Weekend guide to Mollymook, a resort town with major foodie credentials

Come for the surf breaks, linger for the gorgeous food and laidback resort vibes.

Yep, that's Mollymook for you, a sleepy NSW coastal town midway between Sydney and Canberra with a burgeoning reputation for excellent eats and luxurious stays.

Between Molly and neighbouring Ulladulla, they've enough hospitality credentials to satisfy city-slicker sensibilities — while still being chill enough to force you to slow right down and recharge.

This welcoming spot has a habit of luring folks for good, too — no wonder UK celebrity chef Rick Stein was compelled to open his first Aussie resort and restaurant here in 2009, Bannisters by the Sea.

The chef now has a chain of luxury seaside resorts along the east coast, with Bannisters Pavilion completing his luxe (and delicious) Mollymook portfolio — and we'd be lying if we said the two gleaming properties weren't major drawcards for Aussie holidaymakers. The culinary legend has played a significant role in turning the town into a dining destination.

For folks after a coastal weekender, here's how to do Mollymook right.

Restaurants and bars

Milk Haus, Milton

This adorable cafe/restaurant/farm in the former Woodstock Cheese Factory is a little bit out of town — a short drive from the coast along rolling pastures — but is well worth the detour. Visitors will be rewarded with simple and honest dishes, heaving with ingredients from local farmers, artisans and yep, even local home gardeners (it's that kind of vibe). Plus, the site is just so achingly cute.

milkhaus.com.au

The Rooftop Bar & Grill, Mollymook

From suburbia to instant resort vibes, you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard when entering this breezy rooftop gem, situated in the Bannisters Pavilion resort.

Simple and satisfying is the name of the game here, with a menu featuring a mix of Mediterranean-Australian staples, stunning seafood, burgers, steaks and poolside snacks. The vibrant, umbrella-peppered terrace is also the perfect spot for a leisurely brekky or evening margarita.

A big shout-out to the resort's wildly-popular, cheery yellow coffee cart out front, that fixes guests and passersby takeaway coffees, and grab 'n' go toasties and baked treats.

bannisters.com.au

The Ruse, Ulladulla

Started by an ex Sydney hospo veteran, this Central American-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant enjoys a dreamy harbour perch, and makes one helluva taco. We suggest splurging on a 'large plate' (mind you, they are large), and loading those tortillas up with juicy, giant banana prawns, housemade charred pineapple salsa and avocado-almond emulsion. The margaritas are top-notch, as is the lo-fi wine list.

theruse.com.au

Harvest, Milton

Live music, cocktails, garden party vibes — what more could you want? Surrounded by fruit trees and a manicured garden, this rustic bar is all about supporting local musicians and putting on a legendary party. Bring the kids or the girls — everyone's welcome.

facebook.com/harvestmilton

Gwylo, Mollymook

Ask a local where to go for a bite to eat, and chances are they'll point you in the direction of this Asian-fusion gem. Chef Matt Upson's menu takes its cues from his travels in Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur. The unusual name, Gwylo, derives from his nickname while working there "Gwai lo", meaning "white ghost" in Cantonese slang. The menu is a playful take on Asian street eats, with dishes like panko-crumbed mushroom boa bun, hibachi-grilled port ribs and Szechuan fried duck. Bring on the flavour.

gwylo.com.au

Rick Stein, Mollymook

Seafood lovers can beeline for Rick Stein's eponymous restaurant, nestled in the luxurious Bannisters by the Sea resort, where an array of fine fare awaits. The prices are dear, but the venue and dishes certainly ooze a sense of occasion — and the seafood is top-notch and expertly sourced. Be sure to book ahead, as seats fill up quickly on weekends.

The site's Pool Bar is also a stunning spot for a sundowner, hugging the resort's glittering, ocean-front infinity pool and framed by a procession of gums.

If you're staying at their sister property, Bannisters Pavilion, they have a free transfer service between the two venues so you can experience both with ease.

bannisters.com.au/rick-stein

Things to do

Wine tour

The region is also home to a number of superb wineries, perfect for a self-guided tour, though we recommend hitting up Wine Knot Tours who offer fuss-free itineraries that take in local breweries, cellar doors and restaurants — all while traipsing through picture-perfect countryside. Come hungry, as you'll be tasting olives, cheese and sitting down to a tasty lunch, and sipping on local wines and brews.

wineknottours.com.au

Whale watching

If you're visiting between September and October, then may we suggest strolling up to Jone's Beach or making a special trip to the Bannisters Point lookout for a spot of whale watching? For those serious about getting a glimpse of this majestic creature, you can also drive to nearby Jervis Bay for a whale-watching cruise with Dolphin Watch Cruises.

dolphinwatch.com.au

Mollymook Golf Club

As golf clubs go, this one's pretty gorgeous. Perched next to the water with panoramic ocean views, this award-winning hilltop and beachside course is a golfer's dream. It's also home to a popular casual beachside bistro and bar, featuring all the pub favourites — schnitzel, steak and mash, pizza and more.

Accommodation

Bannisters Pavilion Mollymook

Just 80 metres from Mollymook Beach, this chic and modern resort is a terrific home base, offering a heavenly blend of relaxation and coastal fun.

Rooms are stylish, with a beachy aesthetic, and tick all the mod-con boxes. Of course, the pièce de résistance is that gorgeous, heated rooftop pool that juts out seductively over the street below. Snag a daybed and spend the afternoon poolside, sipping cocktails.

bannisters.com.au