We’ve tallied the votes and the 2025 Readers’ Choice Award winners have been announced!
After a bumper year for voting, with participation far exceeding expectations, click here to find out the big winners per category.
We applaud every reader who took the time to back their favourite local haunt, hidden gem, or fine-dining institution – you certainly did your bit and then some!
From cosy regional bistros with cult-like followings to high-concept city stalwarts redefining what it means to dine out in Australia today, the 2025 Awards reflect not just culinary excellence, but a genuine groundswell of community pride.
In a new twist that’s equal parts democratic and delicious, this year sees two winners crowned in each category: one Metro, one Regional. It's a nod to the evolving landscape of Australian dining, where top-tier talent is just as likely to be plating up in a country town as it is in the heart of the city.
Adding another layer of prestige, one venue from each state has been crowned the overall State winner — the venue that soared above the rest across all categories. These are the true standouts, the ones whose impact isn’t limited to their postcode or their niche. They’ve captured the collective imagination of voters and that’s no small feat.
Here’s the most important part: these awards aren’t decided by an elite panel in a closed-off boardroom. They’re chosen by you. Every espresso-sipping, wine-pairing, pork-belly-adoring one of you.
The venues that have risen to the top are there because their patrons — the lifeblood of their business — said they deserve it.
Make sure to put these venues on your radar next time you are excited to try something different on the Australian dining scene and make an impact on how restaurants around the country are perceived.
Bon appetit!
