Take two days to a week meandering to enjoy those nearby sights — it’s an opportunity to experience more of this beautiful country like a local.
Brisbane to Ballina: 2.5 hours drive
You can’t leave the buzz of Brisbane without a hearty feed to set you up for the day. If you’re looking for recommendations, head to West End for a haven of cafes all competing for the best brunch award.
The Gunshop Cafe is particularly renowned for its breakfast fare, including brekky burgers, coconut and passion fruit French toast, and fried chicken with waffles and poached eggs.
Head to the Gunshop Cafe for breakfast and smoothies.
Once you’re on the road heading towards Ballina, stop halfway in Burleigh Heads for a cheeky beach trip and a cold one at Burleigh Pavilion before you leave the sunshine feeling in Queensland.
A serene spot to sip refreshing cocktails at Ballina Beach. (Image: Burleigh Pavillion)
Ballina highlights
One of the cutest spots to eat and drink here is The Belle General . With a boho feel, great coffee and a nourishing menu, it’s a great place to start your day.
Blessed with 25km of cycle paths, it’d be a shame not to get out and enjoy them. Hire a bike and enjoy the scenery along the banks of Richmond River.
Or how about heading to a crashing waterfall? Just 20 minutes away is Killen Falls offering a viewing platform to see the magnificence up close.
The enchanting Killen Falls is situated at the heart of a rainforest. (Image: Destination NSW)
Stay in this cosy boutique motel on your visit to Ballina.
Ballina to Yamba: 1.5 hours drive
Situated at the mouth of the Clarence River, you won’t regret a brief stop at the beach town of Yamba.
Go on an exhilarating road trip to the coastal town of Yamba. (Image: Destination NSW)
Yamba highlights
Grab a cuppa at Bean Scene Cafe Yamba which uses beans from local North Coast roaster, Eleganza Vietato.
Soak up the friendly village vibe and stretch your legs with some leisurely browsing along Yamba’s main street where you’ll find a strong selection of surf shops, homewares, and fashion stores, including Shack Yamba – a lifestyle store filled with coastal goodies.
Al fresco dining at the Bean Scene Cafe.
Accommodation tip:Yamba Beach Motel – overlooks Main Beach and it’s close to town.
Stop by the Yamba Beach Motel to rest and rejuvenate.
Yamba to Port Macquarie: 3 hours drive
This former convict settlement of Port Macquarie has shaken off the shackles to become one of Australia’s most popular holiday towns.
Port Macquarie highlights
You’re spoilt for choice with top spots for breakfast with a side of ocean views. Start the day with coffee at Salty Crew Kiosk right on the shores of Town Beach or Sandbox Port Macquarie for beachside brunching overlooking Flynn’s Beach.
Stretch your legs with a walk along the iconic Port Macquarie beach break wall or take a dip at one of the many inviting beaches along the coast.
Have a cold brew right on the scenic Town Beach. (Image: Salty Crew Kiosk)
As you wander the city, keep an eye out for the interesting koala sculptures dotted around town. These appealing fibreglass statues have been hand-painted by selected artists and are a hit with kids.
The best spot in town for seafood is Bills Fishhouse & Bar , with a carefully curated sea-to-plate selection featuring local oysters, prawns, whole fish, and seafood platters to share. With breezy interiors and a bustling bar bringing the vacation vibes, it’s a casual and contemporary restaurant you’ll want to seek out.
If you’ve got time for a detour, a winery might not be the most obvious stop on a road trip, but Cassegrain Wines has created a welcoming oasis along the M1 motorway.
Premium drops at Cassegrain Wines.
Kids and dogs can run freely on the grass, refuel with lunch at the on-site restaurant, take a winery tour and grab a bottle of vino to enjoy at your next destination.
Accommodation tip: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat – treehouses that tread lightly on the natural environment without compromising on luxury.
The secret’s out, the harbour city of Newcastle is enjoying an almighty revival and there’s no shortage of places to eat, drink, shop, and stay in the city.
Newcastle highlights
Arrive hungry in Newcastle and head straight to HuBro Cafe to discover the smoothest cold brew coffee you’ll ever find, Wil & Sons is always buzzing, as its breakfast is one of the best.
Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, Newcastle is all about the beaches and a relaxed lifestyle, so take some time to chill out at Newcastle Beach, Bar Beach, or Merewether Beach for sun-soaked downtime.
Try the signature handcrafted brew at the Hubro Cafe.
If you’re an art lover, pop into one of the many independent galleries and keep an eye out for street art at every turn.
Or if history is more your pop quiz genre, explore the past of Newcastle and the unique temporary exhibits at the Newcastle Museum .
Unveil the harbour city’s glorious past at the Newcastle Museum. (Image: Destination NSW)
For a hit of entertainment before you tackle the final hurdle, take in a show at the Civic Theatre, with everything from dance and music to theatre and comedy.
Accommodation tip:The Lucky Hotel – a luxury stay without the price tag.
The Lucky Hotel is a perfect spot to chill and unwind.
Newcastle to Sydney: 2 hours drive
You’re almost there – one last push and you’ll arrive in Australia’s biggest city: Sydney! Organise your arrival time so that you don’t clash with rush hour as the traffic is often busy.
Sydney highlights
Our ultimate guide to Sydney will tell you everything you need to know but if we can drop you off with three recommendations on what to do when you get there outside of the usual contenders, they are:
Enjoy your new freedom with a walk around Circular Quay and soak in the hive of activity surrounding you.
Head to the top of the Sydney Tower Eye , the city’s tallest structure. It’s the ultimate 360° viewpoint to find your bearings, and if you arrive just before sunset, you get to view the world below you in both daylight and at night.
Be charmed by Sydney’s spectacular city skyline. (Image: Destination NSW)
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
Whether you’re away from home or simply don’t want to cook, you can still eat well this Christmas.
Christmas in Australia is synonymous with good weather, good company and great food, but sometimes preparing a big meal can cut into your well-deserved celebrations. This year, a range of restaurants across Australia are making their menus and checking them twice to feed hungry bellies come Christmas Day – so you don’t have to.
The best NSW restaurants open on Christmas Day
Brasserie 1930, Sydney
Cost per person: $275 for adults; $90 (children 12 and under) Open for: Lunch
Dive into Christmas lunch at Brasserie 1930 this year. (Image: Kris Paulsen)
For the second year in a row, Brasserie 1930 will be hosting its Christmas luncheon, and you’re invited. Executive chef Brett Savage has curated a four-course degustation for you to enjoy, with a shared menu spotlighting local produce like Balmain bug and Australian rib eye.
Lunch at Brasserie 1930 will begin at 12 pm and run until 4.30 pm. If, like many others, you’re cast under Capella Sydney‘s spell and don’t want to leave just yet, gift yourself an overnight stay at one of Sydney’s best accommodation offerings.
Anchorage, Port Stephens
Cost per person: $239; $98 (4–12 years) Open for: Lunch and dinner
Choose between Anchorage’s four-course dinner and a dinner buffet. (Image: Destination NSW)
Escaping to Port Stephens over the break? Don’t worry about lunch or dinner on Christmas Day, just head to Anchorage for a festive feast instead . While the day buffet has already sold out, the four-course lunch on the property’s stunning Sunset Deck is a great option, from 12.30 pm–3.30 pm.
The buffet dinner is still open for reservations. Plate up in The Galley Kitchen, where there’ll be a selection of fresh seafood, salads, roasted meats and desserts available from 6pm–8.30pm. Kids under three eat free, too!
Lowe Family Wine Co, Mudgee
Cost per person: $250 (all inclusive) Open for: Lunch
Lowe Family Wine Co is one of Mudgee’s top cellar doors. (Image: Destination NSW)
In NSW’s Central West town of Mudgee, locally loved vineyard and venue Lowe Family Wine Co is hosting an epic festive lunch come Christmas Day. From 1 pm to 5 pm in the Pavilion, devour classic Chrissie dishes by the team from the onsite restaurant Zin House.
Guests are in for more than just good food, though. Lowe Family Wine Co also happens to be one of the region’s best cellar doors, so your meal will be paired with top drops grown right outside. Christmas lunch has never looked so good.
