NEW ZEALAND GOOD FOOD GUIDE

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia


In the vast landscape of Australian cuisine, the notion of destination dining has taken on a delightful new meaning. It’s not just about food; it’s an experience, an escape, a journey that tantalises the senses and ignites the spirit. Venture beyond the city limits and savour the innovative culinary creations boldly rooted in local produce while basking in breathtaking surroundings. Let's explore a few remarkable venues that promise unforgettable meals and immersive atmospheres — all worth the journey.

Earth Walker & Co - Coledale, NSW

Perched gracefully on Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Earth Walker & Co offers a unique coastal retreat where the enchantment of the ocean meets the rugged charm of the escarpment. This seaside restaurant doubles as a provisions store, inviting you to lose yourself in a setting that is both rustic and relaxed. The ambience breathes life into the concept of communal dining, providing a welcoming atmosphere ideal for long lunches or intimate gatherings. The interiors carry a narrative of nature, enhanced by an open-fire kitchen that imparts a distinct character to the dishes served.

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia

Specialising in a menu that celebrates seasonal produce, Earth Walker & Co plays by the rules of the land and sea. A must-try is their Farm Roll, which combines the heartiness of a milk bun with a free-range fried egg, smoky bacon, and luscious house aioli topped off with organic greens. Each bite reflects the essence of local ingredients prepared with passion and authenticity, making a true farm-to-table experience. Don't miss the enticing house-baked goods and invigorating fresh smoothies to complement your meal.

Discover the culinary wonders waiting for you at Earth Walker & Co.

Salt House - Cairns, QLD

Located on the picturesque Pier Point Road overlooking the stunning Cairns waterfront, Salt House is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination that captures the heart of Far North Queensland. The venue's opulent atmosphere is marked by sweeping views of the ocean and the majestic mountains that cradle it. With its blend of indoor and outdoor seating, it provides an exquisite backdrop for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a celebratory dinner against a canvas of spectacular sunsets.

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia

Emphasising a menu rich in local flavour, Salt House pays homage to the abundant produce and seafood that characterises the region. For an unforgettable taste, indulge in their hot & cold seafood deluxe board for two, a vibrant offering that showcases the fresh catch alongside Mediterranean lamb cutlets and a succulent 350g MB4+ Black Onyx grain-fed scotch fillet. Each dish reflects the culinary heritage of the area, complemented by the bold, smoky nuances brought from their premium wood-fired grill.

Experience the vibrant culinary delights at Salt House today.

Parkview Bakery - St Arnaud, VIC

Proudly nestled on Napier Street, Parkview Bakery is a community gem that resonates with warm nostalgia. This traditional Australian bakery and café serves a delightful array of freshly baked breads and classic pastries, all crafted with care and commitment to quality. The inviting interior creates a homely atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends over a coffee or treating yourself to a well-deserved afternoon sweet. It perfectly embodies the essence of a local establishment, with every visit feeling like a homecoming.

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia

Among the many delights, the BBQ Beef Brisket Pie stands out as a comforting staple. Filled with perfectly tender brisket infused with rich, smoky flavours, it’s a dish that encapsulates the heartiness of Australian comfort food. The warm embrace of this pie, paired with an artisan coffee, makes for a perfect afternoon indulgence that's sure to become a cherished memory for all who stop by.

Savour the warm delights awaiting you at Parkview Bakery.

La Boca Bar and Grill - Adelaide CBD, SA

Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavours of Argentina at La Boca Bar & Grill, located on North Terrace beneath the Stamford Plaza. This renowned establishment harmoniously blends a lively atmosphere with culinary artistry, adorned with colourful murals and featuring a traditional wood-fired asador that wows guests with its fiery flair. It’s a visual feast that prepares you for the exquisite gastronomic journey ahead, making every meal here an occasion to remember.

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia

The menu at La Boca is a celebration of premium Australian meats, showcasing a nose-to-tail approach that highlights the depth of flavour found in every cut. Be sure to try The Great Asador Plate for Two, a sumptuous sharing platter featuring pork belly, lamb and beef asado, along with succulent barramundi and grilled squid, complemented by zesty housemade chimichurri. This culinary masterpiece is more than a meal; it’s an experience that ignites the senses and sparks conversation.

Embark on a culinary adventure at La Boca Bar and Grill.

Bommie - Hamilton Island, QLD

Set against the splendid backdrop of Hamilton Island, Bommie stands as a pinnacle of fine dining led by Chef Ryan Locke. Eschewing traditional boundaries, Bommie’s Modern Australian menu elevates native ingredients and peak-season regional produce, creating a dining experience that is both innovative and deeply connected to its environment. The elegant architecture of Hamilton Island Yacht Club enhances the overall aesthetic, providing an extraordinary space for guests to indulge in culinary excellence.

Destination Dining: Venues Worth the Journey Across Australia

The tasting menu at Bommie beckons with dishes like cured venison seasoned with wattle seed, smoked beetroot and black garlic puree, intertwined with flavours that celebrate the land. Each element is thoughtfully composed, crafting a narrative that speaks to the rich cultural tapestry of this unique destination. Dining at Bommie is not simply about food; it's a discovery of flavours inspired by a breathtaking location.

Discover the exquisite tastes crafted at Bommie.

As the culinary landscape of Australia flourishes, these remarkable venues illustrate that destination dining is an adventure waiting to be undertaken. The journey is as important as the meal itself, inviting you to step outside your routine and explore the myriad flavours, stories and atmospheres that make each destination uniquely captivating. Gather your friends or family and embark on a culinary journey that promises more than just a meal — it promises a memory to treasure.

Featured Locations

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Bommie

Bommie restaurant on picturesque Hamilton Island is led by award-winning Executive Chef Ryan Locke, whose Modern Australian menu champions native ingredients, peak season regional produce and a tru...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Salt House

Perched on Pier Point Road on the Cairns waterfront, Salt House is the city's most iconic dining, bar and entertainment destination — a stunning multi-faceted venue where panoramic views of the oce...

Cafe    $$$$$

Parkview Bakery - St Arnaud

A beloved cornerstone of the St Arnaud community, Parkview Bakery on Napier Street is a warm and welcoming traditional Australian bakery and café where freshly baked breads, classic pastries and ho...

Cafe    $$$$$

Earth Walker & Co

Earth Walker & Co on Lawrence Hargrave Drive in Coledale is a seaside restaurant and provisions store set between the ocean and the escarpment, offering a grounded escape shaped by fire, season and...

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