A list of the best restaurants to try in Australia
Australia is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse culture, but it’s also a treasure trove for food lovers. From vibrant street food to fine dining, the country’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population. For DIY travellers keen on exploring Australia’s culinary delights at their own pace, a self-drive food tour is the perfect way to savour the country’s best flavours. By hitting the road, you can sample regional delicacies, discover hidden gems, and dine at the most beloved restaurants nationwide. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, Low-Cost Self-Drive is your ideal partner for a reliable self drive car rental, ensuring that your foodie road trip goes off without a hitch.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the must-visit restaurants across Australia, catering to all price ranges and offering dishes that are adored by locals, food critics, and tourists alike. So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable food tour Australia-style!
1. Attica - Melbourne
No food tour in Australia would be complete without a visit to one of the country’s most celebrated restaurants—Attica. Located in Melbourne, this high-end restaurant is popular among food critics and has garnered international acclaim. Chef Ben Shewry crafts a unique and innovative menu that celebrates Australian native ingredients in a way that no other restaurant does.
Attica’s tasting menu takes diners on a journey through the flavours of Australia, with dishes like emu liver parfait and crocodile ribs. It’s a splurge, but it’s an experience not to be missed for serious foodies. If you’re self-driving through Victoria, it’s well worth a detour for a memorable fine dining experience.
Tip: Book well in advance—Attica is a hot ticket in town!
2. The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery - Tasmania
For those heading south to Tasmania, The Agrarian Kitchen Eatery is a must-visit on your food tour Australia itinerary. Located in a former mental asylum in New Norfolk, about a 30-minute drive from Hobart, this farm-to-table restaurant serves dishes made with ingredients sourced directly from their own farm and other local producers.
The menu changes frequently based on what’s in season, but expect to find beautifully prepared dishes like wood-fired sourdough, garden-fresh salads, and slow-cooked meats. It’s rustic, delicious, and the perfect spot for foodies who appreciate a farm-to-plate philosophy.
3. Mary’s - Sydney
Craving a burger that locals rave about? Look no further than Mary’s in Sydney. This laid-back, rock-and-roll-inspired joint is famous for serving up some of the best burgers in the city. It’s an affordable and casual stop that’s perfect for a quick bite while you’re exploring Sydney’s urban landscape.
Locals love Mary’s for their indulgent cheeseburgers and fried chicken, which are washed down with a local craft beer or two. If you’re doing a self-drive food tour of Australia through New South Wales, Mary’s is the perfect spot to refuel with comfort food before hitting the road again.
4. Quay - Sydney
On the other end of the dining spectrum is Quay, an iconic Sydney restaurant offering world-class dining with stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Helmed by Peter Gilmore, Quay consistently ranks among the best restaurants in the world. The tasting menu here celebrates contemporary Australian cuisine with dishes that blend art, flavour, and texture.
If you’re planning to indulge in a special meal while touring Sydney, Quay is an unforgettable experience, making it an essential stop on your food tour Australia adventure.
5. Chin Chin - Melbourne
A favourite among locals and tourists alike, Chin Chin brings the bold flavours of Southeast Asia to the heart of Melbourne. This bustling, trendy restaurant offers a lively atmosphere and an array of shareable dishes, such as caramelised pork belly, spicy papaya salad, and crispy barramundi.
The queue can be long, but it’s worth the wait. Chin Chin is the perfect spot to sample exotic and vibrant flavours without breaking the bank. Pair it with a road trip through Victoria, and you’ve got a perfect day of sightseeing and dining.
6. Gingerboy - Melbourne
For something a little different, head to Gingerboy, one of Melbourne’s best-known restaurants. It offers a modern take on Asian street food. It’s a lively, colourful spot with dishes bursting with flavour, perfect for those who love spice and zing in their food.
From steamed dumplings to crispy fried quail, Gingerboy’s menu is packed with creative dishes that are ideal for sharing, making it a fun stop for groups. It is a fantastic option for those who want to experience high-quality, flavour-packed food at a mid-range price point.
7. Apoteca - Adelaide
A stop in Adelaide during your self-drive food tour of Australia wouldn’t be complete without a meal at Apoteca. This charming restaurant blends old-world charm with modern culinary finesse. Located in the city’s West End, Apoteca serves up a menu that’s both innovative and comforting, offering dishes like slow-braised lamb and their famous gnocchi.
The wine list is also impressive, focusing on local South Australian wines that perfectly complement the menu. Apoteca is a fantastic option for an elegant yet relaxed meal.
8. Yarri - Western Australia
If you’re touring the country’s western side, stop by Yarri in Dunsborough, near the famous Margaret River wine region. This restaurant celebrates the flavours of Western Australia, focusing on sustainably sourced produce and native ingredients.
With dishes like marron (freshwater crayfish) and kangaroo, Yarri’s menu offers a unique insight into Australia’s culinary heritage. The relaxed atmosphere and stunning location make it a perfect pit stop on your self-drive food tour of Australia.
Plan Your Foodie Road Trip with Low-Cost Self-Drive
A self-drive food tour in Australia offers the freedom to explore the country’s diverse culinary scene at your own pace with a self drive car hire. Whether you’re road-tripping with family, friends, or fellow foodies, Low-Cost Self-Drive is Australia’s top choice for reliable self-drive vehicle rentals. With spacious, comfortable vehicles suitable for groups of all sizes, you can focus on enjoying the delicious journey without worrying about transport logistics.
From the fine dining restaurants of Melbourne to the casual eateries of Sydney and the farm-to-table experiences in Tasmania, Australia’s food scene is as vast and varied as the country itself.
So pack your bags (and your appetite), rent a reliable vehicle from Low-Cost Self-Drive, and embark on a culinary adventure like no other!