Shell House
Last updatedβ 4.0 Β· 881 Google reviews
Shell House is a multi-level venue on Margaret Street, with a Dining Room and Terrace on Level 9, Clocktower Bar, Sky Bar on Level 10 and Menzies Bar & Bistro on the ground floor. It suits a special dinner, a lunch with friends or a bigger celebration. Visitors praise the seafood and the interiors, and the room can get loud when busy. Wynyard Park is a one-minute walk away.
Food at Shell House
The menu leans on seafood, open-fire grills and handmade pasta. Visitors single out the Jervis Bay mussels, and one visitor says the coal grilled damper is worth ordering instead of skipping bread. Steak comes as a 400g scotch fillet cooked over an open fire. Risotto, chicken scarpariello and lobster ravioli also come up. The Chef's Table menu is a set multi-course menu, and dietary adjustments may not be possible on it.
What to order: Scotch fillet cooked over open fire Β· Raw fish plate
Drinks at Shell House
The bars serve cocktails, and one visitor started with a spicy watermelon margarita. Menzies Bar & Bistro runs a Martini Hour daily from 4pm to 6pm, with fresh lobster rolls while they last. Wine is $10 with the $25 handmade pasta offer at Menzies. A bottle of Perrier-JouΓ«t Grand Brut comes with the Crab + Caviar for $150, pre-order only.
Four spaces in one heritage building
The building is a heritage palazzo with several levels that have been revived. The Dining Room & Terrace sits on Level 9, beside the Clocktower Bar. Sky Bar is on Level 10 and has outdoor spaces, while Menzies Bar & Bistro is on the ground floor and serves bistro food. Each room has its own feel, so choose the one that suits the evening.
What customers say about Shell House
- π¬Seafood and grilled dishes get the most praise, with the raw fish and mussels singled out.
- π¬The interiors and setting are described as beautiful and atmospheric.
- π¬Staff are described as attentive and friendly, though a slow bill and busy floors came up twice.
- π¬Value is split: one visitor found the steak overpriced, while another said the quality is worth the spend.
Tips for visiting Shell House
- βBook ahead for the Dining Room; Menzies takes walk-ins for the pasta offer and Martini Hour.
- βService can slow when the room fills, so allow extra time for the bill.
- βThe Chef's Table is one party of two each night, at $175 per person plus $75 for drinks.
Getting to Shell House
Shell House is at 37 Margaret St, Sydney NSW 2000. Parking is available. Wynyard Park is about a one-minute walk away, and Lang Park is about two minutes away.
Near Shell House
FAQ about Shell House
Can I book a table at Shell House?
Yes. Bookings are taken by phone on 02 9158 4000 or by email at reservations@shellhouse.com.au.
Does Shell House have outdoor seating?
Yes. The terraces on Levels 9 and 10 are open to diners, though they depend on the weather.
Can Shell House host a large group?
Yes. Menzies Bar seats up to 40 and takes groups of up to 20 for drinks and snacks, while Sky Bar takes up to 40 for casual groups.
Does Shell House serve lunch?
Yes. Visitors have had lunch in the Dining Room, and Menzies Bar & Bistro serves lunch on weekdays.