12 excellent Alice Springs restaurants to try now

Leah McLennan Leah McLennan
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Quirky cafes, bars and high-end restaurants boasting jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding ranges are just some of the attractions in Alice Springs.

Choose from wild ingredients, such as barramundi and kangaroo flavoured with Indigenous spices and berries, or feast on diverse international fare. For those looking to dine and drink, here’s our comprehensive guide to Alice Springs restaurants.

1. Saltbush

On the flash side of town inside the DoubleTree by Hilton, a charming night out can be had at Saltbush, an upmarket restaurant renowned for its innovative approach to contemporary Australian cuisine.

pouring sauce over fish at Saltbush, Alice Springs
The whole-baked barramundi is a real showstopper. (Image: Tourism NT)

The duck confit and whole-baked Northern Territory barramundi are the stars of the menu. It’s even better when enjoyed in one of the private dining alcoves with low, soft-lit lighting and super comfy upholstered chairs.

pouring sauce over a dish at Saltbush, Alice Springs
Dig into contemporary Australian cuisine at Saltbush. (Image: Tourism NT)

2. Hanuman

Chef Jimmy Shu’s Hanuman at DoubleTree by Hilton is celebrated for its exceptional Indian and Thai dishes, offering an enticing dining experience that combines bold flavours with a refined presentation.

a spread of food on the table at Hanuman
Expect bold flavours and an innovative dining experience. (Image: Tourism NT)

Warm up with its fabulous tom yum soup and tuck into the soft shell crab in a red curry paste and mouth-wateringly good butter chicken. Make sure you leave space for dessert – think black rice brulee or kulfi ice cream.

a close-up of food at Hanuman, Alice Springs
Find a fusion of Indian and Thai cuisine on the menu. (Image: Tourism NT)

3. Bella Alice

For a satisfying Italian feed, look no further than Bella in the Todd Mall, a charming café that transitions into a sophisticated restaurant by night. All the pasta and pizzas are made from scratch and topped with fresh ingredients. For fancy customers, there are some fancy ingredients to add to your pizza such as chilli honey, basil pesto drops and truffle oil. Italian coffee aficionados will adore the custom-made Segafredo Zanetti coffee blend.

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4. Tali

If you love a mix of contemporary Australian and Asian cuisine, then head to the elegant Tali restaurant at the Crown Plaza property next to the casino.

a hand holding a spoon while pouring sauce over a dish at Tali, Alice Springs
Book the premium fine dining experience at Tali. (Image: Tourism NT)

Appealing dishes such as local barramundi fillets and eye fillets celebrate Territory produce. This dining haven features an open-concept kitchen, inviting you to watch the chefs at work and the dramatic play of flames as they prepare the sizzling dishes.

a table-top view of food on the table at Tali, Alice Springs
Feast on quality Northern Territory produce. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. The Locals

Tapas and gin? Yes please. Hidden away in the Todd Mall, The Locals serves up breakfast and lunch, and tapas and creative cocktails in the afternoon in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

a dish and cocktail drink on the table at The Locals
Dine from morning to afternoon at The Locals.

If you’re feeling like catching a flick, make a beeline for the adjacent Alice Springs Cinema.

6. Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar

On the main street, Epilogue is an all-day eatery with live music each week in the rooftop bar and excellent pub food, pizzas, craft beers and cocktails.

It’s a haven for night owls and foodies alike, with live music adding to the ambience. You can also visit the café for breakfast and lunch or just for a great quality coffee, smoothie or fresh juice.

two plates of food on the table at Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar
The all-day eatery is a great spot to dine or stay for a drink on the rooftop bar. (Image: Tourism NT/Christopher Nayna)

7. Page 27 Café

Page 27 in the Todd Mall wouldn’t be out of place in a Melbourne laneway. Sticky chai tea or iced honey matcha anyone? Their brekky and lunch menus are full of showstoppers such as crumbed salmon hash with edamame beans, chia seed pudding with poached pears, pan-fried barramundi on mushroom risotto, and lamb empanadas with citrus salsa.

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8. Casa Nostra

On the edge of the town just over the causeway of the Todd River, Casa Nostra offers a slice of Italy in the heart of the outback, with a menu that features classic dishes made with love and authentic Italian flair.

Casa Nostra Italian fare
Dine authentic Italian pasta at Casa Nostra. (Image: Tourism NT/Christopher Nayna)

For its delicious lasagna, moreish panna cotta and relaxed atmosphere, many Alice Springs locals will rightfully recommend Casa Nostra.

Inside Casa Nostra offers in Alice Springs.
The restaurant offers a slice of Italy in Alice Springs.

9. Roberto’s Pizza

If you feel like a takeaway of delicious meaty pizza and garlic bread then head to Roberto’s Pizza. You’ll find this no-frill joint on Todd Street near the mall and no need to rush – it’s open until 3am on weekends.

10. Gillen Club

For a family-friendly night out, Gillen Club offers a wide range of dining options, from casual pub meals to buffet dinners. Kids will love the shaded outdoor playground and sandpit.

11. Rocky’s Pizza & Pasta

A five-minute drive from town in the suburb of Larapinta, Rocky’s Pizza & Pasta is a beloved institution in Alice Springs, serving up pizzas with a crispy, thin crust and a generous topping of flavourful ingredients.

12. Tinh & Lan Vietnamese Restaurant

If you’re a fan of Vietnamese food, then jump in the car and make a beeline 15 minutes out of town to Alice Springs’ only Vietnamese restaurant – Tinh & Lan. Sizzling pork, fried prawns and fresh bok choy are among the tastiest dishes. This restaurant is a short walk from the gorgeous Sturt Desert Pea House, a rural property that sleeps eight on the outskirts of Alice Springs.

For more incredible ways to explore, read our travel guide to Alice Springs.

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Leah McLennan
Leah McLennan is a freelance writer based in Darwin. She was a journalist in Sydney for over a decade and counts her time as travel editor for Australian Associated Press as one of the highlights of her career. From exploring remote campsites in the Top End with her family, to seeking out new art galleries in faraway cities, she’ll grab an adventurous or arty travel experience within her reach.
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8 experiences to restart and inspire your senses for 2026

    Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
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    Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

    If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

    As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

    1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

    Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory
    Watch the stars come out over five courses.

    Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

    It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

    Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

    2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

    Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience
    Learn stories of the Red Centre at Karrke. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ 75vibes)

    The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

    On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

    3. Kungkas Can Cook

    Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap
    Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

    The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

    Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

    4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

    woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)
    See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

    Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

    Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

    5. Pudakul

    Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours
    Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

    Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

    This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

    6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

    Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
    Spot the wildlife of the billabong. (Image: Tourism & Events NT)

    Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

    Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

    7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

    artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin
    Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

    A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

    Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

    8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

    woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls)
    Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

    There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

    On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

    Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.