Discover 8 State Readers’ Choice Award Winners as Voted by You!

The 2025 AGFG Readers’ Choice Awards celebrate Australia’s most loved dining destinations, as voted by our passionate foodie community.

Each year, these prestigious awards highlight venues that consistently impress with outstanding food, service and atmosphere across a variety of categories - from fine dining to casual cafés, multicultural eats to regional gems.

Unlike critic-based awards, the Readers’ Choice Awards are driven by real diners, making them a true reflection of public opinion and loyalty. Winners are chosen through thousands of verified reviews and ratings submitted by AGFG users throughout the year, showcasing the venues that have captured hearts and palates.

This year, there were four chances to win a coveted RCA – as a category winner, Regional or Metro winner and the ultimate prize – State winner with the most votes for that state.

Whether it’s a hidden laneway haunt, a country pub with flair, or a sleek city restaurant redefining cuisine, these awards honour the diverse and dynamic landscape of Australian dining. 

Congratulations to all 2025 winners - your dedication to culinary excellence has not gone unnoticed by those who matter most: your guests.

Here are the eight State Award-winning venues and why you should visit them

Otis Dining Hall in Kingston is a Modern Australian gem, celebrated for its luxurious yet relaxed ambience in earthy tones and twinkling chandeliers. Under Chef Damian Brabender’s leadership - voted Canberra’s Restaurateur of the Year 2023 - it delivers standout dishes like the signature Otis pepper steak and seasonal truffle-rich plates.

 

With an expertly curated Australasian wine and cocktail list and impeccable service, Otis offers an ambient escape from the day-to-day city bustle whether for a memorable midweek dinner, special occasion or romantic date night.

LuMi Bar & Dining in Pyrmont is an intimate, glass-fronted haven perched over Pyrmont Bay. Under Chef Federico Zanellato - whose résumé includes Noma, Ryugin and Attica - the restaurant blends Italian craftsmanship with Japanese finesse, delivering elegant degustation menus and inventive bar snacks in every bite.

 

Seasonal tasting menus showcase seafood-forward dishes, creative pasta and refined desserts, all perfectly paired with wine, sake or cocktails. LuMi is ideal for special occasions, romantic rendezvous or corporate entertaining. 

Experience the vibrant flavours of Sri Lanka at Ella by Minoli in Darwin, where MasterChef star Minoli De Silva delivers bold, modern dishes in a warm, stylish setting. From fragrant curries to smoky street food-inspired plates, each dish tells a story of heritage and heart.

 

Whether you're after a memorable date night or a unique dining adventure, Ella by Minoli invites you to savour spices, culture and creativity in every bite. A must-visit Darwin culinary gem.

Little Truffle Dining Room & Bar in Mermaid Beach serves exquisite Modern Australian cuisine in a sophisticated, intimate setting. Led by award-winning Chef Daniel Ridgeway, the menu features standout dishes like seared duck breast, Moreton Bay bug tortellini, wood-fired lamb shoulder and raspberry soufflé - paired with a curated wine list and cocktails.

 

Housed in a luxe navy and brass room with velvet drapery and private spaces, Little Truffle is perfect for special occasions or an elevated evening out – a must-dine experience.

Restaurant Botanic, nestled in a heritage rotunda within Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens, delivers an immersive garden-to-plate degustation experience. Helmed by Jamie Musgrave (formerly Justin James), the menu showcases more than 20 courses crafted with foraged native botanicals and local produce, beautifully paired with curated drinks.

 

Its open kitchen, vaulted ceilings and serene lake views offer both culinary theatre and atmosphere; this is a must-try dining destination in the heart of Adelaide city.

Discover a culinary journey at Taste. By Bold Cuisine in Devonport, where passion and creativity shine through every dish. This stylish and welcoming restaurant blends contemporary flair with fresh Tasmanian produce, delivering bold, flavour-driven plates that excite the senses.

 

Whether you're after a casual lunch or refined evening experience, the ever-evolving menu and attentive service make every visit memorable. Taste. is a must-visit for those seeking vibrant, modern cuisine on Tasmania’s north-west coast.

Nestled on a hillside in Dixons Creek just 60 km from Melbourne, Steels Gate Wines Cellar Door & Restaurant celebrates Yarra Valley terroir with stunning vineyard views and award-winning estate labels.

 

Run by passionate vignerons Brad Atkins and Matthew Davis, the kitchen crafts Modern Australian dishes using produce from their garden and local suppliers under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Pasindu Wimkthi. Expect an unforgettable dining experience, embraced by warm service, shared plate options and elegant, relaxed surrounds.

Wills Domain Winery Restaurant in Yallingup offers 60 hectares of stunning vineyard and Indian Ocean views, making it a perfect dining destination. Its Modern Australian menu highlights local, seasonal and indigenous produce - think Arkady lamb with eggplant, sheep’s yoghurt and zucchini - elegantly plated by Chef Jed Gerrard and team.

 

Discover an unforgettable spot for special occasions or relaxed lunches as warm, knowledgeable staff take care of all your needs – every plate is a work of art produced with uncompromising quality to deliver one of the best dining experiences in WA.