Modern Australian cuisine is a vibrant celebration of local produce, multicultural influence and innovative flair. From breezy seaside cafes to intimate wine bars tucked away in leafy suburbs, this style of dining offers something uniquely expressive of our laidback lifestyle and sophisticated palate.
Here are five venues that are mastering the art of Modern Australian dining - each with a distinct character and standout dishes that make them more than just a meal, but a destination.
The Marina Café – Church Point, NSW
Tucked into the tranquil pocket of Church Point, The Marina Café is the kind of place where the view steals your breath before the food even hits the table. Nestled along the Quays Marina, its open-plan layout seamlessly blends indoor serenity with alfresco coastal charm - white sails catch the light while gentle sea breezes whisper across wooden decks. Whether you're sipping a crisp Chardonnay or soaking up the waterside calm with friends, this is waterfront dining at its most refined yet relaxed.
The menu is a testament to fresh market produce, updated regularly to reflect seasonal abundance. A dish of whole fried fish arrives golden and crisp, served with a delicate balance of steamed Asian greens, a generous slather of umami-rich XO butter and a zesty squeeze of lemon - a plate that’s both theatrical and beautifully grounded in its flavours.
Plan your escape and book a table by the water, make sure to review your experience.
Jimmy Wah’s – Burleigh Heads, Qld
In the buzzing heart of Burleigh Heads, Jimmy Wah’s strikes a lively balance between classic Vietnamese traditions and contemporary Gold Coast energy. The space pulses with a sense of occasion - music floating through the air, diners sharing plates and cocktails flowing with an easy rhythm. The atmosphere is equal parts cool and comforting, perfectly suited to an evening that unfolds with laughter and full glasses.
The culinary experience here takes Vietnamese ingredients and runs with them in a modern direction. A standout is the caramelised pork belly: rich and sticky with a crackle of skin, offset by a silken turmeric and sweet potato purée. A spicy and bright lychee-chilli salsa cuts through the richness, while thin slices of watermelon radish add texture and visual drama.
Perched on Barrenjoey Road, Lovat is where Northern Beaches locals and visiting foodies gather for sophisticated brasserie-style dining without pretension. The aesthetic is crisp and coastal - striped cushions, breezy lanterns and lush greenery - creating a space that feels thoughtfully elegant without trying too hard. Whether you're here for a long lunch or date-night dinner, the room hums with quiet confidence.
Seafood is where Lovat shines and the handmade spaghetti with blue swimmer crab is a masterclass in balance. Tossed with peppery rocket and juicy cherry tomatoes, the dish is elevated by a punchy kombu-infused sauce and the subtle crunch of pangrattato. It’s a plate that nods to Italian roots while staying distinctly Modern Australian in its execution.
Secure your spot and taste what the coast does best, leave a review to rate your meal.
Banksia Seafood and Grill – Torquay, Qld
With a breezy Hamptons-inspired interior and an outlook straight onto the Hervey Bay Esplanade, Banksia Seafood and Grill is a coastal gem where elegance meets ease. From the moment you walk into the light-drenched space adorned with local art and polished wooden floors, it’s clear this is a venue designed for lingering. Alfresco seating lets the sea air do its thing while you settle in with a cocktail or local wine.
Seafood is the star here and the grilled Moreton Bay bugs are a firm highlight. Plump and perfectly charred, they arrive resting in a buttery bath of garlic, lemon and herbs. Paired with sticky rice and a refreshing herb slaw, the dish is at once luxurious and deeply satisfying - sunshine on a plate.
Robbie’s Wine Bar – Hawthorn East, Vic
Robbie’s Wine Bar is Hawthorn East’s not-so-hidden treasure - a neighbourhood spot where comfort and quality live side by side. The space buzzes with chatter, the clink of glasses and the aroma of slow-simmered sauces drifting from the open kitchen. It’s less about spectacle and more about soulful consistency - perfectly aligned with its philosophy of elevating the simple things.
Among the many delights, the Panko and mustard-crusted lamb rack stands tall. It’s enrobed in a golden, crunchy shell and set atop a vibrant smear of spicy Romesco, its heat offset by the punch of fresh chimichurri. Rich, rustic and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that reflects the venue’s ability to play with boldness while remaining beautifully restrained.
From the laidback elegance of seaside spots to the urbane intimacy of local wine bars, these Modern Australian venues represent a nation’s palate - unfussy, flavour-driven and confidently diverse. Whichever you choose, you’re not just eating - you’re embracing a dining culture that continues to evolve with style.
