a fine line btw rare and raw, I got the raw. Five tiny pieces of rubbery duck breast on a smear of pupkin puree with 2 tiny blobs of a rhubarb coloured puree. Where's the duck leg I asked the obliging waitress. Oops they forgot to put it on my plate...out comes a young appretiss with 2 balls in a tiny bowl. The chef should have done this not sent this young person who had no idea how to manage it. The "balls' were I was told, the duck leg confit. It was awful. In short, Tidal needs to lift its game if it wants to keep charging $40 for fish of the day! I disagree that it is the best on the South Coast. Try Pividori's in Tathra.
Written 29 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GoPlaces02674350497
4 contributions
Feb 2024 • family
Outstanding! Every time we visit the food is exceptional and the staff attentive and friendly. Chef Gavin and Fiona (owners) are fantastic people, excellent business owners and genuinely lovely people who appreciate everyone who walks through the door. Kind, thoughtful and so friendly. They really are the real MVPs of Merimbula.
The food is so good and you won't find fresher seafood!
Cannot recommend Tidal more highly!
Definitely need to put it on your to do list.
Feb 2024
This little slice of Merimbula heaven is a must for anyone visiting the area.
Mum lives here and I visit and each time we go to Tidal.
Always consistent with service, atmosphere, dining, cleanliness and the food. Honestly shut up and take my Money!
The Chef not only cares about the food but always comes out to see his diners and Fi who runs front of house is an amazing lady who also really wants everyone to have a great experience.
All the 5 star reviews for Tidal. Believe them. Every. Single. One!
Great place.
Great team.
Great experience
Written 2 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IanFarnell
Skipton242 contributions
Feb 2025 • couples
We took a last minute chance to visit Tidal.
The service was attentive to the point that we were moved mid dinner to a window seat when it became available without any request from us,very thoughtful.
It was good to meet and chat with the chef.
We had a small joke with him that we were going to Rick Stein the following evening and that he had thrown down the gauntlet with his food.
Rick Stein in his absence put up little or no competition.
I highly recommend Tides for wonderful seafood.
Written 14 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona Myers
Oh how very lovely of you to write such a wonderful review. Hope to see you again one day Ian
Written 19 February 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ferretsinlove
23 contributions
Jan 2023 • none
This new restaurant was highly recommended by a friend. There being a lack of fine dining in our area we jumped at the chance to try Tidal for a leisurely lunch.
The location is delightful and relaxing with lovely water views and a passing parade. Tables are set far enough apart for a degree of privacy, table linen and tableware is of high quality. The atmosphere is relaxing and without pressure.
Staff are incredibly friendly and very willing to please.
Most importantly the food was a delicious surprise.
The chef, who came out and chatted, takes care with his selection of ingredients producing a very high quality of French and Asian influenced but distinctly Australian options. Seafood is of superb quality and beautifully prepared and presented.
The special of the day, which we ordered, was out of stock and we received a personal apology and explanation from the chef with a complementary delicious amuse bouche.
Another delightful and very rare surprise in this part of the world was gorgeous, well presented caviar! Wow!
Unfortunately it is an hour's drive for us over some fairly dodgy roads (made worse by the constant rain) but we will definitely be back as soon as we can.
Written 30 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mushandslush
3 contributions
Sept 2023 • couples
Loved everything about Tidal. Great view across the water. The staff were fantastic , and it was extra special that the chef served the main meal and also checked in to see how we enjoyed all the food. We had the Tide to Table platter and everything on it was divine.
Written 25 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danielle C
Merimbula114 contributions
Apr 2024 • couples
If you’re a foodie you will absolutely love this restaurant, bursting with flavour and cooked to perfection.
Tidals menu is comprehensive with all local seasonal seafood, beef and lamb.
We have been here many times, every dish is delicious seasonal and mouthwatering presentation.
The seafood platter is world class and nothing deep fried.
The service is impeccable from the warm greeting to us leaving.
Fiona is the ultimate host so knowledgeable warm and friendly, with informed recommendations re food and wine.
Felicia made the best Margarita I have ever had. Her service and knowledge of there wines blew us away.
Walking into Tidal which is opposite Merimbula lake with plenty of parking across the road. The ambience is dreamy,
Warm with soft lighting.
Perfectly elegant and relaxed, ideal for any occasion.
Unlike other restaurant there is no time limit to enjoy this experience.
Written 6 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ben M
Canberra5 contributions
June 2023 • couples
Honestly could not fault anything, superb dining experience!
Each course came out in good time, everything was presented extremely well and absolutely delicious!
Oysters for starters were very fresh and tasty.
Wife ordered the lobster lasagna, it was so good I had to order it too!
I had the steak, cooked perfectly medium rare, everything on the plate accompanied it wonderfully.
Wife had the market fish which was also about as fresh as you can get.
Panna cotta for desert was a lovely way to finish it all off.
Staff were very accommodating and genuinely made you feel welcome.
The chef shows genuine passion in each dish.
No hesitation in recommending Tidal and we will most definitely be back.
Written 7 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fiona Myers
Thank you so much Ben for the wonderful review, and yes you are absolutely right Chef Gavin is very passionate about doing his very best, and I was right that you should have ordered the lobster lasagna too Lol but you ended up getting one so that was brilliant. We are so glad that you both enjoyed everything so much and look forward to seeing you again one day.
Written 2 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Peter R
19 contributions
Feb 2022 • none
We were told about Tidal by some other tourists and thought we would try it. Our final night after 2 weeks in Merimbula and we were super impressed.
Set price menu with a few choices for each course but we had trouble choosing as they all sounded good
3 courses was plenty to eat and each course provided beautifully balanced flavours with perfectly cooked food
Staff were very efficient and friendly.
Thanks Tidal for a memorable evening
Written 19 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FiMyers
Was great to meet you both. So glad you enjoyed our restaurant. Hope you made it home safely. Take care Fi
Written 26 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Showing results 1-15 of 113
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Best nearby hotels
See all 
Best nearby restaurants
See all 
Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing