Welcome to the Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.
Australia wasn’t on my radar as a foodie hotspot – barbecue and a few “exotic” meats were all I had in mind. But as part of my ongoing quest to uncover the world’s best dining experiences, I knew I had to see what the Land Down Under had to offer.
With just one day in each city, I relied on local tips to uncover the standout spots. My criteria were simple – unforgettable flavors, amazing vibes, and top-notch service.
From melt-in-your-mouth sushi to bold Middle Eastern plates, these restaurants exceeded every expectation!
So, let’s give it a go.
Restaurants I Tried in Australia
- Saint Peter (Sydney) – The best restaurant I tried in Australia
- AALIA (Sydney) – Changed how I saw Middle Eastern food
- Bar Rochford (Canberra) – Amazing wine list
- Kita (Canberra) – Incredible late-night fishcakes
- Nomad (Melbourne) – Bold wood-fired Aussie cuisine
- Parwana Afgan Kitchen (Adelaide) – Soulful Afghanistan cooking
- The Little Rickshaw (Adelaide) – A true hidden gem
- James Parker Sushi and Sake (Perth) – Best sushi I tried
- Madalena’s (Perth) – Authentic Aussie experience
Sydney
Sydney has it all – sparkling harbor views, golden beaches, and a food scene that’s a dream for any foodie.
From fresh seafood straight off the boat to surprising twists on classic Arabic dishes, this city knows how to keep your taste buds happy.
Saint Peter
Tucked away in Sydney’s Paddington neighborhood, this intimate eatery champions sustainable, line-caught fish from Australia’s pristine waters. Every dish feels like a love letter to the ocean.
For my main, I opted for the wood-grilled line-caught John Dory, sourced from Eden NSW. Perfectly cooked, the fish had a delicate flakiness that paired beautifully with the truffled rice and leeks with their luscious smoked butter sauce. Every bite was a balance of earthy, creamy, and oceanic flavors – a dish so thoughtful it could have been art.
Dessert was a playful surprise: the BBQ banana Vacherin. Layers of coconut ice cream, burnt vanilla, and caramelized banana created a smokey and sweet tropical symphony.
AALIA
AALIA is a masterclass when it comes to redefining Middle Eastern flavors through bold, modern twists. Nestled in Sydney’s bustling central business district (CBD), this sleek spot caught my attention with its adventurous menu and artful plating.
I began with the Sydney rock oysters, each one a perfect burst of ocean freshness. The black lime dressing added just the right touch of citrusy brightness, making every bite both refreshing and unforgettable.
For my main, the dry-aged duck fesenjan. A show-stopper slow-cooked in a rich pomegranate and walnut sauce; the duck was tender with a depth of flavor that felt both comforting and luxurious.
I also had a bright fennel salad with preserved lemon buttermilk, which did wonders to cut through all the richness with a refreshing crunch.
Canberra
Often overshadowed by its bigger siblings, Canberra is Australia’s quiet achiever. As the nation’s capital, it boasts a refined yet unpretentious vibe, making it a perfect getaway.
But don’t let this laid-back demeanor fool you; Canberra is home to a thriving food scene that punches well above its weight.
Bar Rochford
I started with the kingfish crudo, a delicate dish elevated with savory tamari sauce, a crunch of fresh radish, and bursts of briny capers. It was light, bright, and perfectly balanced.
For the main, the snapper with vadouvan (a French-style curry), Zuni pickles, and cabbage. The flaky fish was infused with the warm, aromatic spices from the vadouvan, while the tangy pickles and tender cabbage added just the right amount of zest and texture.
Kita
This late-night gem, open from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., serves up Indonesian-inspired dishes with flair, making it a sanctuary for night owls and flavor seekers alike. However, they have a staunch no-alcohol policy, so leave your bottles at home.
I started with the Otak Otak, a grilled fishcake wrapped in a banana leaf. The smokey aroma hit me before I even took a bite, and the combination of the hot fish, peanut sauce, and sweet kecap manis (a sweetened soy sauce!) was a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.
Next came the Nasi Goreng – I ordered tofu as my protein, but they will also do chicken or fish cakes. This is comfort food at its finest. The fried rice was rich and aromatic, with more of the kecap manis for just the right touch of sweetness to balance the rich and runny yolk of the fried egg and the crisp, golden shallots.
After that, I decided I needed to satisfy my sweet tooth and ordered the Pisang roll. This was a crunchy spring roll filled with caramelized banana and melty dark chocolate paired with a scoop of ice cream. It was indulgence in its purest form and a perfect end to a meal.
Melbourne
Melbourne is a city that deserves to be savored – from its hidden laneways and endless coffee spots to its thriving food scene. But with my travel plans running behind, I had to make every moment count.
Nomad
I also ordered a wood-roasted sweet potato and am not afraid to say it was the best sweet potato I’ve ever had. Soft and caramelized, it was topped with finger lime caviar and kombu butter, delivering a lovely citrusy pop and umami bomb I didn’t know my previous sweet potatoes were lacking.
Adelaide
Adelaide, often dubbed the “City of Churches,” is also a haven for foodies.
