The Best Restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

Blending creativity with some of the most nutrient-dense produce on the planet, the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast simply dazzle.

Pristine beaches and year-round sunshine are indisputable drawcards, but my favourite part of the Sunshine Coast is the food. Home to some of Australia’s best restaurants and cafes, the Queensland region is a subtropical playground of volcanic-enriched soil, so seasonal produce is big, juicy and always sourced locally. Whether I’m craving a breakfast of farm-fresh eggs and greens, crustaceans for lunch, or choice cuts with vibrant veg for dinner, restaurants on the Sunshine Coast nail it. Here, my favourites right now.

In short

It’s a tough call, but if you can only eat at one of the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast, make it Spirit House. The lush tropical garden setting is entirely unique (and breathtaking) and don’t even get me started on their beautiful plating.

The shortlist

Great for special occasions: Spirit House
Fine dining gem: Mapleton Public House
Best views: Rickys River Bar & Restaurant
Best coffee: Fellowship Drive Cafe
Hottest new opening: Playa Mexican

Restaurants for breakfast

The Sunshine Coast knows how to start the day right. From Caloundra to Noosa, artisinal coffee roasters, deliciously dressed plating and serene settings awaken the senses to a brand-new day.

1. Fellowship Drive Cafe

a close-up of food at Fellowship Drive Cafe, Sunshine Coast — Tuck into generously plated brunch meals at Fellowship Drive Cafe.

First, coffee. While the bean scene is strong in this corner of the world, I’m a sucker for Flying West Coffee Roasters’ blends after falling head over heels at its Eumundi Markets coffee cart some years ago. The team launched Fellowship Drive Cafe in 2024, where I now find my consistently smooth (a feat for any multi-barista operation), caffeine hit that’s always heated to perfection (no burnt tongue ever). There’s also affordable meals like the confit flat mushroom plate with cashew cheese, dukkha and pesto on charcoal sourdough, baked at nearby Ten Acres Sourdough in Ninderry. I also love a slice of the beetroot feta loaf which mixes in parmesan for maximised deliciousness.

Cuisine: Cafe

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Local

Location: 9 Fellowship Dr, Doonan

2. The Coolum Social

hearty meals at The Coolum Social, Sunshine Coast — The Coolum Social highlights the region’s seasonal produce with its vibrant and hearty meals. (Image: Ariana Gillrie)

Flowing with Instagram-friendly vibes is The Coolum Social , a Sunshine Coast cafe dishing up hearty meals and great coffee using Sydney’s Gabriel Coffee. Focused on transforming the region’s seasonal produce into edible art, the team love playing with whatever’s delicious at the time. Expect classics like chilli eggs and bacon and egg rolls alongside more exotic creations like bao buns and poke bowls. Craving a juice? I love their bashed-up brews turning tropical fruits into frappes, milkshakes and smoothies, while their just-juice options invite create-your-own creativity.

Cuisine: Cafe

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Warm and friendly

Location: 26 Birtwill St, Coolum Beach

3. Tollys

a breakfast plate at Tollys, Sunshine Coast — Indulge into a heartwarming brekkie at Tollys. (Image: Snippet Marketing Media)

Fuel an adventure through the famous Eumundi Markets with brekkie at Tollys , located in the old Bella 101 site. Situated right across the road from the weekly hot ticket (which opens twice weekly, actually), this Sunshine Coast restaurant was built inside a beautiful historical building known as The Old Bakery. Find a seat on the deck overlooking the street as dishes span seasonal fritters, French toast with addictive berry coulis, avocado smash with a poached egg and other AM classics.

Cuisine: Cafe

Average price: $-$$

Atmosphere: Chilled out

Location: 101 Memorial Dr, Eumundi

4. Moffat Beach Brewing Co.

the exterior of Moffat Beach Brewing Co. — The beloved beachside brewery is also open for breakfast. (Image: Rix Rix Photography)

While it may seem unusual to have breakfast in a brewery, Moffat Beach Brewing Co. , just metres from the sand, is such a vibe. Gaze over the ocean (a bench seat by the street is my favourite spot) as breakfast classics, including a bacon and egg burger and avocado on toast, speedily roll out of the kitchen.

Cuisine: Cafe

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Breezy

Location: 12 Seaview Tce, Moffat Beach

Restaurants for lunch

Swap out caffeine for carafes as the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast for lunch take advantage of brilliant coastal views, locally caught delicacies (including the region’s famed seafood) and laidback wine time.

5. Mapleton Public House

the exterior of Mapleton Public House, Sunshine Coast — Mapleton Public House serves as a pub, bar and bistro in one. (Image: Stories by Ash)

Totally unassuming at first glance, Mapleton Public House oozes understated charm. I walk up a set of stairs from a carpark in the sleepy hinterland town to find, admittedly, more of that casual vibe before the scene switches gears via standout hospitable wait staff who bring warmth and joy to every interaction. My table on the wraparound deck overlooks the main road down low while breathtaking mountains paint a stunning scene out yonder. I’m blown away by the ‘Buffalo carrots’ fried in buttermilk and hot sauce, a collection of crunchy, chubby flavour hits that burst with spicy caramelised goodness. The slow-cooked short rib is similarly fabulous with garlic potato cream and house-made onion rings. It’s the dedication to detail in this place that shines, an all-round winner that technically serves as a pub (there’s a bar and bistro seating inside) but refines Sunshine Coast dining with every seating.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Casual cool

Location: 2 Flaxton Dr, Mapleton

6. Bistro C

beachfront dining at Bistro C, Noosa Main Beach — Nab a spot by the beach overlooking Laguna Bay. (Image: Bistro C)

I’m one face in a thick daily crowd waiting for a table at Bistro C , but I’m not deterred. Offering uninterrupted Noosa Main Beach views and intoxicating holiday atmosphere, it’s a Sunshine Coast restaurant that never grows tired. Breakfast after a morning dip is the norm, but I’m here at lunch during my latest trip and I’m ready to party. Overlooking Laguna Bay, I indulge in the crispy skin barramundi which melts in the mouth. Seared local scallops are equally soft and flavoursome, before the triple cream brie fondue I eyed off when I first opened the menu finally makes its way into my belly. Delicious. My children are sorted too thanks to a kids’ menu offering the likes of ‘I Want Macca’s’ (a chicken slider with chips), ‘I Love You Mum’ (spaghetti bolognaise) and ‘I Don’t Know’ (calamari and chips). The staff here are as fun-loving and entertaining as those kids titles, making for guaranteed good times.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Vibrant

Location: 49 Hastings St, Noosa Heads

7. BASK Restaurant

the dining space inside BASK Restaurant, Sunshine Coast — BASK Restaurant’s popularity called for a bigger space in Peregian Beach.

Peregian Beach’s favourite long lunch spot is BASK Restaurant , located in the beach town’s vibrant centre. The paddock-to-plate eatery moved into the village after a successful run in Eumundi where it originally opened its doors in 2021. Once word of Chef Jack Madden’s culinary flair caught on, demand grew and so the team found a larger space elsewhere. The result is flawless; a European-inspired feast that flows to al fresco tables from a warm, stylish fit-out. The food, spanning fresh sea catches and the finest seasonal meats, such as quail with roasted chestnuts and foraged mushrooms, is reliably excellent.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Refined

Location: Shop 3-4/218 David Low Way, Peregian Beach

8. Brouhaha Maleny

inside the Brouhaha Maleny, Sunshine Coast — Grab a relaxed bite at Brouhaha Brewery. (Image: Mark Fitz/Tourism and Events Queensland)

Another great spot for a chilled-out meal is Brouhaha Brewery in Maleny. The beer is outstanding, renowned throughout the state, and the food menu is equally crafty. Think pork scratchings, sourced locally, with apple sauce, crumbed fish cakes, a Mooloolaba prawn ceviche and about half a dozen woodfired pizzas.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 6/39 Coral St, Maleny

9. Rickys River Bar & Restaurant

a couple dining at Rickys River Bar & Restaurant, Sunshine Coast — Soak up bright and airy vibes at this refined fine diner. (Image: Manuel Freudenmann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

My favourite Sunshine Coast restaurant on the water, Rickys River Bar & Restaurant is such a special spot. Located on the Noosa River and featuring its own jetty plus sparkling water views from every angle, the refined fine diner is a special occasion affair – my heels don’t feel out of place at all. Request a table by the window (no guarantees) where the water shimmers and sea birds soar to the wetlands lying beyond. I did seafood for starters (the spanner crab spaghettini with garlic and chilli) before diving into a heavier main (the 200g eye fillet with generous sides) and relished every second of it. I also toasted the end of the afternoon with extended drinks in the bar area, a moody lounge where martinis roll past sunset.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Elegant

Location: 2 Quamby Place, Noosa Heads

10. Warrior Restaurant & Bar

a smoky cocktail at Warrior Restaurant & Bar, — Warrior Restaurant & Bar has perfected cocktails, such as The Bosco, Noosa Valley vodka infused with maple wood smoke. (Image: Supplied)

The Crocodile Hunter Lodge’s fine dining eatery is a sophisticated homage to native ingredients and locally sourced supplies. Engaging the Sunshine Coast’s finest farmers and suppliers to nail an inventive menu that’s super generously plated, Warrior Restaurant & Bar embraces its natural surroundings which flow with native flora and fauna. I notice more non-hotel guests at lunch and dinner than breakfast, which helps transform the in-house hotel restaurant into a dining destination on its own accord. Ask for a table by the window (they can be requested) to overlook the infinity swimming pool and resident kangaroos and emu, and I highly recommend the slow-braised beef rendang curry with cardamom rice as the meat is melt-in-your-mouth perfect and the sauce is thick and rich. I also really loved the warrigal greens and broccolini with toasted almonds and house-made lemon myrtle salt, too.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Tranquil

Location: 88 Irwin Rd, Beerwah

11. Mooloolaba Fish Market

Devour a seafood platter fresh from Mooloolaba Fish Market.

