If you’re staying at the Ramada Hotel & Suites Ballina, you’re already in one of the best waterfront spots on the Northern Rivers. Perched on the banks of the Richmond River, the hotel is perfectly positioned to soak up everything that makes Ballina such a special destination – coastal charm, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant, relaxed food scene.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a long weekend with friends, or a family holiday, there’s something magical about dining right by the water. From casual breakfasts with a sea breeze to long lunches and sunset dinners, Ballina delivers some seriously impressive options.
To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve rounded up five standout waterfront venues, all within a short drive or walk from the Ramada, that combine great food with unforgettable views.
Saltbush Restaurant at Ramada Ballina
Modern Australian dining with a front-row seat to the river
Located onsite at the Ramada, Saltbush is more than just convenient – it’s one of Ballina’s best dining experiences. The restaurant offers sweeping views over the Richmond River, best enjoyed with a glass of wine or one of their expertly crafted cocktails in hand.
Open seven days for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Saltbush focuses on modern Australian cuisine with premium local ingredients. Think fresh seafood, house-made sauces, and standout steaks – including award-winning Jack’s Creek Wagyu and Angus. Whether you’re watching the boats drift by over a relaxed breakfast or enjoying a romantic riverside dinner, Saltbush delivers a stylish, flavour-packed dining experience right at your doorstep.
👉 Website: saltbushballina.com.au
📸 Instagram: @saltbushballina
Capiche Restaurant, East Ballina
Italian-inspired dining with unbeatable ocean views
Set high above Lighthouse Beach, Capiche offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and a menu full of coastal Italian flair. It’s the kind of place where you linger over house-made pasta and woodfired pizza as the waves crash below.
The setting is effortlessly cool – all whitewashed timber, warm lighting, and laidback vibes – making it ideal for both lazy afternoon lunches and lively date nights. Pair a prawn linguine or burrata salad with a spritz or signature cocktail, and you’ve got one of Ballina’s most scenic and satisfying dining experiences.
👉 Website: capicherestaurant.com.au
📸 Instagram: @capicherestaurant
Wharf Bar & Restaurant, Ballina CBD
Casual riverside dining with live music and happy hour charm
A short walk from the Ramada, Wharf Bar & Restaurant sits right on the river in the heart of Ballina. With its spacious deck, relaxed atmosphere, and all-day menu, it’s a go-to for everything from morning coffees to sunset drinks.
The menu is a mix of crowd-pleasing classics and fresh coastal flavours – think woodfired pizzas, seasonal salads, and beautifully cooked seafood. Drop in for the daily happy hour (4–6pm), or visit on a Sunday afternoon for live acoustic tunes on the deck. It’s a popular local spot for good reason: the vibe is easy-going, the views are stunning, and the food always hits the mark.
👉 Website: wharfbarballina.com.au
📸 Instagram: @wharfbarballina
Shelly Beach Café, East Ballina
A beachfront gem perfect for breakfast, brunch, or sunset sessions
Tucked into the dunes just steps from the sand, Shelly Beach Café is a must-visit for lovers of beachside brunches and ocean air. With open views across Shelly Beach, this little café punches well above its weight when it comes to quality and charm.
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 7am to 3pm, the menu leans into fresh, seasonal ingredients with an international twist – from nourishing bowls and vibrant salads to perfectly brewed coffee and house-baked treats. On Friday evenings, the café comes alive with their popular Sunset Sessions, complete with live music and sunset nibbles. It’s an idyllic place to unwind after a day of exploring.
👉 Website: shellybeachcafe.com
📸 Instagram: @shellybeachcafe
Ballina RSL Club
Family-friendly dining with river views and something for everyone
Sitting right on the Richmond River just up from the Ramada, the Ballina RSL is a local institution. Its modern design and spacious waterfront deck make it a great option for casual dining with friends or family – especially if you’re looking for variety.
The Boardwalk Restaurant offers an extensive menu with fresh seafood, burgers, pasta, steaks, and vegetarian options, all served in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Add in a kids’ club, regular live entertainment, and multiple bars and lounges, and you’ve got one of the most versatile dining venues in town.
👉 Website: ballinarsl.com.au
📸 Instagram: @ballinarsl
Your Taste of Ballina Awaits
From riverside elegance to beachside bites, Ballina is brimming with incredible dining options that make the most of its coastal setting. Whether you’re starting your day with ocean views at Shelly Beach Café or toasting the sunset over the river at Saltbush, these spots serve up more than just great food, they offer a true taste of the region’s lifestyle.
And the best part? When you stay at the Ramada Hotel Ballina, you’re right at the centre of it all.
