Harry's On The Esplanade

We went here for one of our children's birthdays when we were staying at Phillip Island, plus we had a Japanese guest with us as well. Lovely atmosphere and very good service. The menu has standard favourites but all enjoyed their meals, particularly the seafood and desserts. Our guest loved her fish, the view and the candles. One of the better options in Cowes, albeit a bit pricey.

We went to Harry's late on a Saturday night after the Wildlife Coast Twilight Cruise and didn't get there until after 9pm. They were quite happy to give us a table on the balcony to watch the last remnants of the sunset as we had a couple of drinks.

We started with 7 Tasmanian Oysters 4 Ways - 2 Natural with grapefruit and salmon caviar dressing , 2 with mignonette sorbet, 2 kilpatrick and 1 bloody mary shot which was $25. Onto mains ... we only had small ones as we were both pretty full of nibbles from the cruise. Sharon had the Scallops Provencale in a Herb and Garlic Sauce with Salad and I had the Seafood Risotto (both $19.50 for entree size).

The service was excellent and we will definitely be going back next time we are on the Island.

Approximate cost: $35

I took my overseas visitors here. They can afford to eat in any restaurant in the world, so I was hoping to impress.

This was their favourite place to eat in Victoria. They really, really enjoyed it. The seafood is fresh and prepared in an artful manner.

We ate on the balcony on a cold-ish day, but the space heaters kept the ambience a good temperature. I made sure that my visitors were seated facing the sea. The 180-degree views are a really important drawcard of the restaurant.

We had four teenagers with us. One is very fussy. They found enough variety to eat, so they were also happy.

I'd recommend this place as a must-do when visiting Phillip Island. It isn't cheap, but it's well worth it.

Approximate cost: $30