Cairns, a popular tourist destination in tropical North Queensland, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse dining scene. When visiting this beautiful city, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to eat. With so many restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the best places to eat in Cairns, ensuring you have a culinary experience that’s just as amazing as the city itself.
Get ultimate traveler plannerOverview of Cairns’ Dining Scene
Cairns is a melting pot of international cuisines, with a strong focus on fresh seafood, locally-sourced produce, and innovative Australian flavors. From waterfront restaurants with breathtaking views to hidden gems in the city’s streets, Cairns has something to offer every palate and budget. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a quick bite, or a family-friendly meal, this guide will take you on a culinary journey through the best eateries in Cairns.
What to Expect in This Guide
In the following sections, we’ll take you on a tour of the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries in Cairns, covering a range of cuisines and dining experiences. From fine dining to casual eats, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Cairns, including:
- Waterfront restaurants with stunning views
- Hidden gems and local favorites
- Family-friendly eateries and kid-approved menus
- Romantic dinner spots for couples
- International cuisines, from Asian to Italian and beyond
So, get ready to indulge in the flavors of Cairns and discover the best places to eat in this tropical paradise!
Where to Eat in Cairns: A Foodie’s Paradise
Cairns, a popular tourist destination in tropical North Queensland, is not only known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere but also for its diverse and thriving food scene. From fresh seafood to modern Australian cuisine, Cairns offers a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey to explore the best places to eat in Cairns.
Breakfast Spots
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at one of these popular cafes in Cairns:
- The Breakfast Club: Known for its creative breakfast dishes and trendy atmosphere, The Breakfast Club is a must-visit for breakfast enthusiasts.
- Cairns Night Markets Food Court: This bustling food court offers a variety of breakfast options, including Asian-style dishes and fresh fruit smoothies.
- The Cove Restaurant and Bar: Located in the heart of Cairns, The Cove serves up delicious breakfast dishes with a focus on local ingredients and stunning ocean views.
Seafood Lovers
Cairns is renowned for its fresh seafood, and these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings: (See Also: Where To Eat In Port Isaac)
- The Fish Factory: This seafood institution has been serving up fresh, locally caught seafood for over 20 years. Try their famous fish and chips or seafood platter.
- The Waterbar and Grill: Located on the waterfront, The Waterbar and Grill offers an extensive seafood menu, including oysters, prawns, and lobster.
- The Boat House Restaurant: This stylish restaurant serves up modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
Modern Australian Cuisine
Experience the best of modern Australian cuisine at these top-rated restaurants:
- Tamarind Restaurant: This award-winning restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional Australian cuisine, using fresh local ingredients and innovative techniques.
- The Raw Prawn: This popular restaurant serves up creative, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on seasonal ingredients and stunning presentation.
- The Longhouse: Located in the heart of Cairns, The Longhouse offers a modern take on Australian classics, including burgers, steaks, and pasta dishes.
International Cuisine
Cairns is a melting pot of international cuisines, and these restaurants are sure to tantalize your taste buds:
- Pho 24: This popular Vietnamese restaurant serves up delicious and authentic pho, banh mi, and other Vietnamese dishes.
- Siam Square: This family-owned Thai restaurant offers a wide range of traditional Thai dishes, including curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes.
- La Fettuccine: This cozy Italian restaurant serves up homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and other Italian classics.
Food Markets and Street Food
Experience the vibrant food culture of Cairns at these popular markets and street food stalls:
- Rustys Markets: This bustling marketplace offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as international food stalls and cafes.
- Cairns Night Markets: This popular night market offers a variety of street food stalls, including Asian-style dishes, seafood, and desserts.
- The Pier Marketplace: Located on the waterfront, this marketplace offers a range of food stalls, including seafood, burgers, and ice cream.
Bars and Pubs
Unwind with a cold drink at one of these popular bars and pubs in Cairns:
- The Cairns RSL Club: This popular club offers a range of bars, including a sports bar, gaming lounge, and outdoor beer garden.
- The Hotel Cairns: This historic hotel has a range of bars, including a rooftop bar with stunning ocean views and a sports bar with live music.
- The Woolshed: This popular pub offers a range of beers, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Recap and Summary
In conclusion, Cairns is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From fresh seafood to modern Australian cuisine, international flavors, and vibrant food markets, Cairns has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, Cairns has got you covered. (See Also: Where To Eat In Angeles)
Remember to try some of the local specialties, such as fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and indigenous bush foods. And don’t forget to explore the city’s vibrant food markets and street food stalls, which offer a unique and authentic culinary experience.
So, come and indulge in the flavors of Cairns – your taste buds will thank you!