Discover unforgettable culinary experiences from Sydney to Auckland, Melbourne to Queenstown
Australia and New Zealand offer some of the world's most diverse and exciting food scenes. From fresh seafood caught daily to innovative fusion cuisine, farm-to-table experiences, and world-class fine dining, there's something to satisfy every palate. Join us as we explore the best eating locations that should be on every food lover's bucket list.
Harbour city dining with iconic views and world-class cuisine
Three-hatted fine dining with spectacular Opera House views. Chef Peter Gilmore's innovative Australian cuisine showcases the best local produce.
The largest seafood market in the Southern Hemisphere. Fresh oysters, sashimi-grade tuna, and authentic fish and chips by the water.
Stunning ocean views meet Italian-inspired cuisine. Perfect for a long lunch watching surfers ride the waves at iconic Bondi Beach.
Australia's culinary capital with hidden laneways and coffee culture
Vibrant Thai-inspired eatery that revolutionized Melbourne dining. No bookings, bustling atmosphere, and incredibly fresh flavors.
Modern Australian fine dining in a converted metal works. Chef Andrew McConnell creates seasonal menus that celebrate local ingredients.
Historic market offering everything from artisan coffee to fresh produce, dim sum, and the famous American doughnuts.
Subtropical dining with riverside restaurants and tropical flavors
Waterfront dining with panoramic river and city views. Known for wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
Award-winning restaurant focusing on Queensland produce and native ingredients. Innovative tasting menus that tell a story of the region.
Boutique cafe famous for their breakfast burrito and creative brunch dishes. Always busy with locals for a reason!
City of sails with Pacific Rim cuisine and waterfront dining
Peter Gordon's flagship restaurant on level 53 of Sky Tower. Fusion cuisine with unbeatable 360-degree city views.
Al Brown's casual waterfront oyster bar and eatery. Fresh seafood, craft beer, and a lively atmosphere perfect for sharing plates.
Auckland's dining strip with dozens of restaurants, cafes, and bars. From Italian to Vietnamese, Spanish to Japanese.
Alpine dining with stunning lake and mountain views
Chef Josh Emett's modern dining room celebrating New Zealand produce. Think Central Otago lamb, Akaroa salmon, and locally foraged ingredients.
Legendary burger joint with queues down the street. Massive gourmet burgers made with fresh local ingredients, open until 5am!
Scenic 45-minute drive for hearty food in a stunning mountain setting. Famous for pies and coffee, perfect after hiking.
Wine & Dine: Don't miss the Hunter Valley (NSW), Barossa Valley (SA), and Marlborough (NZ) wine regions for cellar door experiences paired with regional cuisine.
Indigenous Flavors: Seek out restaurants featuring native ingredients like wattleseed, finger lime, kangaroo, and kΕ«mara (sweet potato).
Fresh Seafood: Both countries are surrounded by pristine waters. Sydney rock oysters, Tasmanian salmon, Bluff oysters, and green-lipped mussels are must-tries.
Popular restaurants fill up weeks in advance, especially fine dining establishments. Book online before your trip.
Many restaurants are BYO (Bring Your Own) alcohol with a small corkage fee - check before arriving.
Lunch: 12-2:30pm, Dinner: 6-9pm. Kitchens often close earlier than Europe or USA, so plan accordingly.
Tipping isn't mandatory in Australia or NZ, but 10% is appreciated for excellent service at fine dining.
Many restaurants serve dishes designed for sharing. Great way to try more variety and socialize!
Both countries have exceptional coffee. Try a flat white (originated in Aus/NZ) and visit local roasteries.
Southern Hemisphere's largest undercover fresh produce market. Over 80 traders selling everything from cheese to seafood since 1869.
Saturday waterfront market with over 300 stalls. Local produce, Tasmanian wines, handmade goods, and fresh Huon Valley berries.
Friday evening street food festival on Cuba Street. International cuisine from dumplings to tacos, plus craft beer and live music.
Australia and New Zealand take their coffee seriously - here are the iconic cafes
Explore hidden laneway cafes like Brother Baba Budan, Market Lane, and Patricia Coffee Brewers. Melbourne invented the flat white culture!
Award-winning roastery and cafe in an actual hangar. Watch planes take off while sipping some of NZ's best coffee.
Pioneering specialty coffee roaster with a flagship cafe. Exceptional pour-overs and brunch in Sydney's hippest neighborhood.
Want to experience these incredible eating locations with expert guides? Cooee Tours offers specialized food and wine tours across Australia and New Zealand:
Full-day tours through Hunter Valley, Barossa, Yarra Valley, or Marlborough with cellar door tastings and gourmet lunches.
Guided walking tours exploring Melbourne's laneways, Sydney's markets, or Auckland's waterfront dining scene.
Coastal tours featuring fresh oysters, fish and chips by the beach, and visits to local fish markets.
Visit working farms, meet local producers, and enjoy meals made with ingredients picked that morning.
Food Courts: Major cities have excellent food courts with Asian cuisines at great prices.
Bakeries: Grab a meat pie, sausage roll, or sandwich from local bakeries for under $10.
RSL Clubs: Returned Services League clubs offer cheap meals, especially in regional areas.
Pub Meals: Many pubs offer generous portions for $15-25, especially lunch specials.
BYO: Choose BYO restaurants and bring your own wine to save significantly.
Lunch vs Dinner: Same restaurants often have cheaper lunch menus with smaller portions.
What's In Season: Asparagus, strawberries, lamb, cherries
Events: Melbourne Food & Wine Festival, Tasting Australia
Experience: Spring oyster season begins, perfect weather for winery visits
What's In Season: Mangoes, stone fruits, berries, prawns
Events: Christmas seafood feasts, beachside BBQs
Experience: Peak season for fresh seafood and outdoor dining
What's In Season: Figs, pears, mushrooms, crayfish
Events: Pinot Noir festivals, truffle season in Tasmania
Experience: Harvest time in wine regions, cooler weather for hearty meals
What's In Season: Oranges, root vegetables, beef, oysters
Events: Winter wine festivals, truffle hunts
Experience: Comfort food season, perfect for slow-cooked dishes and warm pubs
Stunning beachfront Asian fusion with sunset views over Burleigh Beach. Every table has an ocean view!
Dining at the top of Mount Ngongotaha with 360-degree views. Access via gondola adds to the experience.
Restaurant at Museum of Old and New Art. Architectural marvel serving Tasmania's finest produce overlooking the Derwent River.
Join Cooee Tours for unforgettable culinary adventures. From fine dining to food markets, we'll show you the best places to eat down under.
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