A Food Lover’s Guide to Australia: Must-Try Restaurants Across the Country

Australia is home to some of the world’s best dining experiences, from luxurious fine dining establishments to casual spots that won’t break the bank. Whether you're indulging in a multi-course tasting menu or grabbing a quick but delicious meal, here’s where to eat in major Australian cities.

Published on 4 min read

Sydney: Where Global Tastes Meet

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Quay – Iconic fine dining with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
  • Tetsuya’s – Japanese French fusion tasting menu.
  • Icebergs Dining Room and Bar – Italian-inspired dishes with Bondi Beach views.
  • Firedoor – Wood-fire cooking with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Spice Alley – A vibrant laneway with delicious and budget-friendly Asian street food.
  • Chat Thai – A beloved Thai eatery serving authentic dishes at reasonable prices.
  • Mary’s – One of Sydney’s best burger joints, known for juicy patties and laid-back vibes.
  • Bourke Street Bakery – A must-visit for mouth-watering pastries and hearty sandwiches.

Brisbane: A Fusion of Flavour and Flair

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Gerard’s Bistro – Modern Middle Eastern-inspired menu in Fortitude Valley.
  • Stanley Restaurant – Cantonese fine dining at Howard Smith Wharves.
  • Otto Brisbane – Italian cuisine with stunning river views.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Eat Street Northshore – A lively night market with diverse street food options.
  • Miel Container – Gourmet burgers made fresh to order.
  • Honto – Modern Japanese dishes at surprisingly reasonable prices.
  • Vege Rama – Delicious plant-based meals that are affordable and full of flavour.

Gold Coast: Beachside Bites & Culinary Delights

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Rick Shores – Pan-Asian cuisine with beachfront views in Burleigh Heads.
  • Labart – Refined yet relaxed dining in Burleigh Heads.
  • Palette – Fine dining at HOTA Gallery.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Paddock Bakery – Cosy bakery known for its decadent pastries and fresh coffee.
  • Miami Marketta – An outdoor food market offering international street food.
  • The Henchman – A casual, trendy café with great burgers and brunch options.
  • Burleigh Pavillion – The ultimate destination by the ocean. Think beachfront views, fresh drinks and great food with the people you love.

Melbourne: A Culinary Capital

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Attica – Progressive and experimental Australian dining.
  • Vue de Monde – Elevated dining with sweeping city views.
  • Flower Drum – Iconic Cantonese fine dining.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Lune Croissanterie – The city’s best croissants and pastries.
  • Shanghai Street – A go-to for delicious and budget-friendly dumplings.
  • Soi 38 – Authentic Thai boat noodles for under $15.
  • Big Esso – Indigenous Australian Street food with unique flavours.

Perth: Where Coastal Charm Meets Culinary Excellence

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Wildflower – Contemporary dishes inspired by native Australian ingredients.
  • Lulu La Delizia – Handcrafted Italian pasta dishes.
  • Bib & Tucker – Beachfront dining with modern Australian cuisine and fresh seafood.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Toastface Grillah – Iconic grilled cheese sandwiches.
  • Bivouac – Middle Eastern share plates with great value.
  • Alfred’s Pizzeria – Pizza and cocktails in a fun, speakeasy-style setting.
  • Theo & Co – Affordable gourmet pizzas.

Hobart & Launceston: From Classic to Contemporary

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Fico (Hobart) – A blend of Italian and French influences.
  • Stillwater (Launceston) – Refined dining in a heritage building by the river.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Jackman & McRoss (Hobart) – Famous for its pies and baked goods.
  • Salamanca Market (Hobart) – Fresh produce, artisan foods, and street eats every Saturday.
  • Burger Junkie (Launceston) – Quality burgers at great prices.
  • Inside Café (Launceston) – Delicious and affordable breakfast options.

Darwin: Dining in the Top End

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Pee Wee’s at the Point – Modern Australian cuisine with waterfront views.
  • Char Restaurant – High-end steak and seafood.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Mindil Beach Sunset Markets – Local street food with a stunning view.
  • Hanuman – Flavour-packed Thai and Indian cuisine that won’t break the bank.
  • Rendezvous Café – A hidden gem serving authentic laksa and noodles.
  • Sweet Brew & Co – Great coffee and brunch at reasonable prices.

Adelaide: Dining with a Local Twist

Fine Dining & Must-Try Spots:

  • Orana – Award-winning fine dining celebrating Indigenous ingredients.
  • Africola – Vibrant North African-inspired dishes.

Budget-Friendly Bites:

  • Parwana Afghan Kitchen – Delicious Afghan cuisine at a great price.
  • Mandoo – Authentic and budget-friendly Korean dumplings.
  • Nordburger – One of Adelaide’s top-rated burger joints.
  • The Central Market – A foodie paradise with affordable eats from various vendors.