With the sun shining and waves crashing, lunch al fresco is always a good idea. I love the Mooloolaba Fish Market where parcels of fish and chips are collected before they’re devoured overlooking the beach town’s Spit. Crumbed, battered, grilled, it’s all good as local catches span whiting, barramundi, swordfish, snapper, yellowfin tuna, salmon and more. Meanwhile, Pluto Pups and Chicko Rolls deliver the nostalgia, while natural and Kilpatrick oysters dial up the decadence.

Cuisine: Takeaway seafood

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 201 Parkyn Pde, Mooloolaba

Restaurants for dinner

As the sun sinks and the Sunshine Coast’s glorious coastal and hinterland views melt away, all lights shine upon the region’s slick hospitality, beautiful dining spaces and more of those seasonally led delights.

12. Spirit House

two women dining in a tropical garden by the river at Spirit House, Sunshine Coast — Spirit House is set within tranquil tropical gardens. (Image: Jesse Lindemann/Tourism and Events Queensland)

You can’t talk about the best places to eat on the Sunshine Coast without mentioning Spirit House . Set within tranquil tropical gardens, this iconic restaurant, bar and cooking school is really on another level. This is fresh and bold Asian-inspired cuisine unlike anything else in the region as a set menu soars you through far-flung corners of the continent, lighting up plates with Picasso-like artistry. Signature creations include whole fishes, like a Humpty Doo barramundi, prepared with beautifully blended sauces and seasonally charged flavours, as well as the mango-braised pork belly on the entrée menu. But honestly, it’s flat-out excellent every step of the way.

Cuisine: Asian

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Fancy

Location: 20 Ninderry Rd, Yandina

13. Ethos at Alsahwa Estate

a plate of oysters being served at Ethos at Alsahwa Estate — Tuck into plump oysters plucked straight from the ocean. (Image: Ethos at Alsahwa Estate)

Another new addition to the Sunshine Coast dining scene, Ethos at Alsahwa Estate opened its doors in June 2025. A light-flooded dining dream located within the growing agricultural tourism operation that spreads across 30 acres of lush hinterland, the Sunshine Coast restaurant focuses on farm-to-table plates with Mediterranean-inspired flair. Think fish carpaccio with smoked bone, mushroom cream and native lime and a chicken Maryland with pumpkin saffron cheesecake.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Average price: $$$-$$$$

Atmosphere: Homely

Location: 20 Rifle Range Rd, Palmwoods

14. Playa Mexican

squeezing lemon into a dish at Playa Mexican, Sunshine Coast — Playa Mexican brings authentic Mexican cuisine to Bokarina Beach.

Visiting the Sunshine Coast after September 2025? Drop into Playa Mexican , a highly anticipated eatery bringing authentic Mexican cuisine to Bokarina beach. House-made tortillas and the team’s signature dish, boneless BBQ chicken with pineapple butter, pickled pineapple and scallion oil, plus yummy margaritas shaken with mezcal, will no doubt attract the cool kids in droves.

Cuisine: Mexican

Location: Corner Bokarina Blvd and Longboard Pde, Bokarina

As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

As southern Australia’s weather starts to cool – the frost visiting every morning and the evening chill descending at dusk – you might reach for your thickest cable knit sweater and warmest blanket. But why not reach for your suitcase and sunglasses and book a ticket to Noosa in winter instead?

Sure, it’s a favourite destination for sun-seeking summer travellers. But as locals will readily tell you, winter is the best time to uncover hidden gems across the region – not only is the weather mild and enjoyable, but the beaches and hinterland are picture-perfect, too. You might even spot a whale or two if you visit from June to September.

Discover how to spend your winter surrounded by Noosa’s stunning natural beauty.

Noosa Rivermouth And Main Beach — Make the most of mild temperatures of Noosa in winter.

Where to eat in Noosa

Known for its dynamic cuisine, Noosa is an overflowing foodie destination. Whatever your tastebuds fancy, the region has it covered.

There are the classic eateries, like lively beachfront Bistro C (try the caramelised pork belly), popular Season Restaurant on Hastings Street (order the spanner crab pasta) and stylish Locale (our pick is the slow roasted White Pyrenees lamb shoulder).