Etheus, Sydney
Price: $299; $99 (children) Open for: Lunch
Feast on authentic Greek fare this Christmas at Etheus. (Image: Steven Woodburn)
Sydneysiders can enjoy Christmas Day by the sea at Etheus in Bondi this year. The new restaurant will be hosting lunch from 11 am, with a unique menu inspired by traditional Greek fare like taramosalata, sheftalies, kritharaki and bougatsa.
Think local seafood, slow-braised lamb, fresh salads and custard-filled filo pastries for dessert. Plus, with one of Sydney’s best beaches just across the road, it’s the perfect opportunity for a post-feed dip with the family.
The Oriana, Orange
Cost per person: $240; $180 (13–17 years); $75 (3–12 years) Open for: Lunch
The Oriana’s all-day drinks buffet will have you feeling festive. (Image: Destination NSW)
Christmas lunch is on The Oriana this year. This Orange institute is hosting lunch with all the trimmings, and the whole family is invited. With an all-day buffet, all-day drinks menu, festive decor and Christmas crackers all round, it’s sure to be very merry and bright!
What’s more, all ticketed guests will have access to The Oriana’s onsite swimming pool until 6 pm, perfect for beating the mid-summer heat. Adults-only and family seating is available both indoors and outside from 12 pm to 4 pm.
Infinity by Mark Best, Sydney
Cost per person: $300-$330; $95 (children) Open for: Lunch and dinner
Dine with viws across Sydney Harbour and beyond at Infinity by Mark Best.
Eat, drink and be merry 81 levels up at Infinity by Mark Best this Christmas Day. Known as one of Sydney’s best restaurants, the menu has recently been revamped courtesy of new Michelin-trained executive chef, Mark Best.
As the space rotates, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Sydney Harbour, east to the Botanic Gardens and west over the mountains. After a glass of Champagne on arrival, dive into a four-course menu with both standard and vegetarian options. Don’t forget your parting festive gift, either!
Roundhouse, Newcastle
Cost per person: $285; $185 (12–17 years); $99 (children under 12) Open for: Lunch
Experience Christmas the Roundhouse way this year. (Image: Destination NSW)
Celebrate Christmas the Roundhouse way this year at the Crystalbrook Kingsley in Newcastle. The lively restaurant goes all out for the festive season, with a plentiful lunch buffet dishing up seafood, salad and roasted meats.
Enjoy a Christmas cocktail on arrival, followed by a two-hour drinks package, all included with your ticket. Finish off with dessert before retreating to your room at this Newie stalwart, arguably one of the city’s best hotels.
Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, Sydney
Cost per person: $415; $210 (4–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Dive into the decadent dessert bar. (Image: Sheraton & Kera Wong Photography)
Overlooking Sydney’s most iconic park, Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park is the perfect place to settle in for a magical bottomless buffet this Christmas. The menu is sure to delight, with multiple food stations featuring festive favourites, as well as a dessert bar.
To make it even more special, there will also be live music and even a visit from Santa Claus himself! Whether you opt to dine in the Grand Ballroom or the main restaurant with park views, the whole family is in for a Christmas to remember.
The best Victorian restaurants open on Christmas Day
Lollo, Melbourne
Cost per person: $295; from $60 (children) Open for: Lunch
Lollo is located within the stunning W Melbourne hotel. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Lollo has got your back this Christmas – as one of Melbourne’s coolest restaurants, you don’t have to worry about being fed well. There will be a brimming seafood station and a roast with all the trimmings, as well as fresh pasta and a huge dessert spread.
Why not elevate the experience with a bottomless beverage package? At just $95 extra per person, you’ll be treated to a Chandon Spritz on arrival, plus bubbles, beer and wine. So forget washing dishes and packing up leftovers, enjoy the festive atmosphere at Lollo instead.
Cliffy’s Emporium, Daylesford
Cost per person: Varied Open for: Breakfast
Make a difference this Christmas at Cliffy’s breakfast fundraiser. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Each year, one of Daylesford’s cosiest cafes does Christmas a little differently. From 8 am to 11 am, Cliffy’s Emporium invites the community down for its annual Christmas fundraiser to raise money for the local Country Fire Authority and its volunteers.
By purchasing a raffle ticket, you’ll support this vital organisation and receive a delicious breakfast in return – from a festive-flavoured barbecue and hot ham stand to freshly brewed coffee and themed cocktails. Christmas is all about giving, so give up your morning to help the local community, and they’ll give back, too.
Arbory Bar & Eatery, Melbourne
Cost per person: From $57.50 Open for: Lunch and dinner
Dine on the Yarra at Arbory Bar & Eatery. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Arbory Bar & Eatery is the place to be for Christmas lunch on the Yarra River. A table reservation for 1–20 guests allows you to pick and choose from an all-day à la carte menu for just $85 per person.
For families, a banquet reservation for 10–40 guests is the way to go. You’ll enjoy a signature set menu, with your choice of share plates or two- and three-course meals, from $57.50 and $69 a head respectively.
The Espy, St Kilda
Cost per person: $195 Open for: Lunch and dinner
Christmas is a laid-back, seaside affair at The Espy.
The Esplanade, known lovingly among locals as ‘The Espy’, is inviting you to join its Christmas celebrations . The hotel’s signature restaurant, Louey’s Bar & Kitchen, will be pumping out share plates of fresh seafood, crispy free-range porchetta, and a dessert to finish.
If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back, The Espy will also be accepting walk-ins throughout Chrissie Day. Pop into the main bar for stone-baked pizzas and seaside-inspired snacks, paired with punchy cocktails and ice-cold beer on tap.
Wickens, The Grampians
Cost per person: $365 Open for: Lunch
Most of Wickens’ produce comes from the onsite kitchen garden. (Image: Visit Victoria)
Skip the kitchen chaos this Christmas and dine at Wickens instead, the Royal Mail Hotel’s signature onsite restaurant backdropped by the Grampians National Park. Indulge in a five-course tasting menu featuring summer produce from the kitchen garden and matched wines from the hotel’s cellar.
Or, treat you and your special someone to the Christmas Package For Two. For $1805 per couple, guests will experience a cosy two-night stay complete with a demi-bottle of Champagne on arrival, Christmas Day lunch at Wickens and lunch (or dinner) at Parker Street Project, the hotel’s second onsite restaurant.
Langlands, Melbourne
Cost per person: $200 Open for: Lunch and dinner
Located within one of Melbourne’s most luxurious hotels, Langlands restaurant at Hyatt Centric is putting on a Christmas feast with a modern twist. Think freshly shucked oysters, zesty tiger prawns, whole-roasted porchetta, meringue roulade and cardamom pannacotta.
Enhance the celebrations with an exclusive Dominique Portet drinks package, including 2.5 hours of free-flowing wines, cocktails and non-alcoholic sips. Too full to take yourself home? Book a room and wake up in the heart of the city on Boxing Day!
The best Queensland restaurants open on Christmas Day
Hurricane’s Bar & Grill, Gold Coast
Cost per person: From $115 Open for: Lunch and dinner
Dine with views over Surfers Paradise beach. (Image: Steven Woodburn)
The newly-renovated Hurricane’s Grill & Bar Surfers Paradise has two sensational shared set menus lined up for Christmas Day this year, featuring dishes from its new culinary offering. Served with bubbles on arrival, guests can choose from a standard set menu ($115 per person) and a premium set menu ($170 per person).
Expect flame-grilled ribs, award-winning steak cuts and fresh seafood starters. Plus, that unmistakable holiday energy that only Surfers Paradise can deliver. A post-lunch splash at one of the region’s best beaches across the road is obligatory.
The Lex, Brisbane
Cost per person: $330; $225 (13–17 years); $95 (4–12 years) Open for: Lunch
The Lex is serving up fresh, seasonal fare this Christmas. (Image: Markus Ravik)
The luxurious W Brisbane in the Queensland capital is hosting Christmas lunch at its place this year! Head to The Lex and you’ll be treated to an indulgent four-course menu, featuring everything from organic lamb carpaccio to locally caught reef fish.
Dessert comes in the form of a white chocolate trifle and clementine curd tart, so be sure to save room. Afterwards, why not stay the night at W Brisbane so you can check out everything Brissy has to offer come Boxing Day?
Boardwalk Social, Cairns
Cost per person: $129; $79 (12–17 years); $49 (children) Open for: Lunch
Cheers to Christmas at Boardwalk Social this year.
