Savouring Cairns: The Ultimate Foodie Guide

Cairns might be famous for its reef and rainforests, but its food scene is just as exciting. From sizzling grills and fresh-caught seafood to French pastries, Italian classics, and playful tiki cocktails, this tropical city serves up a world of flavours. Whether you’re craving fine dining, global street food, or a cosy café by the marina, Cairns is a paradise for food lovers ready to eat their way through the tropics. To help you make the most of it, we’ve rounded up 10 must-visit foodie hotspots that capture the taste, culture, and vibrant spirit of Cairns.

Tamarind

📍6-8 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870

If you’re chasing fine dining that truly wows, Tamarind is the crown jewel of Cairns’ culinary scene. With two prestigious Chef Hats and the title of World Luxury Restaurant Awards Continent Winner for Fusion Cuisine in Australia and Oceania, this spot doesn’t just serve food — it serves an experience. The menu celebrates Australian Freestyle cuisine, weaving global influences with the freshest local produce. Step into its refined, elegant ambiance and prepare to savour dishes that linger long after the last bite — silky Penang duck curry with caramelised pumpkin and roasted peanuts, lobster pulled fresh from the reef, and their iconic whole crispy baby barramundi, perfectly paired with sticky chilli and garlic sauce. This is Cairns dining at its most indulgent.

Fine Dining

Image: Fine Dining at Tamarind Restaurant, Tamarind Restaurant

Dundee’s Restaurant on the Waterfront

📍 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns City QLD 4870

If it’s authentic Australian flavours you’re craving, Dundee’s is an absolute must. This waterfront favourite dishes up flame-grilled Aussie beef, the freshest local seafood, seasonal salads, and even adventurous bites like kangaroo or crocodile skewers — all made to order with premium produce and house-made sauces. Pair your meal with unbeatable views of the Marlin Marina, Trinity Inlet, and the surrounding mountains as the sun dips below the horizon. Whether you’re tucking into pasta, fresh-caught fish, or something uniquely Australian, Dundee’s delivers a feast for both your taste buds and your eyes. Round out the experience with a tropical cocktail, a glass of local wine, or an ice-cold beer — all served with the warm, down-to-earth hospitality Cairns is known for.

Image: Dinner on the Waterfront, Dundee’s Restaurant On The Waterfront

Waterbar & Grill

📍 1 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870

For steaks that practically melt in your mouth, layered with bold African-inspired flavours, Waterbar & Grill is the spot to visit. Famous for its perfectly cooked cuts and punchy seasonings, this restaurant delivers dishes that stop you mid-bite as the flavours unfold. Beyond the signature steaks, the menu offers juicy ribs, Portuguese-style chicken, fresh seafood, hearty burgers, and even fresh salads. Set on the spacious deck at The Pier Cairns, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a great steak with a side of ocean views.

Image: Water Bar & Grill, Tourism and Events Queensland/Andrew Watson

Flamingos Tiki Bar

📍 43 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870

For a night out that’s as playful as it is memorable, head straight to Flamingos Tiki Bar in the heart of Cairns. This vibrant hotspot is all about fun, serving up quirky themed drinks and one-of-a-kind cocktails that feel more like an experience than just a sip. Tropical prints, neon signs, palm trees, bamboo accents, and even hula girls setting the scene while you kick back with a classic Zombie cocktail or one of Flamingos’ creative house specials. A modern twist on the traditional Polynesian tiki bar, Flamingos is a true tropical oasis where good vibes are always on the menu.

Image: Flamingos Tiki Bar in Cairns, Sam Bygrave

Cora Restaurant and Bar Broadbeach

📍 50 Surf Parade, Broadbeach QLD 4218

If you’re after a cosy night out with delicious food, Cora is the spot to be. Tucked inside The Beach Hotel Broadbeach, this bistro-style gem blends coastal charm with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu is all about comfort with a twist — hearty schnitzels, juicy steaks, wood-fired pizzas, and burgers alongside elevated seasonal dishes and generous share plates perfect for passing around the table. Whether you’re catching up with friends, sharing a meal with family, or just in the mood for a modern take on pub classics, Cora serves it all with quality, flavour, and that unmistakable laid-back Gold Coast spirit.