There are also chic new restaurants offering tasty dishes, like the Mediterranean fare at Pelis , Cantonese-inspired dim sums at Sabrosa , organic sourdough pizza from El Capitano , traditional recipes and tequila at Dona Cocina Mexicana and modern Italian-Australian creations from Lucio’s Marina .

diners at Lucio's Marina in noosa in winter — Taste modern Italian-Australian at Lucio’s Marina. (Image: Nickolas May)

Where to stay in Noosa

Once you’re full, you’ll need to find a place to lay your head, and Noosa has no shortage of accommodation options. From five-star resorts with palm-fringed lagoon pools to self-catered apartments and family-friendly budget options, stays in the heart of the action on Hastings Street to sleeping steps from the beach or in more spacious and relaxed accommodation along the river, Noosa offers something for everyone.

There’s the laid-back luxury of Netanya Noosa overlooking Noosa Main Beach, which offers studios, two- and three-bedroom apartments, or the family-oriented Ivory Palms Resort in Noosaville, with its three pools, jumping pillow and playground. Guests also love the versatile RACV Noosa Resort and its numerous pools, waterslides and tennis courts.

For a wildlife experience, hop on a ferry and travel to the eco-friendly Senses Noosa North Shore . Surrounded by 16 hectares of native bushland, the beautiful architect-designed property blends indoor and outdoor living and offers three stunning pools and a spa. Guests can even spot kangaroos and rainbow lorikeets from shaded verandahs.

a beachfront swimming pool at Netanya Noosa — Gaze over Noosa Main Beach at Netanya Noosa. (Image: Lumea Photo)

Things to do on land

There’s no denying it, the main beach – with its creamy-coloured sand, consistent breaks and epic coastline views – is Noosa’s shining star attraction. Bordering this is the wildly popular Noosa National Park, where you can explore over 15 kilometres of walking tracks, including options like the Coastal Walk, Tanglewood Walk and Palm Grove Walk.

A short stroll away is busy Hastings Street, which is full of life during the day and long into the night. Enjoy a little shopping, a late brunch, dinner out and a cocktail as the sun goes down.

Climb onto a fully electric tuk tuk with Noosa e-TukTuk to get an insider’s tour of the region. For a more in-depth exploration, book a bespoke tour with Joel’s Journeys and head to the lush green hinterland, or discover the rugged landscapes of Great Sandy National Park with Sunny Jeeps to spend the day with the wind in your hair and sand underfoot.

woman enjoying the view after hiking through Noosa National Park, noosa in winter — Take in views of the beautiful Noosa Hinterland. (Image: Demy Gavin)

Things to do in the water

Noosa isn’t just about the beach, the national parks and shopping; one of the most popular ways to embrace winter is to explore on water.

You could brave the waves on a surfboard, explore the languid Noosa River on a stand-up paddleboard or even head to the Noosa Everglades for a day adventuring on a boat, canoe or kayak.

Enjoy the winter sunsets aboard the newly launched HV Stillwater , a luxury, hybrid-powered catamaran that glides silently along Noosa’s waterways. You can also book a table on the only floating restaurant on the river – Noosa Cruiser – and dig into freshly cooked cuisine.

For a little more adventure, head out with Kingfisher Safari Co and cruise around the Noosa River Inlet and Lake Cootharaba. Or search for whales and dolphins (from June to September) on a small charter boat tour with WhaleSongs Noosa ; with an onboard researcher to explain what you’re seeing, as well as a hydrophone, you’ll be able to listen to the haunting songs of some of the world’s biggest animals while enjoying a winter’s day in the sun.

women kayaking through Noosa everglades noosa in winter — Explore the gorgeous Noosa Everglades. (Image: Emily Redfern)

Book your winter getaway in Noosa at visitnoosa.com.au.

14 of the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast for a long feast

Blending creativity with some of the most nutrient-dense produce on the planet, the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast simply dazzle.

In short

The shortlist

Restaurants for breakfast

1. Fellowship Drive Cafe

2. The Coolum Social

3. Tollys

4. Moffat Beach Brewing Co.

Restaurants for lunch

5. Mapleton Public House

6. Bistro C

7. BASK Restaurant

8. Brouhaha Maleny

9. Rickys River Bar & Restaurant

10. Warrior Restaurant & Bar

11. Mooloolaba Fish Market

Restaurants for dinner

12. Spirit House

13. Ethos at Alsahwa Estate

14. Playa Mexican

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As the cooler weather rolls in, head to this popular Sunshine Coast destination to enjoy stunning natural beauty, culinary wonders and mild temperatures.

Where to eat in Noosa

Where to stay in Noosa

Things to do on land

Things to do in the water