Thanks to our fresh flavours, vibrant restaurant scenes, and agricultural abundance, Australia is awash with world-class culinary destinations.
While our buzzing capital cities may grab the immediate attention of foodies across the country, our impressive gastronomic offering runs deep within our states and territories.
From award-winning vineyards to celebrated eateries and bustling farmer’s markets, Australia’s culinary hotspots are globally recognised for a reason.
Here’s a guide to the country’s must-visit destinations that deserve a top spot on every foodie’s bucket list.
Margaret River, WA
Voyagers Estate
“Margs”, as the locals call it, is brimming with unique culinary experiences. Three hours south of Perth, the Margaret River region is undoubtedly one of Western Australia’s top food and wine destinations. While its claim to fame is its world-class wines — particularly its full-bodied cabernets and crisp chardonnays — its farm-to-table dining scene is just as fame-worthy.
Nestled next to WA’s azure-hued coastline on the state’s south west coast, the region boasts over 200 vineyards and 100 cellar doors.
No trip to Margaret River is complete without a visit to the region’s founding winery, Vasse Felix; or the famed family-owned winery renowned for its organically farmed wines, Voyagers Estate; and don’t miss the Margaret River Farmers Market which kicks off at 8am every Saturday.
To really treat the palette, make a booking at the Miki’s Open Kitchen to experience an open kitchen and authentic Japanese dishes — where the theatre is just as impressive as the food — and at Rustico for a seasonal Mediterranean-style tapas menu.
Vasse Felix
Hunter Valley, NSW
Bistro Molines
As Australia’s oldest wine region, the Hunter Valley sure knows a thing or two about food and wine. The valley is famous for its semillon and shiraz wine varieties, picture-perfect landscapes, and its conveniently close proximity to Sydney.
From hatted restaurants to buzzy lunch spots, the Hunter Valley caters to every type of foodie.
If fine dining is your thing, enjoy a culinary masterclass at Muse Restaurant, and the unmatched innovation at EXP. Book ahead for Bistro Molines and Yellow Billy for a taste of true Hunter Valley institutions.
The new kid on the block, Harkham Bar and Restaurant, is serving up authentic Italian and classic cocktails with a backdrop featuring the picturesque Brokenback Range.
For family-friendly fun, nab a spot on the waterside deck at Lucky Duck to indulge in an Asian fusion feast while the local school of fish and resident turtles entertain the younger diners.
Muse Restaurant
Launceston, TAS
Mudbar Restaurant
When a city is named as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, you know it has officially asserted itself as one of the world’s greatest epicurean destinations. As one of only 36 world cities bestowed with the title, it’s proof that Launceston is a must-visit for all food and wine lovers.
As diverse and delightful as it is delicious, Launceston has something for every palette.
Thanks to its proximity to Tamar Valley — Tasmania’s largest wine region — you can expect exceptional wines to match equally exceptional fare.
For a true paddock-to-plate dining experience, Mudbar Restaurant is a must; to dine inside the city’s historic flour mill on the banks of the Kanamaluka/Tamar River, reserve a table at Stillwater; and to join the community spirit of “Launnie”, spend your Saturday morning exploring Harvest Launceston Community Farmers’ Market.
Harvest Market Launceston
Yarra Valley, VIC
Domaine Chandon
Victoria’s oldest wine region packs a serious punch when it comes to food and wine. Whether you’re day-tripping from Melbourne or staying a night or two in this picturesque place, prepare to be impressed by its pioneering culinary offering.
Best known for its cool-climate wines — think elegant chardonnays and pinot noirs — the Yarra Valley is full of delectable tastes, both plated and bottled.
Take a drive to visit some of the region’s most iconic wineries including Rochford Wine, De Bortoli, and Domaine Chandon.
For the foodies with a sweet tooth, make your way to Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery — go for the ice cream and stay to explore the property that is home to an orchard, wetlands, farm animals, and sweeping lawns.
Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery
Barossa Valley, South Australia
Home to some of the country’s most iconic wineries such as Penfolds and Jacob’s Creek, the Barossa Valley is of course best known for its wine offering, specifically its rich, bold reds, but the region offers much more than just viniculture.
Located just an hour from Adelaide’s CBD, the Barossa Valley has a food culture that would rival any foodie destination in the country. From fine dining favourites (hi, Hentley Farm), to casual pizza parlours (grab a slice at Ember Pizza), and authentic Italian (Casa Carboni is a must), the culinary offering is as tasty as it is diverse. And for the Maggie Beer fans, the Maggie Beer's Farm Shop & The Eatery is a foodie mecca with a location to match.
Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop
