Summer doesn’t ease into Sydney Fish Market — it arrives early, briny and buzzing. By the time the sun starts to sparkle on Blackwattle Bay, the Market is already alive with colour, movement and the unmistakable energy of the sea. This is a classic summer’s day here at Sydney Fish Market, with its unique sights and tantalizing tastes – all as it happens, one moment to the next.

7:00am | Where the ocean meets the counter
The day begins with seafood at its freshest. Across the Market floor, our fishmongers are laying out the morning’s best straight from the seafood auction room just next door. Prawns gleaming, whole fish and crab on ice, and oysters freshly shucked with precision and speed. With all the knowledge you need just behind the counter, be sure to ask what’s in season and what’s the best value of the day. This is where your summer seafood menu takes shape.

8:30am | Just warming up
If you’re up this early, you’ll soon be on the lookout for a fresh brew. If that’s not enough to lure you deeper into the Market, you may be enticed by the smell of fresh bread and pastries from Waterside Bakehouse – an irresistible contrast to the salty air. Just steps away, Blackwattle Deli adds depth to the day — olives, cheeses and antipasti that turn a seafood shop into a hunt for the perfect summer spread. These are the quiet heroes of a great table, the flavours that bring everything together.

10:00am | Fresh and fruity
As the temperature climbs, Fruitezy delivers exactly what summer asks for: vibrant fruit, fresh juices and colour in every direction. Endless selections of summer fruit varieties, from bright cherries, juicy watermelon to sweet stone fruits – each a delicious snack or ready to take center stage atop your summer dessert, salad or picnic table.

11:30am | Seafood, ready when you are
By late morning, stomachs are surely rumbling and ready to dig into the star of the show – the seafood. The Sushi Bar at Peter’s Fish Market hums with activity, serving crowd-pleasers - sashimi, prawn tempura and their famous arburi from a selection of baby octopus, scallops or crab legs covered in cheese and kissed by fire.

1:00pm | Long lunches, Market-style
If a long lunch is more your style, The Boatshed Pyrmont delivers on indulgence with generous seafood classics designed for lounging and enjoying the sun. Browse and take your pick of the freshest crab and lobster catch within the live tanks and enjoy a drink as it’s prepared for you. Paired with harbour views and good company, it’s the kind of meal that defines summer — relaxed, generous and unhurried.

2:30pm | The perfect pairing
Having had your fill, attention turns back to the final touches to your summer seafood table and Fisherman’s Fine Wines helps complete the picture. Crisp whites and easy-drinking summer styles are chosen to work with seafood, not overpower it. Ideal for a casual dinner or stocking up ahead of celebrations throughout the season.

3:30pm | One last wander
As the afternoon light softens, there’s just one final stop to Boatshed Gifts for a keepsake that captures the spirit of the Market. Winding up the day, you’ll probably find yourself a little salty, sun-kissed and ready with your seafood selection on ice and in-hand ready to make your way home to prepare your own perfect summer feast.