Mosman: The oceanside suburb that screams 'Sydney'

Sparkling ocean views while you’re sipping your morning coffee. Wide, leafy streets lined with double-fronted Victorian-era homes. A busy high street that heaves with small-village charm and local designer boutiques. Mosman is it: the oceanside suburb that screams “Sydney”.

This north-of-the-bridge neighbourhood is as accessible via that ocean as it is by land – opting for the direct ferry between Mosman Wharf and Circular Quay is a magical way to roll in and out of the CBD. Flanked by waves, native bushland and Taronga (that *very* scenic zoo), Mosman’s 28,000-or-so residents have everything at their fingertips to live large and slow. Big on experience, relaxed in style.

Park up for the day at Balmoral, where the often lake-like water makes for a breezy day at the beach. Or venture further for a break from summer crowds: a five-minute walk down a bushy track will take you to Obelisk Beach, a bay of clear blues framed by sun-soaked rocks. It’s more Med-style if you continue south to Chowder Bay. Dip in, then dine on the waterfront verandah at Ripples, the adored (and newly renovated) fine diner in heritage-listed sandstone digs.

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All over Mosman you’ll find waterside kitchens overseen by some of Sydney’s finest chefs. Bathers’ Pavilion shines on the water, in a staggering white 1929-built art deco beauty. Its rows of arched windows and pair of palms at the entrance evoke Wes Anderson films, while inside, executive chef Aaron Ward captains fine plates like roasted eggplant with sambal, black sesame and enoki mushrooms; Murray cod with black pepper, pine nuts, currants and soured onions; and cured snapper finished with yuzu, apple and wasabi. Outside there’s a swish take on all-day dining and a charming kiosk, too. Pasture of Balmoral, just across the road, is for any brekkie classic needs like avo on toast and fruity take on bruschetta topped with sliced mango, stracciatella and prosciutto on sourdough.

You could grab a seat for dinner too, for dishes like squid ink linguine gamberoni tossed with prawns, market fish and gremolata; and crab meat risotto with cherry tomatoes and crispy shallots. Or head to Alessandro Pavoni’s icon Ormeggio at The Spit for a dining room that offers vistas out to Middle Harbour. Start with oysters and a slab of focaccia, made in-house using a 22-hour process and served with a dollop of baccala mantecato (a traditional Venetian condiment made from whipped salt cod and olive oil).

Venture up the slopes and you’ll find a community that’s looked after by fromageries, boutique bottle shops and sourdough bakeries, plus florists, delis and string of high-end boutiques. At the junction of Military Road and Spit Road, you’ll find yourself at the centre of much of Mossman’s shopping activity. It’s easy to keep it Aussie: the floaty silhouettes at clothing label Lee Mathews neighbour the dainty designs at Sarah & Sebastian, while the streetwear is chic at Venroy opposite. Find luxe basics at Bassike and the soft linen your home needs at Cultiver.

Agent lens

with Michael Coombs from Atlas

What are your favourite luxury features?

Having worked in luxury real estate for two decades, I’ve witnessed extraordinary homes that redefine luxury style. Each year a new luxury standard emerges with a notable trend towards bold resort-style designs that captivate buyers. Wellness areas for meditation and yoga have become essential, enhancing the appeal of these properties. Additionally, generous master bedrooms and spacious entertaining areas continue to be highly sought after, reflecting the evolving desires of today’s luxury market.

For sale in Mosman

For Sale - Contact Agent

15 Balmoral Avenue, Mosman NSW 2088

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Perched on Balmoral Slopes, this architect-designed home delivers panoramic Middle Harbour vistas spanning across multiple levels. Its light-filled interiors are complete with a seamless indoor-outdoor living space, a luxe marble kitchen, four spacious bedrooms, plus a heated outdoor infinity lap pool. Also find a media room, wine cellar and home office – all within minutes of Balmoral Beach.