Image: Bistro-style cuisine, Cora Restaurant and Bar Broadbeach

📍 Lobby Level The Star, 1 Casino Dr, Broadbeach QLD 4218

For a dining experience that transports you straight to Tokyo, Kiyomi delivers Japanese cuisine at its most elevated and innovative. Led by a team of visionary chefs, the menu strikes the perfect balance between modern creativity and authentic tradition — every dish feels like a bold reimagining of classic flavours. From delicate bites to daring flavour pairings, Kiyomi has earned its reputation as one of the Gold Coast’s most talked-about restaurants. One visit is all it takes to see why this spot is redefining Japanese dining in Australia, bringing the vibrant taste of Tokyo to the coast.

Image: Japanese dining in Australia, Kiyomi

Miami Marketta

📍 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami QLD 4220

If you are in the mood for a taste of global street food without leaving the Gold Coast, Miami Marketta is the place to be. Step into this buzzing laneway dining experience and you could easily imagine yourself wandering through the backstreets of Thailand, Barcelona, or New York — only it’s right here in Cairns. With an incredible mix of international food vendors all under one roof, every craving is covered. The atmosphere is electric, thanks to the live music from blues to jazz to indie artists. Family-friendly, open to the public, and proudly one of Australia’s longest-running night markets.

Image: Miami Marketta, Tourism and Events Queensland

Jimmy Burger & Co

📍 66 Shields St, Cairns City QLD 4870

When those American-style cravings hit, Jimmy Burger & Co is the go-to spot in Cairns. Since 2016, this cosy yet vibrant eatery has been flipping some of the city’s favourite burgers, shakes, and sides — the kind of comfort food that’s best enjoyed with friends. What makes Jimmy’s stand out is the freshness: from the soft buns to the juicy patties, crispy fries, and rich, creamy shakes, everything is crafted to satisfy. Don’t leave without trying the house favourite, Jimmy’s Classic Burger, and of course, one of their famous thick shakes — a must-try for any foodie exploring Cairns.

Image: American style burgers, Jimmy Burger & Co

Le Crouton

📍 227 Kamerunga Rd, Freshwater QLD 4870

For a little slice of Paris in Cairns, Le Crouton is the go-to spot. Famous for its buttery croissants, crusty baguettes, and indulgent pastries like pear and lemon tarts, this French bakery has quickly earned a loyal local following. Beyond the sweets, you’ll also find savoury favourites — from gourmet sandwiches to rich, golden quiches — all paired perfectly with a freshly brewed coffee. With a mix of cosy indoor seating and sunny outdoor tables, it’s the perfect place to grab a pastry, sip your coffee, and soak up Cairns.

Image: French Pastries, Le Crouton

Piccolo Cucina

📍 17 Abbott St, Cairns City QLD 4870

For an authentic taste of Italy in the heart of Cairns, Piccolo Cucina delivers with passion and precision. Every dish here is crafted with care, from traditional pastas made fresh daily to hand-stretched pizzas topped with the finest local ingredients. Their crusts are baked to perfection — crisp on the outside, soft and chewy inside — the kind of pizza that keeps you coming back for more. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to unwind over an Italian-inspired cocktail while savouring flavours that transport you straight to Rome. For those looking for a true Italian dining experience away from the crowds, Piccolo Cucina is a must-visit.

Image: Delicious Pizza, Piccolo Cucina

Explore Cairns Culinary Scene by Campervan

One of the greatest joys of travelling around Australia is doing it by campervan — giving you the freedom to explore where you want, when you want, all with the comfort of your home on wheels. Cairns’ food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. And it’s not just about the food — the city’s vibrant pub and bar culture adds even more flavour to your journey. With a campervan, you get to savour it all at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems along the way.

Of course, no road trip is complete without snacks. Sometimes the best moments aren’t just the meals you eat out, but the simple pleasure of kicking back in your campervan with your favourite comfort foods. Australia has no shortage of iconic road trip bites — from Tim Tams, lamingtons, and vanilla slices to meat pies, sausage rolls, Shapes, cheese and bacon rolls, and yes, some Vegemite for good measure. With Cairns as your base and your campervan as your companion, every meal and every snack becomes part of the adventure.

One of the joys of campervan travel is that you can also cook your own meals on the road — check out our blog to see how it’s done!

Image: Enjoying the flexibility and freedom with a GoCheap Campervan

Want more ideas for your Queensland adventure? Check out our itineraries:

Ready to start your trip? Call our friendly reservations team on 1300 664 485 or check out our website to see the campervans we have available at our branches!