Many businesses from the north to the south of the Illawarra boast al fresco settings, while others have shown interest to take advantage of new policies and funding available.

Bulli Beach Cafe has extended their outdoor footprint on Waniora Point with tables spread far and wide, while the Illawarra Hotel has set up an al fresco dining precinct on their footpath along Market Street.

"There's a lot of interest from our community and local businesses to make the most of the City of Wollongong's growing foodie culture," a spokeswoman for Wollongong City Council said.

"Over the last few months, council has seen an increase in the number of enquiries and outdoor dining applications.

"We've also increased the number of approvals for outdoor dining which is a positive outcome for our community."

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So far there has been double the amount of al fresco approvals in the Wollongong LGA in 2021 than in the previous year.

Council have tried to streamline their approval processes and waived outdoor dining fees until June 2022, though applicants are required to pay a bond.

"The opportunity to eat or drink outdoors is being sought by many as a more COVID-safe way to socialise, and catch up with family and friends as we reopen," the spokeswoman said.

"By supporting more businesses to offer this opportunity, we're also facilitating options for our community as we re-engage with the new 'normal'."

In October, the NSW Government announced a range of measures to help restart the hospitality sector with a six-month exemption for venues to expand onto private land, easing of rules around dining on footpaths and public spaces, grants made available to help upgrade al fresco areas, plus money for councils to improve their high streets and surrounding areas.

Prior to this announcement, Kiama Council had already revised their Footpath Dining Policy to include a more streamlined approval process, with 40 operators in the area already treating customers with outdoor dining.

They have also waived all existing footpath dining fees until January 11, 2022.

Shellharbour City Council have also made their approval processes easier and have allowed bars and clubs to repurpose car parks and bowling greens to serve food and beverages until April 18, 2022.

CEO Carey McIntyre said the council was now able to set up pop-up outdoor venues to serve food and drinks on public land, while also able to allow clubs to temporarily repurpose their outdoor spaces "such as car parks, bowling greens to serve food and drinks".

Please note, the list of al fresco areas is NOT exhaustive, but an example of many of the great outdoor spaces. If you want one added to the story, please email: desiree.savage@illawarramercury.com.au

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