Dining in the Northern Territory is an unforgettable journey of flavour and place. Beneath vast starry skies and surrounded by ancient landscapes, every meal feels deeply connected to nature.
Native ingredients like barramundi, bush tomatoes and Kakadu plums create dishes that are smoky, zesty and refreshingly vibrant. The atmosphere is both rugged and refined, where campfire aromas mingle with fine dining creativity.
Sharing food becomes a celebration of culture, storytelling and community, reflecting traditions as old as the land itself. It is adventurous, soulful and nourishing - an experience that lingers, rich with authenticity, spirit, and the unforgettable taste of the Territory.
Here are three Readers’ Choice Award-winning venues which epitomise dining in the NT:
Winner American – Metro
Parked beneath the tropical canopy of Berry Springs, Da-Bomb Street Food – The Darwin Chilli Company – is a vibrant food truck bursting with flavour and energy. The air is alive with the smoky aroma of sizzling spices, drawing people in from every direction. Its colourful truck gleams against the laid-back bush backdrop, serving up dishes that are bold, fiery and full of personality.
Each bite tells a story of passion and heat, with chilli at the heart of every creation. As laughter and conversation flow around the truck, the flavours linger, leaving a lasting spark of adventure on the palate. Chow down on pulled pork or brisket tacos, along with nachos, burgers and BBQ platters, complete with smoked potato bake and vegetables.
Winner Modern Australian – Metro
Nestled in the heart of Berry Springs, the Berry Springs Tavern is a welcoming haven where rustic charm meets the warmth of community spirit. Surrounded by lush greenery and the hum of the tropics, it exudes a relaxed, country atmosphere that invites visitors to unwind. The tavern’s spacious verandahs and open interiors capture cooling breezes, while friendly faces create a sense of belonging.
With live music drifting through the evening air and the laughter of families and friends filling the space, Berry Springs Tavern offers more than just a place to gather-it’s a vibrant slice of Territory life, full of heart. Make sure to sample pub classics such as braised beef and Guinness stew or a housemade pie of the day, with chips and salad.
Winner Pub Food – Metro
Tucked among the tropical greenery of Howard Springs, the Howard Springs Tavern radiates a rustic charm that feels both welcoming and timeless. Its wide verandahs invite you to linger, while the gentle hum of conversation mingles with laughter carried on the evening breeze. Towering gums frame the tavern, their shadows swaying softly in the Northern Territory light.
Inside, the warm timber and laid-back atmosphere create a sense of community where locals and travellers meet as old friends. It’s more than a tavern - it’s a gathering place where stories are shared, connections are made and the essence of outback hospitality thrives. Appease ravenous hunger with baked half-shell scallops, before mains like slow-cooked beef ribs, housemade slaw and chips.
