Sydney’s Shark Beach and the Nielsen Kiosk have finally reopened after a long three-year hiatus, and the timing couldn’t be better for a dip and some really good fish and chips. After being closed for the restoration of the century-old seawall, Shark Beach has welcomed swimmers once again, with its pristine waters and stunning views now better protected against the elements. The iconic Nielsen Kiosk, a favourite spot for beachside bites and coffee, is also back in action, providing a perfect post-swim hangout.

The beach closure began in March 2022 to replace the 100-year-old seawall, with the project initially expected to wrap up by December 2022. However, delays from bad weather, the discovery of asbestos, and an engineering dispute delayed the opening. But now, with construction fences finally down, Sydneysiders are eager to dip their toes back into the water and enjoy the newly revamped facilities.

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The Kiosk is part of the Nielsen hospitality complex by the beach, which also includes the Nielsen, Pavillion and the Beach Club event space, owned and operated by Sydney Restaurant Group’s Perry and Bill Drakopoulos. But don’t expect the typical eastern suburbs Med vibes. The Kiosk is less about flake wrapped in paper (though you can absolutely get a cracking fish and chips to go) and more about tender marinated octopus with blistered cherry tomatoes, salsa verde, and Sicilian olives. Or perhaps a salad of miso-roasted butternut pumpkin dusted with dukkha on a bed of harissa yoghurt. 

Chef Jordan Middleton’s menu is full of seaside favourites like crisp rings of calamari, and wagyu burgers for takeaway, alongside sit-down options like pizzas, tuna poke bowls, and schnitzels. For early-morning swimmers, Australian classics are the order. Among the tidy breakfast menu, you’ll find smashed avo with basil oil and macadamia pesto; banoffee French toast with salted caramel on brioche; and maple bacon and egg rolls with spiky pickled tomato relish.

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Lazy Sunday lunches staccatoed by swims deserve a proper drinks list too. Local and international beers and wine or shared summery cocktails like the Made In Havana – a blend of Bacardi Coconut Rum, orgeat, vanilla, pineapple, lime, and soda – will cool you down before a sandy stroll by the water.

Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays, and lunch is served daily. The Nielsen is located at Shark Beach in Nielsen Park, access off Greycliffe Avenue, Vaucluse. Head to the website for details.

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