Food is a profound connector, a thread weaving through our travels and experiences. Across this expansive land, restaurants are more than mere establishments; they are destinations where the magic of local produce and culinary artistry converge. The following selection encapsulates the essence of dining out—a reminder that sometimes, the journey to a meal is as rewarding as the meal itself.
Cataract on Paterson - Launceston, TAS
Cataract on Paterson offers a modern take on dining that perfectly complements the charm of Launceston’s city fringe. With an ambience that melds classic furnishings with contemporary flair, this restaurant creates a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a long week. Known for its commitment to using fresh Tasmanian produce, the menu shines with high-quality options like grass-fed beef from Great Southern Pinnacle and a seafood tasting plate brimming with locally sourced oysters and scallops. An interactive stone grill experience adds an exciting twist, allowing your meal to be cooked to perfection right at your table.
The standout dishes tell a story of freshness and innovation; the slow-cooked beef cheek is exquisitely tender, paired with creamy mash and charred spring onion, while seafood lovers will revel in the penne tossed with plump prawns and scallops submerged in a luscious vodka rose sauce. Each dish is carefully crafted, ensuring that patrons relish the authentic taste of Tasmania with every bite.
Merlot Restaurant Bar - Milawa, VIC
Situated on Milawa-Bobinawarrah Road, Merlot Restaurant Bar is an idyllic gastronomic refuge that embraces the essence of the surrounding vineyards. With a minimalist design that features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, this venue offers picturesque views of the estate's lush greenery. As the different sizes of tables create an inviting communal vibe, guests can indulge in delightful culinary offerings while enjoying the warm atmosphere synonymous with the High Country. The menu here reflects a deep reverence for local produce, forging a connection between the kitchen and the vineyards right outside.
Begin your culinary journey with the native scallop satay, delicately paired with crispy saltbush and sweet potato roti, a perfect prelude to the main event. Not to be missed is the pork belly pithivier, a harmonious combination of flaky pastry filled with tender pork paired with seasonal pumpkin and apple, while wine enthusiasts should feel compelled to match their meal with a glass of Cavedon Pinot Noir. Perhaps the en croute red emperor will captivate you, with its exquisite scallop mousseline and flavoursome accompaniments.
Reserve your dining experience today.
Taste of The Himalayas - Brighton, SA
Nestled on Brighton Road, Taste of The Himalayas serves up an authentic Nepalese dining adventure that intertwines tradition with contemporary flair. The warm and inviting space is adorned with artistic representations of Himalayan culture, complemented by soft lighting that creates a cosy escape from the outside world. Perfect for intimate dinners or larger gatherings, this restaurant engages diners with flavours that resonate deeply with Nepal’s rich culinary traditions. The hospitality exemplified here welcomes you into a memorable experience fortified by attentive service.
Start your meal with the exquisite chicken momos—steamed morsels served with a zesty tomato and sesame seed achar—or savour the seasoned vegetable samosas alongside a fresh mint and yoghurt drizzle. For the main course, the tender lamb cutlets slow-roasted in a traditional clay oven boast complex flavours, served alongside roasted vegetables and an aromatic timbur sauce. Alternatively, indulge in the slow-cooked goat curry, a fragrant melange of signature spices that encapsulates the essence of Himalayan cooking.
Ché Bon - Ballina, NSW
Ché Bon, situated on Cherry Street in Ballina, invites diners to embark on a culinary voyage of ‘gastronomie Française’ with an enticing Australian twist. The atmosphere blends rustic charm and modern elegance, where alfresco seating under the warm sun contrasts beautifully with the enchanting indoor space, illuminated by fairy lights. This dining haven offers a rich menu that redefines classic French dishes while incorporating local influences. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a gathering of friends, the venue’s approach to flavours is sure to captivate your palate.
Savour the rich taste of snails enveloped in garlic and parsley butter or the exquisitely crafted beef tartare finished with a modern twist of miso and wasabi. For the main course, the duck leg confit impresses with its exquisite pairing of carrot mash and orange reduction, a dish that resonates with comfort. Alternatively, embrace the decadence of the cote de boeuf for an impressive shared experience, complete with seasonal vegetables and luxuriously rich meat jus. As you close your meal, the delicate coconut and pineapple panna cotta is a refreshing finale.
The Long Pavilion at qualia - Hamilton Island, QLD
Perched atop Whitsunday Boulevard on Hamilton Island, The Long Pavilion at qualia invites guests to dine amidst breathtaking ocean views. With a focus on Modern Australian fare, this exceptional venue creates the perfect setting for breakfast, lunch, or a sunset soirée paired with the finest wine. The modern yet relaxed atmosphere invites you to revel in the culinary artistry created by the team, which champions local and seasonal produce. Here, every meal unfolds like a new adventure surrounded by natural beauty.
The menu is replete with lavish options; consider indulging in the opulent white sturgeon caviar complemented by fermented crumpet and cultured yuzu cream for a distinctive nibble. The kangaroo tartare served with pickled blackberry and orange gel delivers a burst of flavours, while the mains boast delights such as bay lobster meticulously paired with guanciale and green oil. Those seeking something heartier can delight in the enticing duck breast accompanied by delicate duck tortellino. Every dish is designed to resonate with the spirit of the Whitsundays and will linger in your memory long after the last bite.
Secure your table and experience this paradise.
Each of these venues represents a unique chapter in the narrative of Australian dining, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey. Whether you're seeking modern twists on local classics or a seamless blend of tradition and innovation, these restaurants are the epitome of dining worth making the trip for.
