From tropical flavors to locally sourced seafood and Indigenous-inspired dishes, Cairns is a haven for food lovers. The region’s proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and its lush rainforests ensures that the cuisine here is fresh, vibrant, and often unique. During my trip to Cairns, I made it a mission to explore as many culinary gems as possible. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots and must-try dishes that reflect the true essence of this tropical paradise.
1. Prawn Star: The Ultimate Seafood Experience
One of the most memorable dining experiences I had was at Prawn Star, a restaurant situated on actual fishing boats docked at the Cairns Marlin Marina. The atmosphere was casual yet lively, with a fantastic view of the water, which only added to the experience. Fresh seafood is the highlight here, and I went straight for the seafood platter, which featured a generous selection of prawns, oysters, mud crab, and bugs (also known as slipper lobster).
Each bite was bursting with the natural flavors of the sea, and the freshness was undeniable. It was truly one of the most authentic ways to enjoy Cairns’ renowned seafood. I highly recommend trying the locally caught tiger prawns if you’re looking for a real treat. There’s something about enjoying seafood right from the boat that made the meal feel special and connected to Cairns’ coastal culture.
2. Ochre Restaurant: Exploring Indigenous-Inspired Cuisine
If you’re looking to taste the unique flavors of Australia, Ochre Restaurant is the place to be. This restaurant is known for its innovative take on Indigenous cuisine, incorporating native Australian ingredients into its dishes. The setting was modern and stylish, yet the menu was deeply rooted in tradition and regional ingredients.
I started with the wattle seed damper bread served with macadamia oil, which was a delightful way to begin. For the main course, I opted for the kangaroo sirloin, which was cooked to perfection and had a subtle, earthy flavor that paired well with native spices. The dish was served with a bush tomato chutney that added a hint of sweetness.
Ochre also serves crocodile, emu, and bush spices that give you a truly unique dining experience. The highlight, however, was the lemon myrtle cheesecake for dessert, a creamy treat with a hint of citrus that felt like a true celebration of native Australian flavors. If you want to dive into local ingredients and support Indigenous-inspired cuisine, Ochre is a must-visit.
3. Salt House: Tropical Flavors with a View
Salt House is located right on the marina, offering a stunning view of the water and a chic, open-air dining space that lets the tropical breeze roll in. The restaurant is all about modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and sustainable seafood. I found myself drawn to the relaxed vibe and incredible menu, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner.
One standout dish was the reef fish with tropical salsa, featuring a locally caught fish with a vibrant salsa made from mango, avocado, and lime. The flavors were fresh and light, and the tropical fruits added a refreshing twist. The Salt House seafood platter is another popular choice, brimming with oysters, prawns, and crab that tasted as if it had been caught just moments ago.
Salt House also has a fantastic cocktail menu, and I couldn’t resist trying their signature mango mojito. The combination of fresh mango with mint and rum was tropical perfection in a glass, making it the perfect accompaniment to the warm Cairns weather.
4. Caffiend: A Hip Spot for Breakfast and Coffee Lovers
For breakfast lovers, Caffiend was my go-to spot in Cairns. Tucked away in a trendy laneway, this café has an artsy, relaxed vibe and serves some of the best coffee I had in the city. As someone who can’t start the day without a good coffee, I was thrilled to find a place that took their brew seriously.
I ordered the avocado toast with macadamia dukkah, which was topped with poached eggs, locally sourced greens, and a sprinkle of Australian dukkah made from macadamia nuts. It was deliciously fresh and satisfying, with a nutty crunch that elevated the dish. Their house-made cold brew was a refreshing choice, especially on a warm Cairns morning.
Caffiend’s menu also features a range of vegan and vegetarian options, making it a great stop for all dietary preferences. The vibe here is laid-back yet lively, with plenty of locals and travelers stopping in, which made me feel like I was part of Cairns’ vibrant café culture.
5. The Chambers: Modern Australian in a Heritage Setting
Housed in a beautifully restored building that dates back to the early 1900s, The Chambers is one of the most atmospheric dining spots in Cairns. The building’s history adds charm to the experience, and the menu focuses on modern Australian cuisine with a creative twist.
I went for brunch and tried the truffle scrambled eggs with toasted sourdough, which was rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. The Chambers also uses a lot of local produce, and it’s evident in the freshness of the dishes. Their prawn linguine with lemon and capers is another standout, offering a delicate balance of flavors that’s ideal for seafood lovers.
The Chambers also has a lovely courtyard where you can dine alfresco. The mix of heritage and contemporary design in the setting, paired with their innovative menu, made my visit here feel like a true Cairns experience.
6. Bang & Grind: The Best Brunch Spot in Town
If there’s one place I could go back to every morning, it would be Bang & Grind. This café has a reputation for serving top-notch brunch and, of course, amazing coffee. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, making it a favorite among locals.
Their breakfast burrito was absolutely packed with flavor, filled with eggs, chorizo, avocado, and a dash of hot sauce. They also offer a variety of health-conscious options like acai bowls and smoothies, which were perfect for a lighter meal.
The café’s coffee is exceptional, and I opted for their signature iced latte every time I visited. The baristas clearly know their craft, and it’s the perfect spot for a casual, hearty breakfast before a day of exploring.
7. Rusty’s Markets: Local Flavors and Tropical Fruits
Rusty’s Markets are a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the fresh, tropical flavors of Cairns. Held every weekend, these bustling markets offer a range of local produce, exotic fruits, and street food stalls that showcase the region’s diversity.
I loved trying the different fruits available here, like rambutan, mangosteen, and jackfruit, which are grown locally and absolutely bursting with flavor. One of the vendors introduced me to Davidson’s plum, a native Australian fruit that’s tart and perfect for jams or smoothies.
Rusty’s is also a great place to try some unique street foods. I grabbed a fresh coconut to drink straight from the shell and couldn’t resist trying a plate of papaya salad. For foodies and adventurous eaters, Rusty’s Markets is an unmissable stop where you can savor the flavors of tropical North Queensland.
8. Tamarind Restaurant: Fine Dining with an Asian Influence
For a fine dining experience, Tamarind Restaurant was unforgettable. Located within the Reef Hotel Casino, Tamarind combines Asian flavors with Australian ingredients to create dishes that are both elegant and delicious.
I started with the prawn dumplings with chili and lime, which were beautifully presented and full of fresh flavors. For my main course, I went with the duck breast served with a hoisin glaze and Asian greens. The dish was rich and flavorful, with the duck cooked to perfection.
The restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere, making it ideal for a special night out. Their dessert menu also impressed me; I tried the coconut panna cotta with mango sorbet, which was light and refreshing, the perfect end to an exquisite meal.
9. Nu Nu Restaurant: Beachside Dining in Palm Cove
Located in nearby Palm Cove, Nu Nu Restaurant offers beachside dining with stunning ocean views. Known for its use of local ingredients and tropical flavors, Nu Nu’s menu captures the essence of the region.
I ordered the reef fish with green papaya salad, which was perfectly cooked and had a refreshing tang from the salad. Another highlight was the coconut prawns, which were crispy and paired with a zesty dipping sauce.
With the waves as my backdrop and a tropical breeze, dining at Nu Nu felt like a quintessential Queensland experience. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local produce shines through in every dish, making it well worth the short trip from Cairns.
Cairns is not only a gateway to breathtaking natural wonders but also a vibrant culinary destination. From waterfront seafood shacks to fine dining establishments, the city’s dining scene reflects the diversity and beauty of tropical North Queensland. My journey through Cairns’ restaurants gave me a deeper appreciation for the region’s flavors, culture, and warm hospitality.
