Waterfront Bar & Grill

If you're looking for the perfect place to feel the true spirit of Oceania, stop by the Waterfront Bar and Grill. This popular restaurant and bar is located right on the picturesque promenade of Port Vila, offering guests more than just a meal, but a full South Pacific adventure with panoramic views of the harbor and the lush Iririki Island.

Waterfront Bar & Grill. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The establishment is housed under an authentic Natangura thatched roof, creating a relaxed and cozy tropical atmosphere. The menu focuses on the freshest local ingredients: they serve succulent steaks, the famous poulet fish, fresh-caught tuna, and crispy pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. Completing the gastronomic experience is an impressive wine list featuring the best selections from France, Australia, and New Zealand.

This restaurant in Vanuatu is a favorite for both tourists and locals alike. The recently updated interior has retained its charm, while the friendly service and live music make it an ideal choice for a romantic dinner, a family lunch, or a lively birthday celebration right at the water's edge.

For your convenience, we have gathered the current contact information for the Waterfront Bar and Grill. You can book a table in advance, especially if you plan to visit on an evening with live music.

Visit the Waterfront Bar and Grill for gastronomic delights and relaxation. You can book a table right by the water to watch the yachts in the harbor while trying fresh seafood or their signature wood-fired pizza. Be sure to try the local fish — it is prepared here with exceptional skill.

For those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, the perfect time is Happy Hour from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays. This is the best time to order a signature cocktail and meet other travelers. In the evenings, the venue comes alive with the sounds of live music: local bands provide the perfect backdrop for dancing and evening relaxation.

The place is well-suited for all types of guests: high chairs are available for families with little ones, there is a menu for vegetarians and vegans, and there is convenient access for guests with limited mobility. If you are traveling on your own boat, you can moor at the local pier and head straight in for dinner or grab some drinks to go.

The establishment is exceptionally well-located — right in the heart of Port Vila on the bustling Kumul Highway. The restaurant is situated directly on the waterfront, making it an easy-to-recognize landmark for any tourist walking through the center.

If you are staying in the central part of the city, the walk to the bar will only take a few minutes. For those arriving by water, there is a dedicated Waterfront Dinghy Wharf: sailors can simply moor their tender and be at their table instantly. From Bauerfield International Airport (VLI), a taxi or transfer ride will take approximately 15–20 minutes.

For travelers with rental cars, parking is available nearby. The restaurant's location makes it easy to combine a delicious lunch with a visit to other city attractions, such as the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, which is less than a kilometer away.

The Waterfront Bar and Grill is more than just another restaurant; it is a true local institution that first opened its doors in 1980. For over forty years, it has remained one of the most stable and beloved spots on the South Pacific culinary map.

Over decades of operation, the restaurant has gained iconic status among sailors and travelers. This is where the famous "Cruisers Corner" was born — a meeting point for yacht crews from all over the world, where stories are exchanged and future ocean routes are planned.

Despite a recent interior update, the establishment has preserved its authentic spirit. The main architectural highlight remains the traditional Natangura thatched roof, which creates a unique island atmosphere and emphasizes the connection to the archipelago's cultural heritage.

Today, the venue successfully blends rich history with modern service standards, as evidenced by its prestigious Travellers' Choice 2024 award from Tripadvisor. The restaurant continues to be a family-friendly and welcoming home for anyone seeking quality local cuisine in Port Vila.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to enjoy lunch or dinner at a leisurely pace while admiring the panoramic views of the harbor and the boats passing by.

If you plan to visit in the evening when local musicians are performing, or if you are coming with a large group, your visit might extend to 3 hours. The relaxed pace of island life encourages long conversations and unwinding with a glass of wine to the sounds of live music.

The restaurant warmly opens its doors daily, operating seven days a week. Guests are welcome for lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM (please note that the last order is taken at 2:20 PM). Dinner starts at 5:30 PM and continues until 10:00 PM, and on some days, the establishment may stay open until 11:00 PM.

As the schedule may change depending on the season or private events, we recommend checking the official website or calling the restaurant before your visit to confirm the latest information.

The central location makes it easy to complement your restaurant visit with sightseeing at other interesting spots. Just a few minutes' walk away is Feiawa Park, perfect for a seaside stroll. Also nearby is the Coconut Palms Resort & Diamond Casino, offering entertainment for those who enjoy gaming.

For those interested in history, the World War I Memorial and the ANZAC Monument are within walking distance. Below is a list of nearby sites to help you plan your perfect daily itinerary.