It’ll be undeniably hot in Queensland’s north come Christmas, so take pleasure in an array of fresh salads and local seafood on ice. Craving those Christmas classics? Don’t fret, there will also be honey-glazed ham with all the trimmings, plus a dessert bar featuring tropical pavlova, mango cheesecake, gelato and more.
Zuma, Brisbane
Cost per person: $299; $199 (13–17 years); $129 (5–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Experience the festive cheer at Zuma’s Christmas seafood buffet.
Nothing says Aussie Christmas like a classic seafood buffet, and Zuma at voco Brisbane City takes it to the next level. Sit down for lunch featuring everything from Mooloolaba king prawns and Sydney rock oysters to Moreton Bay bugs and blue swimmer crab.
Be sure to save room for dessert, though, with dishes like Christmas pudding, pavlova and lemon meringue tarts on the menu. With riverside views and a glass of bubbles in hand, it’s the perfect setting for a stress-free gathering this Christmas.
Harvest Buffet, Gold Coast
Cost per person: $195; $90 (13–17 years); $50 (5–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Harvest Buffet is located within The Star Gold Coast. (Image: PixelFrame)
Tucked inside The Star Gold Coast, Harvest Buffet transforms into a holiday spectacle on Christmas Day, delivering all-you-can-eat indulgence. Cheers with a glass of sparkling upon arrival before diving into a full seafood buffet that invites you to linger, browse and go back for seconds.
It’s definitely a family affair, with poolside views, indoor-outdoor seating and plenty of bonbons, plus a visit from Santa and presents for young ones all on the cards. The three-hour feast runs from 5.45 pm to 8.45 pm.
The best Tasmanian restaurants open on Christmas Day
Telegraph Hotel, Hobart
Cost per person: $195; $70 (children) Open for: Lunch
Celebrate Christmas at the Telegraph, home to one of Australia’s best rooftop bars.
Perched in the heart of Hobart, the iconic Telegraph Hotel delivers a three-course festive feast that ticks the boxes for family, flavour and fun. With seating times at both 11 am and 2 pm, when you eat is up to you – either way, you’ll sit down to dishes like pork terrine, honey-mustard glazed ham and Christmas pudding.
Guests will also get exclusive access to the Telegraph’s stunning outdoor lounge, which doubles as one of Australia’s best rooftop bars, where pre-lunch drinks will be served paired with views over the city. Cheers to that!
Grain of the Silos, Launceston
Cost per person: $199 Open for: Lunch
Experience a farm-to-plate ethos this Christmas at Grain of the Silos. (Image: Jess Bonde)
Grain of the Silos is a cultural hub that prides itself on a farm-to-plate ethos and heroing local Tasmanian produce. This Christmas, you can get a taste by heading to the Launceston institute, which is hosting an intimate lunch to celebrate the occasion.
Executive chef Thomas Pirker and his team will be working their magic to create delectable dishes for groups large and small. The traditional three-course menu features shared-style plates of foccacia, tagliatelle and roast beef, with a chocolate-caramel tart for dessert.
Altitude Restaurant, Cradle Mountain
Cost per person: $130; $65 (4–12 years) Open for: Lunch and dinner
Altitude is setting the bar high this Christmas. (Image: Supplied Courtesy of RACT Destinations)
Nestled in an enclave of Cradle Mountain Hotel in the Central Highlands region, Altitude Restaurant is setting the bar high this Christmas . Open for both lunch and dinner, you’ll be treated to a festive set menu featuring the finest produce from local farmers and small businesses.
If you’re in the area, why not visit the mountain itself, too? There are plenty of picturesque walks and hikes that offer the chance to spot quolls, wombats, echidnas and more. Thanks to Tassie’s cool temperatures and alpine climate, it won’t be too hot either!
Hadley’s Orient Hotel, Hobart
Cost per person: $290 (all inclusive); $120 (5–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Sit down to a buffet-style spread at Hadley’s Orient Hotel. (Image: Dearna Bond)
Pop by the heritage-listed Hadley’s Orient Hotel in Hobart this Christmas and you’ll be treated to an all-inclusive lunch that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied. The buffet-style spread will have everything from charcuterie, antipasto and oysters to ocean trout, housemade pies and herb-roasted lamb.
