Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory in Australia, is known for its vibrant food scene. With a mix of Asian, Greek, and modern Australian cuisines, there is no shortage of delicious dining options in this tropical city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring the culinary delights of Darwin is a must. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best restaurants in Darwin that offer a diverse range of flavours and dining experiences.
Best Asian Restaurants in Darwin
Darwin’s proximity to Asia has influenced its culinary landscape, and the city boasts some fantastic Asian restaurants. From traditional Korean BBQ to Vietnamese street food, here are some Asian eateries you shouldn’t miss:
Little Miss Korea
Located down a graffiti-filled laneway, Little Miss Korea is a hot spot for Korean cuisine in Darwin. The restaurant offers a modern take on Korean à la carte meals, including traditional dishes like Kimchi and Korean BBQ. With a small but well-curated wine list and a selection of cocktails, Little Miss Korea is a must-visit for lovers of Korean food.
Smith Street Mall
For budget-friendly Asian delights, head to the arcades around the Smith Street Mall. Don’t miss Roast & Noodle 328, where you can enjoy a cheap and cheerful Chinese barbecue and mouth-watering prawn wonton soup.
Chow
If you’re craving Vietnamese pho, make your way to Chow. Located on the waterfront, Chow is a bolthole of authentic Vietnamese food, serving up delicious rice noodles with raw beef and other Vietnamese favourites.
Hanuman
Hanuman is a pan-Asian restaurant that combines Indian, Thai, and Nyonya flavours. With its fabulous deck and signature dishes like clay pot oysters, Hanuman is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Noodle House
For unfussy and inexpensive Chinese stir-fry recipes, head to The Noodle House. This restaurant is known for its quick and easy noodles that are perfect for a casual dining experience.
Ella – by Minoli
Ella – by Minoli offers a luxurious take on modern Sri Lankan cuisine. With a well-balanced mix of flavors and creative cocktails, this restaurant is a great choice for those looking to try something different.
Best Greek Restaurants in Darwin
Darwin has a strong Greek heritage, and you can indulge in home-style mezedes, juicy meats, and grilled seafood at the city’s best Greek restaurants. Here’s one you should check out:
Yots
Yots is a Greek restaurant located overlooking Cullen Bay Marina. With its traditional Greek food and stunning views, Yots offers a memorable dining experience for lovers of Greek cuisine.
Best Upmarket Restaurants in Darwin
If you’re looking for an elegant dining experience, Darwin has several upmarket restaurants that offer top-notch cuisine and a sophisticated atmosphere. Here are some notable options:
Pee Wee’s at the Point
Pee Wee’s at the Point is an iconic restaurant with sweeping views across Fannie Bay. With its innovative Top End favorites and dishes like macadamia and mint-crusted lamb rack, Pee Wee’s is the perfect place to enjoy Darwin’s tropical weather.
Char
Located in historic Admiralty House, Char is an upmarket surf-and-turf restaurant. Known for its meticulously curated dishes, Char offers a charming dining experience under lantern-lit trees.
Wharf 1
For the best crispy barramundi in Darwin, head to Wharf 1 at the waterfront. With magnificent views of the harbor and a selection of cured and raw plates, Wharf 1 is a great choice for a sumptuous lunchtime feast.
PepperBerry
PepperBerry, located at The Hilton Darwin, is one of the town’s best-rated restaurants. With its modern Australian menu and fine dining setting, PepperBerry offers a range of dishes that showcase the freshest produce available.
Casual Dining in Darwin
Darwin is known for its laid-back atmosphere, and casual dining options abound. From food trucks to beachside picnics, here are some relaxed dining experiences to try:
Nightcliff Foreshore’s Food Truck Scene
Located in the artsy hub of Nightcliff, the Nightcliff Foreshore is home to a village walk of new-breed food trucks. From Teardrop Coffee, a vintage van serving up delicious coffee, to Cucina Sotto Le Stelle, a mobile restaurant specialising in wood-fired pizzas, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant food truck scene.
Hot Tamale
If you’re craving Mexican food, Hot Tamale is the place to go. This water-view restaurant offers a range of Mexican dishes, including raw snapper ceviche and hot pork shoulder served in steaming tamale. Don’t miss their ‘Loco Arvos’ for great deals on tacos and margaritas.
Crustaceans on the Wharf
Crustaceans on the Wharf is a classic surf and turf restaurant located on the Darwin waterfront. With an enormous menu featuring dishes like crocodile fillet skewers and grilled squid, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic dinner by the sea.
The Oyster Bar
Located at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, The Oyster Bar is a great place to enjoy oysters served up in various ways, from natural to Thai-style. They also offer a range of other delicious seafood options, including pickled octopus and coconut crumbed prawns.
Darwin’s ‘Clubs’
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy a beverage with a view, Darwin’s clubs offer a unique experience. Here’s one club you shouldn’t miss:
Darwin Ski Club
Darwin Ski Club is the perfect spot to enjoy a classic Top End sunset while sipping on your favorite bottled beer. With its manicured lawns and views of Fannie Bay, this club offers a laid-back atmosphere and flavorful casual dining options.
Fun Darwin Restaurants and Bars
In addition to the above, Darwin is home to some fun restaurants and bars that offer unique experiences. Here are a few worth checking out:
Deckchair Cinema
The open-air Deckchair Cinema screens a range of films seven nights a week, offering a licensed bar and decent food to enhance your movie-watching experience. With its location on the Darwin Waterfront, this cinema is a great place to relax and enjoy a film under the stars.
With its diverse range of culinary offerings, Darwin is a food lover’s paradise. From Asian and Greek cuisines to upmarket restaurants and casual dining options, the city has something to suit every taste. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to explore the best restaurants in Darwin and savor the flavors of this tropical city.
