The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland?

Experience the vibrant food and drink scene in Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, where you can indulge in a variety of cuisines that showcase the region’s unique flavors. From cocktails on a verandah with stunning ocean views to quirky seafood restaurants spread across trawlers, these dining spots are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover the top places to eat and drink in this tropical paradise.

The iconic Vivo is the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail on the verandah while taking in the breathtaking views of the Coral Sea. This longstanding restaurant in Palm Cove offers a menu inspired by Mediterranean cuisine with an Asian twist.

For a taste of native Australian ingredients, head to Ochre. This restaurant, led by award-winning chef Craig Squire, features dishes like salt and pepper prawn, crocodile, and grilled kangaroo. Enjoy the scenic views of Trinity Inlet from the covered terrace.

Rocco, located on the rooftop of Crystalbrook Riley, offers Middle Eastern share plates and stunning panoramic views of Cairns and the Coral Sea. Indulge in mezze plates and sip on tropical or Moroccan-inspired cocktails while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Prawn Star, a unique dining experience spread across restored fishing trawlers at Marlin Marina, specializes in cold seafood platters. Feast on freshly caught salmon sashimi, prawns, crayfish, and oysters while surrounded by the novelty decor of buoys and colored lights.

The Chambers Cairns is a buzzing cafe and cocktail bar housed in a heritage building. Enjoy a boozy brunch in a charming setting with exposed brick walls and steel beams. Try their coconut marinated lamb benedict and spicy bloody Mary.

Nautilus, the first restaurant in Port Douglas, offers an open-air dining experience in a lush garden oasis. Founded in 1954, this restaurant has welcomed famous diners such as David Bowie and Bill Clinton. Indulge in their degustation menu featuring dishes like green ant cured kingfish and grilled Moreton Bay bugs.

Nu Nu is widely recognized as one of the best restaurants in the region. Located in Palm Cove, this atmospheric eatery offers top-notch cuisine created by executive chef Nick Holloway. Try their salted cucumbers, yellow bean eggplant, and kimchi butter poached reef fish.

Salt House is the ultimate hedonist heaven on the waterfront. This bar and restaurant on Marina Point features wood-fired meats and a pizzeria. Relax in their garden setting with live music, lanterns, and ponds.

Oak & Vine, situated on the rooftop of Oaks Cairns Hotel, offers a blend of Peruvian dishes and Japanese techniques. Enjoy lagoon views while savoring dishes like gin-cured barramundi and miso roasted eggplant. Their casual coastal feel and excellent breakfast options make it a popular choice.

Seabean Tapas Bar is a quirky eatery adorned with Spanish dolls and ’60s-style Spanish art. This fun dining spot in Port Douglas offers small plates and a social vibe. Don’t miss their famous crema catalana dessert served in a half coconut shell.

The Backyard, nestled in the Shangri-La hotel, offers casual waterfront dining with a view of Marlin Marina. Their eclectic menu features a range of dishes, including burgers, steaks, and bahn mi. Enjoy the relaxed garden atmosphere, which includes a bar housed in a shipping container.

Dundee’s Restaurant at Cairns Aquarium provides a unique dining experience with a nautical theme. Situated on the corner of the Cairns Aquarium, this restaurant offers a seafood feast with dishes like crocodile spring rolls and coral trout. Immerse yourself in the underwater world while enjoying your meal.

• Vivo: Relax with top-notch cocktails on the verandah of this Cairns stalwart.
• Ochre: Try bush food inspired dishes while enjoying views of Trinity Inlet.
• Rocco: Delight in Middle Eastern share plates at the city’s highest rooftop bar.
• Prawn Star: Hop aboard for the freshest seafood in town on these restored fishing trawlers.
• The Chambers Cairns: Indulge in a boozy brunch in a heritage setting.
• Nautilus: Experience open-air dining among lush gardens in Port Douglas.
• Nu Nu: Dine at one of the region’s best restaurants with an atmospheric setting.
• Salt House: Enjoy wood-fired meats and tropical vibes on the waterfront.
• Oak & Vine: Savor Peruvian dishes with Japanese techniques at this rooftop restaurant.
• Seabean Tapas Bar: Try small plates and savor the crema catalana dessert in Port Douglas.
• The Backyard: Experience casual waterfront dining overlooking Marlin Marina.
• Dundee’s Restaurant at Cairns Aquarium: Taste the flavors of the Great Barrier Reef at this nautically themed restaurant.

Cairns and Tropical North Queensland are a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste. From waterfront views to open-air rainforest settings, these restaurants offer a memorable culinary experience. Whether you’re craving seafood, international cuisine, or unique fusion dishes, you’ll find it all in this tropical haven.