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Dreaming of dining underwater like at an aquarium? At Fishbowl Chatswood in Sydney, this unique experience becomes reality. With floor-to-ceiling aquarium windows surrounding the dining room, Fishbowl lets patrons feast on gourmet seafood fare while immersed in an underwater world of sharks, fish, and rays.
Below we dive into everything you need to know for a memorable aquatic dinner at Fishbowl Chatswood. From the marine life and theater of the tanks to the menu highlights, continue reading to uncover why this venue is one of Sydney’s hottest seafood dining destinations.
Step Into a Sunken Ship
Stepping inside Fishbowl is like entering a futuristic underwater world. The totally immersed dining room is built to look like a sunken glass shipwreck, complete with “ship debris” touches like rusted pipes along the ceiling.
The ship theme comes to life as you peer out through arched glass walls revealing sharks, schools of fish, stingrays, and turtles swimming past just on the other side. The 270 degrees of floor-to-ceiling ocean views make you forget you’re in a suburban Sydney shopping center.
Dining feels even more underwater thanks to strategic lighting creating shifting blues and greens throughout the space. Ominous horn and sonar sound effects add drama when large sharks swim past. This theatrical environment makes for aquatic ambiance unlike any other Sydney restaurant.
The Theater of the Tank
While the menu entices, the real star of the show is the open theater of the tank. The largest aquarium in Australia at the time of opening, the enormous cylindrical tank houses 2.5 million litres of ocean water.
As you dine, witness graceful manta rays gliding past, schools of fish swarming in unison, tiny seahorses bobbing along, and alien-like sea dragons floating ethereally. On any given night, you may catch divers hand feeding the sea life or technicians caring for the creatures.
Should a massive shark swim near the glass, you’ll be immediately engrossed in its powerful presence. Fishbowl’s tanks brilliantly bottle the fascination of the ocean in one dining room.
Fishbowl’s Seafood-Centric Menu
Done gawking at the marine life? Turn your attention to Fishbowl’s extensive seafood-focused menu sourcing premium Australian ingredients.
Sections include:
- Raw Bar – Fresh local Sydney rock oysters, kingfish ceviche, tuna tartare
- From the Ocean – Grilled and pan-seared fish, lobster, scallops, prawns
- From the Pans – Paella, seafood linguine, chilli mussels in wine broth
- The Fishbowl – Shellfish towers brimming with oysters, prawns, lobster tails
Beyond seafood, you’ll also find juicy steaks, pastas, risottos, and salads plus a globally inspired cocktail menu. With its variety, Fishbowl pleases both seafood fanatics and any easygoing dining companions along for the underwater adventure.
Logistics: Opening Hours and Reservations
Fishbowl Chatswood is open daily for lunch and dinner. Hours are:
- Monday – Friday: 11:30am to 10pm
- Saturday: 11:30am to 11pm
- Sunday: 11:30am to 9:30pm
Book ahead online to secure tables overlooking the key tank views. Walk-ins are sometimes accommodated at bar seating or community tables.
Slip into a booth and watch marine life swirl while indulging in seafood and sipping cocktails. Fishbowl delivers a delightfully memorable night out in Sydney.
FAQs About Visiting Fishbowl Chatswood
Want to plan your visit to Sydney’s premier underwater dining experience? Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
What’s parking like near Fishbowl?
Fishbowl is located within Westfield Chatswood. The shopping center has ample paid parking available in various zones.
Is Fishbowl appropriate for kids?
Absolutely! Fishbowl welcomes families and has kids menus available. Children will love watching the sea creatures.
What’s the dress code?
Fishbowl has a casual dress code – no need to dress up. Come as you are and feel comfortable.
Is wheelchair access available?
Yes, Fishbowl has an accessible entrance and elevator access to the dining level. Please let them know any access requirements when booking.
Are reservations required or can we walk in?
Reservations are strongly recommended. Walk-ins are sometimes available but not guaranteed seating with tank views.
Let the theatrical aquarium surroundings entertain while you indulge in quality seafood at Fishbowl Chatswood. An underwater world awaits!