You’d be remiss to skip dessert, where you can pick from Christmas classics like pudding and trifle, or opt for something fresh like summer fruit, petit fours and pavlova. Seatings are from 12.30 pm, giving you plenty of time to open presents before lunch.
The best WA restaurants open on Christmas Day
Hearth, Perth
Cost per person: $299 Open for: Lunch and dinner
Hearth champions fresh, local and seasonal produce.
If you’re from WA’s capital, you’ve heard of Hearth – everyone knows it’s one of the best places to eat in Perth. What makes it even better? It’s open on Christmas Day. Settle into its sleek dining room and indulge in a five-course set menu curated to hero festive flavours and fresh produce.
The distinct menu is hallmarked by local ingredients like Shark Bay scallops and Skull Island prawns, plus a burnt coconut pavlova paired with quandong, desert lime and Geraldton wax for dessert. Add the $185 wine pairing to elevate your Chrissie experience.
Tradewinds Hotel, Fremantle
Cost per person: $230; $85 (children under 12) Open for: Lunch
Enjoy the Tradewind Hotel’s outdoor spaces this Christmas.
Little ones can look forward to a visit from Santa, as well as a range of festive activities that are sure to keep them entertained for hours. Weather permitting, sit outside to enjoy your meal alongside live music and stunning views across the Swan River.
Songbird, Perth
Cost per person: From $270 Open for: Lunch
Songbird offers sweeping views of Perth’s skyline.
Elevated above the city’s skyline, Songbird, sister venue to Hearth at The Ritz-Carlton Perth, brings a breezy vibe to Christmas Day lunch . Think refreshing cocktails and a platter loaded with local seafood, from Abrolhos Islands octopus to freshly shucked oysters.
Whether you’re toasting with bubbles or simply soaking up the glamour, this is the kind of celebration that feels both elevated and effortless. With sweeping views across the CBD, it’s no surprise Songbird is often hailed as one of the best rooftop bars in Perth.
Cichetti, Broome
Cost per person: Varied Open for: Dinner
Do Christmas Broome-style at Cichetti this year.
Nestled just steps from the golden sands of Cable Beach, Cichetti serves up a modern Italian escape fitting of its location this Christmas. Come evening, the restaurant transforms into a cosy coastal celebration, with a twinkling ambience and thoughtful service.
You’ll devour housemade pasta, fresh seafood and large plates designed for sharing with family and friends. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the sun and toast to the festive season, Broome-style.
The best SA restaurants open on Christmas Day
Ela, Adelaide
Cost per person: $179; $125 (13–17 years); $79 (children 12 and under) Open for: Lunch
Ela is located within Adelaide’s Hotel Alba. (Image: Hotel Alba)
Tucked into Adelaide’s sunny South Terrace precinct, the Med-inspired Ela at Hotel Alba invites you to sip and soirée your way into Christmas Day this year. Think a relaxed but refined three-course lunch, with a drink on arrival and free-flowing bubbles for the toast-worthy moments.
When the big day rolls around, this is less formal sit-down and more laid-back fun, perfect for a merry gathering of family and friends. Lean into the long-lunch vibe until you’re ready to head back home for a well-deserved Chrissie Day nap.
Serafino Wines, McLaren Vale
Cost per person: $269; $79 (3–17 years) Open for: Lunch
Do Christmas the Serafino way this year. (Image: Le Lam/Adelaide Food Central)
For some, there’s no better way to spend Christmas Day than surrounded by rolling hills and gum trees, sipping on a glass of wine. If this sounds like you, then Christmas lunch at Serafino Wines is calling your name.
Sit down to a decadent five-course degustation with vineyard views, paired perfectly with a 3.5-hour premium beverage package. Of course, the list is full of Serafino’s award-winning wines, considered some of McLaren Vale’s top drops.
Mount Lofty House, Adelaide Hills
Cost per person: $399; $307 (13–17 years); $159 (4–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Christmas is a cosy affair at Mount Lofty House. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
Perched in the picturesque Adelaide Hills, Mount Lofty House offers a Christmas experience that fuses sweeping views with festive fare. Held at onsite restaurant Piccadilly Panorama , you’ll find a menu teeming with fresh, locally sourced seafood. Think Coffin Bay oysters, SA prawns and Kangaroo Island crayfish.