With a full day to explore, I set out to experience two standout establishments that showcase Adelaide’s diverse gastronomy.
Parwana Afgan Kitchen
My friends and I started with the Banjan Borani, a robust eggplant dish cooked in fresh tomatoes and topped with a garlic yogurt dressing and fresh mint. The creamy, tangy flavors melded together beautifully, showcasing the simplicity and elegance of Afghan cuisine.
We also ordered the Kabuli Palaw – a fragrant rife pilaf with caramelized carrots, sultanas, and slivered almonds. This, coupled with red and green chutneys and the best naan any of us has ever tasted, had us glowing through the rest of the evening until we had to say our goodbyes.
The Little Rickshaw
I was able to meet up with some friends, and we started with the Ora King salmon sashimi dressed in XO chili oil and the house togarashi. The freshness of the fish, paired with the gentle heat of the oil, made for a perfect opening act.
Next came the chargrilled squid, glazed with gochujang and katsuobushi butter, a duck and water chestnut taro puff with fermented chilli and hoisin sauce, tteokbokki, and crispy pork jowl. Each course is better than the last, if possible.
Perth
The last couple of days of my journey saw me far, far from where this adventure started. Perth, perched on Australia’s sun-drenched west coast, feels like a world of its own.
Known for its stunning beaches, the city’s food scene reflects its unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and coastal charm. With plenty of fresh, local ingredients (especially if you love seafood), Perth offers everything from casual eateries to swanky high-end dining.
James Parker Sushi & Sake
I ordered as much as I could, starting out with the chef’s selection of sashimi, with each piece showcasing the impeccable freshness and quality of their seafood. But the stand-out for me was the unagi nigiri. The grilled freshwater eel was glazed in a caramel-like sauce and managed to beautifully balance the sweetness of the glaze with a hint of smoke.
As the name suggests, there is plenty of sake available, though I opted to pair my seafood with the Choya plum wine.
Madalena’s
Located near the beach in South Fremantle, this wine bar and eatery is another classic spot that focuses on sustainably sourced seafood. Its ever-evolving menu celebrates the best of what is fresh and local.
I began my meal with a few rock oysters. They were served simply, with a squeeze of lemon to let their briny sweetness shine (although I won’t lie, they were a bit too salty for my taste).
Next came the Wadjemup yellowfin tuna, paired with ajo blanco and confit pepitas. The tuna was velvety and perfectly balanced with the almond-based ajo blanco, with the crunch of the pepitas adding an earthy richness to the dish.
What I Learned About Dining in Australia
Dining in Australia is as laid back as the country itself, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your food adventures are as seamless and stress-free as possible.
- Reservations Are Key: Top rated restaurants, especially in big cities like Sydney and Melbourne, book up fast. Sometimes weeks in advance. If you’ve got your eye on a must-visit spot, plan ahead. That being said, there is a wealth of casual eateries and wine bars that welcome walk-ins, so don’t be afraid to go with the flow.
- Dress Smart – But Not Too Smart: Australians have mastered the art of “smart casual.” In most places, you’re fine in neat, comfortable clothing like sundresses, nice jeans, or button-ups. For high-end dining, you might want to step it up a bit, but there’s no need for formal wear.
- Tipping is Not Expected: Australia doesn’t have the tipping culture you find in the U.S. Hospitality workers are paid a fair wage, so tips are appreciated but not required. If the service is exceptional, rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is a very nice gesture.
- Dietary Options: Gourmet restaurants in Australia are fantastic at accommodating dietary needs, whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or avoiding dairy. Just let your server know, and they’ll usually have great alternatives ready to go.
Reflecting on Australia’s Top Tables
As I look back on my culinary trek across Australia, one thing stands out: this country knows how to eat. From Sydney’s daring reinventions of classic dishes to Perth’s celebration of seafood, every stop offered something unique and unforgettable.
Of course, a week wasn’t nearly enough to experience everything. In Melbourne, I had hoped to squeeze in a visit to Cumulus or Maha – both have rave reviews from locals and travelers alike – but sometimes you have to save a little for next time.
And believe me, there will be a next time.
What I loved most about dining in Australia was the connection between the land and sea. Every meal felt rooted in place, whether it was a sustainably caught fish or native ingredients reimagined in creative ways.
So if you are planning your own trip “Down Under,” come hungry.
FAQ About Dining in Australia
What Are the Best Restaurants in Australia?
Australia is home to some incredible dining experiences. From fine dining establishments like Sydney’s Saint Peter and Melbourne’s Nomad to hidden gems like Parwana in Adelaide, the country’s top-rated restaurants offer something for every palate.
Do I Need to Make Reservations at Restaurants in Australia?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended for many of Australia’s best restaurants, especially in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. Popular spots for fine dining often book out weeks in advance, so plan ahead to avoid missing out.
Is Tipping Required When Dining in Australia?
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated for its exceptional service. Most fine dining establishments include service in their pricing, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is a thoughtful gesture.
What is Australian Cuisine Known For?
Australian cuisine is incredibly diverse, drawing influences from Indigenous ingredients, European traditions, and Asian flavors.
Expect to find everything from fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes to inventive creations at some of the top rated restaurants in Australia.
