Celebrate the flavours Australia loves with our Readers’ Choice 2025 winners - a showcase of venues that consistently capture hearts, cravings and loyal followings. From sun-kissed Egyptian plates in Sydney to country-charm coffee in South Australia, coastal Italian indulgence in Queensland, vibrant Greek dining in Victoria and wood-fired perfection in Melbourne’s bayside suburbs, these standout destinations embody the spirit of great hospitality.
Each offers its own story, atmosphere and signature style, yet all share a dedication to quality and the simple joy of a memorable meal. Join us as we spotlight the restaurants and cafés our readers can’t stop talking about.
Readers’ Choice 2025 – Egyptian – Metro
Bekya in Summer Hill hums with an easy, sun-soaked charm. Warm spices drift from the kitchen, wrapping the room in aromas of cumin, coriander and slow-cooked meat. The space feels inviting yet lively, with earthy textures, soft lighting and the steady rhythm of conversation rising and falling around shared plates.
Colourful dips, crisp falafel and pillowy breads arrive in generous spreads that encourage lingering. There’s a sense of familiarity here - of home cooking polished with care - balanced by the vibrant edge of Middle Eastern-street food. Bekya offers comfort, warmth and a quiet buzz that makes Summer Hill feel wonderfully alive.
Readers’ Choice 2025 – Café
Bean Machine in Strathalbyn feels like a cosy pause button in the middle of town. Sunlight spills across timber counters, glinting off the gleaming espresso machine as it hums steadily in the background. The aroma of freshly ground beans mingles with the sweetness of baked treats cooling on the counter.
Locals drift in for their morning ritual, exchanging relaxed greetings while baristas work with calm precision. Outside, the gentle country pace filters through the open door, adding to the café’s unhurried charm. Bean Machine blends warmth, character and seriously good coffee into a space that feels instantly familiar.
Readers’ Choice 2025 – Italian – Metro
Balboa Italian in Palm Beach brings a sense of coastal glamour to classic Italian dining. Soft light glows against timber and brick, creating a warm, contemporary space that buzzes with relaxed energy. The kitchen sends out the aromas of wood-fired pizzas, slow-simmered sauces and herbs just torn from their stems.
Plates arrive vibrant and generous - silky pasta, charred crusts and colourful antipasti that invite sharing. Outside, the sea breeze drifts in, adding to the effortless holiday feel. Balboa blends modern style with Italian soul, offering food that’s comforting, bold and made for long, memorable evenings by the beach.
Readers’ Choice 2025 – Greek
Bani’s Restaurant & Bar in Cowes pairs seaside ease with a touch of modern polish. The space feels bright and breezy, with natural timber, soft lighting and the soft hum of holidaymakers settling in for a good meal. Aromas of grilled seafood, sizzling spices and slow-cooked meat drift from the kitchen, hinting at generous plates built for sharing.
Cocktails shake quietly at the bar, adding a relaxed buzz as glasses clink and conversation gathers. Whether it’s a long lunch or an unhurried evening, Bani’s delivers a warm, inviting atmosphere where coastal charm meets hearty, flavour-forward dining.
Readers’ Choice 2025 – Pizza – Metro
Napolitano Pizza in Beaumaris feels like stepping into a pocket of Southern Italy by the sea. The air is warm with the scent of blistered dough, melted mozzarella and basil just torn from the stem. Inside, the cosy space glows with soft light, chatter and the rhythmic roar of the wood-fired oven.
Pizzaiolos work with effortless focus, sliding out pies crowned with vibrant toppings and perfectly charred edges. Locals drift in for their favourite classics, while families linger over crisp salads and rustic sides. Napolitano offers simple, soulful comfort - pizza made with heart, served in a space that feels instantly familiar.