Dessert comes in the form of traditional Christmas pudding, pavlova stacked with summer fruit and a salted caramel tart made with 58 per cent dark chocolate crémeux. Too full to head home? Book a room for a truly elevated experience.
The best NT restaurants open on Christmas Day
Wharf One, Darwin
Cost per person: $195; $90 (5–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Sit down for a long lunch full of flavour and fun at Wharf One. (Image: Tourism NT)
Dine on the Darwin waterfront this Christmas Day at Wharf One . A chef-prepared buffet will leave you overwhelmed for choice, with everything from oysters and charcuterie to slow-cooked beef brisket and roast turkey.
With drinks on arrival and all the trimmings to match, this Darwin favourite will have you celebrating for more reasons than one this Christmas Day. Lunch will run from 11.30 am to 3 pm, leaving ample room for a waterfront stroll come sunset.
DoubleTree by Hilton, Alice Springs
Cost per person: $229; $99 (13–17 years); $74 (6–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Hilton celebrate the big day with good food and great company. (Image: Tourism NT)
If you’re in the heart of Australia this festive season, you can still eat out on Christmas Day in Alice Springs/Mparntwe. Namely, at the gorgeous DoubleTree by Hilton, at its festive luncheon from 12:.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
The gala buffet is truly extravagant – with artisan breads and dips, a delicatessen, seafood bar, carvery, eight salad selections and a mouth-watering dessert selection, you’ll be near bursting. Surrounded by blue gums, sunset-reflecting escarpments and the red dirt synonymous with Alice, it’ll be a Chrissie to remember.
DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Darwin, Darwin
Cost per person: $215; $130 (13–17 years); $85 (6–12 years) Open for: Lunch
Gather your favourites and toast to the season at Hilton Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)
Much like its sister hotel in Alice Springs, DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade Darwin is welcoming you this Christmas for its lavish luncheon. The hotel’s chefs have curated a divine degustation just for you, combining traditional Christmas flavours with fresh, Australian ingredients.
Think confit duck, Christmas ham, honey-glazed turkey, 12-hour slow-cooked beef, grilled burramundi and 15 dessert options, all paired with free-flowing beverages of choice. And that’s just a tasty teaser – you’ll have to come along for the rest.
The best ACT restaurants open on Christmas Day
Restaurant Two14, Canberra
Cost per person: $200; $35 (children) Open for: Lunch
Make this Christmas lunch one to savour at Restaurant Two14. (Image: VisitCanberra)
Located at Canberra’s luxurious Deco Hotel in the hip suburb of Braddon, Restaurant Two14 will happily serve you this Christmas Day. The talented team will be cooking up a lovely five-course lunch full of Christmas delights with an Italian influence.
Take a seat in one of Canberra’s best restaurants and let head chef Federico Pitasi take care of the rest. He’ll be delivering seasonal flavours, premium ingredients, and even a complimentary glass of Prosecco right to your table, from 12.30 pm onwards.
Marble & Grain, Canberra
Cost per person: $209; $40 (children) Open for: Lunch
Share the love (and food) with family and friends this Christmas. (Image: Getty/Knape)
Available for both 12 pm and 1 pm sittings, Christmas lunch at Marble & Grain is all about indulgence done right. A flavourful five-course menu has your name on it, showcasing the Canberra steakhouse’s signature paddock-to-plate focus with perfectly paired wines to match.
The usually dark and polished interior will be decked out in true Christmas fashion, transforming the moody space into a warm and festive haven. So gather your favourite people, bring the holiday spirit and savour a long, laughter-filled lunch.
Louis, Canberra
Cost per person: $275; $115 (children under 12) Open for: Lunch
Known for its spectacular cuisine, Louis is dishing up a four-course festive menu for those seeking a hearty meal in the capital this Christmas. Let culinary director Ben Willis and head chef Sun Hwa Jang lead you down a tantalising path of flavour with their truly memorable cooking.
Relish in classic prawn cocktails, confit ocean trout, roast beef fillet, glazed pumpkin and a white chocolate and strawberry pavlova for dessert. Located within the stylish Hotel Realm, it’s the perfect excuse for a staycation in the city.
