Castaways Beach Bar & Grill - Mission Beach, Queensland

Ade L.

Having been impressed by our previous visit, we were excited to return to this restaurant. However, our second visit was nothing short of disappointing.

For a venue within a 4-star hotel, we expected the food and service to match the premium prices. Unfortunately, they fell far short of expectations.

From the moment we arrived, we noticed a lack of attention to detail. Despite having a reservation for three people, we were presented with a table for two. Even though the restaurant had only a few occupied tables, the service was disjointed and lacked professionalism.

Ordering at the counter and bar felt more like a casual eatery than a refined dining experience.

To make matters worse, the staff seemed uninformed about the provenance of their meat and were unsure about product availability—a major issue for a venue at this level.

The wine service was particularly underwhelming. There was no presentation of the wine, and the staff’s knowledge of the selections was minimal. We felt unimpressed and questioned the value of the experience.

Basic expectations like providing table water and steak knives without needing to ask were overlooked, further diminishing the experience.

While I understand that paying more for better food, service, and ambiance is reasonable, this restaurant has become overpriced for what it offers. It no longer reflects the standards you would expect from a 4-star hotel.

Overall, it was a very disappointing experience, and we will not be returning.

Angela D.

Had to go to bar to order. No table service. Had to get own menus. No water on the table. Not enough service staff. The girls were friendly and did their best. Not sure who is responsible for training but could do better. Food was pub food with top restaurant price. Drinks were delivered to wrong table, and we received other tables orders. One person on our table didn't get their food because the staff got the table number wrong way around. Won't be going back.

Andrew

Deeply disappointing. Top shelf prices with bargain basement service. Terribly slow service - some weird "order at the bar" nonsense has ruined this place. 3 lamb chops do not equal "rack of lamb", and definitely do not justify the $49 price tag. Until there's a serious reshuffle of management, avoid this place at all costs. I hope they can take on some constructive criticism and get back to what they once were.

Louise J.

Disappointing for the cost. From first course to the last. There where some good tasty food but very few. Toast on first 2 courses, plain could have been pita or olive toast and no butter on 2nd course. Four prawns for 2 people. Bugs where not the best. Coffin bay oyster they where not. Was meant to be Brussels sprouts, one cut in half, broccolni over cooked. Turkey cut in way too big slices. Potato's great. The desert was the biggest disappointment, could have been way better. Cheese platter what a joke, not even one grape. Water not even placed on a coaster, water dripping over table waitress didn't even wipe down mess or bring coasters. Way too long between 2 entree and main meal. Will not be recommending or attending again.

wawalulutalk

We had an awesome lunch here after a walk at the Clump national park. The gentleman who works in the dining area was really friendly, joyful and efficient, he recommended us the duck shank special was delicious, and also the Korean wings, chicken katsu buns were all good. You can also walk along the beach after the meal here. Good atmosphere, good food and good service here.

Nikita M.

I am deeply disturbed by the way the staff are treated by the management. The work environment is toxic, with managers routinely placing undue stress on employees, making baseless threats, and creating an atmosphere of fear. It’s clear that the management has no regard for the well-being of their staff, and this lack of respect translates into poor service for guests.

It’s heartbreaking to see hardworking employees constantly under pressure with no support or proper leadership. Instead of taking responsibility for the resort’s shortcomings, the management continues to make poor decisions that directly impact both staff and guest experience. This kind of mismanagement is evident in every aspect of the resort—from long delays in service to staff looking overwhelmed and unhappy.

If you’re looking for a resort where you can expect quality service, a positive environment, and fair treatment of employees, this is definitely not the place.

Amanda M.

Came here for a birthday dinner this evening .
I’m not sure what has happened to food quality in the last 8-10 months but it’s definitely taken a dive.
3 out of 4 meals were inedible .
Fish was not fresh and dry
Pasta was hard and not cooked, and the steak did not have any flavour .
Service was great, but the food was not up to par for what we paid .
We’ve been here many times last year and never had any problems.
Disappointed this time around and hope that the food quality improves.
Unfortunately we won’t be back

Victoria V.

Had the absolute pleasure of stopping by for an overcast breakfast. Had the most delicious, tasty and well cooked food in mission beach. Great price for quality and quantity of portions, the banana and bacon pancakes were incredible. Lovely staff, everyone was so friendly and helpful. Beautiful venue in front of the beach. Honestly can’t wait to go back! Thank you!