There’s no doubt that this country is home to a crackin' selection of eateries. Whether it's authentic sushi, Italian hotspots that would make any nonna proud, and of course, beautiful Aussie plates made with locally sourced produce, there's plenty for your eating pleasure, So, where to start? Check out our list for the best restaurants in Australia.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Fronting a venue space dating back to the 1870s, it's no wonder why the Hardimans Hotel is one of the top restaurants in Australia's Melbourne. Sink your teeth into its best-loved lamb koftas with wood-fired flatbread, tzatziki and pistachio dukkah, with a pint of the good stuff in hand.
Found inside Casino Canberra, Natural Nine is a great choice for authentic Chinese grub. Touting a menu designed by head chef Jason Kok, hungry locals can expect dishes including Hokkien seafood noodle soup and charred sesame chicken, alongside delicious drinks.
Make your way over to Perth's Print Hall, where you'll find an impressive lineup of restaurants and bars slinging out scrumptious food and drinks in a seriously stylish space. Think cocktails, beers, pizzas and so much more.
When it comes to our list of restaurants in Australia, Seabreeze Beach Hotel offers a mouthwatering selection of food. Whether you're in the mood for a smoked salmon poke bowl, cauliflower risotto or rump steak, this venue has a delicious variety of plates.
Sydney's Bondi Icebergs Club is one of our country's most beautiful restaurants, thanks to a stunning setting with sea views for days. Expect to sip cocktails and munch through Italian-inspired plates at this beach destination.
As an Irish pub, The Last Jar in Melbourne exudes the charm and warmth of its inspiration from across the pond. While you tuck into classic grub with Aussie twists, be sure to wash it all down with one of its 16 on-tap beers. To top it off? There's also a rotating stream of live musicians.
Nestled in a revamped heritage-listed building on Nicholson Street, The Tilbury Hotel is one of the best restaurants in Sydney. This bright and airy eatery serves tasty, locally sourced dishes. Our favourites? The massaman spiced lamb shank and the beetroot-cured trout. Yum.
Beef & Barley is a Kingston hangout perfect for catch-ups with pals or for those more special occasions. Take a seat in its vibrant dining space or on its terrace to enjoy a range of steaks, sharing plates and oh-so-moreish desserts. Need a drink? Enjoy a glass (or two) of sangria.
Banging brekkies? Check. Hearty lunches? Double check. The North Spoon found just above Sydney's CBD in McMahons Point, has become a staple for many locals, thanks to its delicious food, sun-inviting windows and leafy decor. It also offers private hire for those special occasions.
There's no need to search for the best restaurants in Perth, as The Lucky Shag is a boozer that's bound to hit the spot. Overlooking the stunning Swan River, this first-class pub is home to a plethora of indoor and water-facing tables, alongside a tasty selection of seafood or cocktails.
Home to shuffleboard and live DJ sets on the weekend, The Breakwater is really a cultural hotspot in the heart of Perth. If you head upstairs, you'll be met with the Ishka Restaurant which serves gourmet pizzas, sharing plates and fish tacos. We're salivating.
Located on Market Street, Medusa Greek Taverna is a top Mediterranean restaurant with low-key vibes. Choose from a range of vegetarian-friendly dishes as well as carnivore favourites, complemented by a few glasses of bubbly. Fancy alfresco antics? Head to the outdoor terrace.
Smith St Bistrot is a French restaurant in Melbourne worth checking out. Whether you're looking to book one of its sultry private dining rooms or enjoy a romantic date night in its dimly-lit ground floor space, it's on track to satisfy. Fancy something sweet? Choose the crème caramel.
When it comes down to the best restaurants in South Yarra, Omnia Bistro & Bar is a top choice. With a menu dedicated to European plates using Australian produce, this venue has a variety of flavour-packed dishes to choose from. Our favourite? The smoked ocean trout cigar.
A top pick when it comes to the best Japanese restaurant in Melbourne CBD, Shoya really nails traditional food with a modern flare. Take a seat to catch all the action from its open kitchen, whether its sushi making or steak grilling, hungry visitors can expect theatricality with their food.
Ravenous for a ribeye? Yup. Then you're going to want to visit Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse in Sydney CBD. Once a candle factory, this gorgeous venue is decorated with cathedral ceilings and unique stone walls, making it the perfect backdrop for those cosy nights with loved ones.
If you ask around for Sydney restaurants, the name NOMAD will be on everyone's lips. This sleek hangout is known about town for its mouthwatering menu, which takes inspiration from the Middle East, Spain and Morocco. As for drinks? Check out its lip-smacking cocktail list.
Fico demonstrates the best of Australia with its irresistible eight-course tasting menus. While only open on weekends, this one's not to be missed, as this Hobart eatery combines influences from Europe with local Aussie produce for a truly delicious experience. Need we say more?
If it's a showstopper you're after, Sol should be next on your list. Not only does this Adelaide rooftop haunt feature stunning views from its sky-high terrace, but also whips up multi-course tasting experiences that showcase some of the very best grub the country has to offer.
Flaunting views of Adelaide's iconic gardens, Restaurant Botanic is perfect for celebratory meals and date nights alike. This stunning spot minimises food wastage with herbs or vegetables harvested from the 51-hectare area, making for quirky nature-inspired plates.
If you're searching for the best restaurants in Perth, Lulu La Delizia is a firm choice. Home to a chic indoor dining space and an outdoor terrace for alfresco vibes, this Rokeby road eatery won't disappoint. So, what's on the menu? Authentic Italian fare and a carefully curated wine list.
Inspired by the delicious flavours of China, Happy Boy is on our radar as one of the top Brisbane restaurants. With an oozingly cool vibe, thanks to its industrial-style interiors, this is a relaxing spot to chow down on classic Asian fare.
Often referred to as one of the best restaurants in Melbourne, Lume offers foodies a fine dining experience. Enjoy is multi-course tasting menu created using foraged ingredients, alongside a flavourful exploration of different ecosystems. Sounds fancy, right?
An absolute stunner on the edge of a natural oasis, Forest is a top choice for Byron Bay restaurants. While relaxing in its leafy garden, don't forget to tuck into plates made from sustainable ingredients. Thirsty? Enjoy a Fairy Dust Martini with goji berry-infused vodka.
Boasting 'Gram-worthy interiors and a tasty menu to match, Donna Chang could be considered one of the best restaurants in the world. This Brisbane hangout is turning heads for its plush pink booths, retro vibes and authentic Chinese cuisine with hints of Sichuan flavours.
On the hunt for the best sushi in Sydney? Then omakase-style restaurant Haco is a fabulous choice. While the chefs cook with a focus on tempura, foodies are likely to indulge in anything from high-grade sashimi that melts in the mouth to succulent plates of duck.
