28 of the best Cairns restaurants to dine at now

Looking for a bite to eat? From cheap eats to fine dining, make a booking at one of these top Cairns restaurants.

Whether it’s waterfront dining serving locally sourced flavours that pique your interest, fresh seafood straight off the trawler, or shared tapas bites with rooftop panoramic views, Cairns in Tropical North Queensland is home to an array of fabulous places to eat and drink at.

Feast your eyes on our pick of the best restaurants to dine at in Cairns right now.

The shortlist

Best seafood: Prawn Star Cairns
Best waterfront dining: Ochre Restaurant
Best entertainment: Salt House
Best outdoor dining: Nu Nu Restaurant
Best cocktails: Salsa Bar & Grill

Cairns City

1. The Lobby Bar & Kitchen

a close-up shot of food, The Lobby Bar & Kitchen, Cairns — Indulge in comforting classics at The Lobby Bar & Kitchen.

There’s a sunny vibe inside and out at The Lobby Bar & Kitchen in the Sunshine Tower Hotel, with a ‘Paradiso’ theme that echoes throughout. Expect a pared-back coastal palette with timber tones and seating that ranges from beautifully upholstered banquettes to more intimate tables for two.

The Lobby Bar & Kitchen welcomes hotel guests and visitors for breakfast and dinner, with the choice of a buffet and a la carte. There’s also a menu of comforting classics. Think hand-stretched pizzas and signature smoked mains like Chipotle and Plum Smoked Pork Ribs. What also makes dining at The Lobby Bar & Kitchen a treat is the friendly and welcoming staff, who hail from all around the world. Sit at a table by the pool where there is plenty of shade from palm trees and frangipanis.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Sunny vibes

Location: 136 Sheridan St, Cairns City

2. Corea Corea

With a stand-out reputation amongst locals and tourists alike, Corea Corea serves up tasty and authentic Korean cuisine at value for money. Located upstairs in Orchid Plaza, dishes include spicy pork, chicken, tofu, stir-fried seafood, beef ribs, hot pots, soups and vegetarian options.

Cuisine: Korean

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Authentic

Location: Level 1, Orchid Plaza, 58 Lake St, Cairns City

3. Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook

tacos at Boardwalk Social by Crystalbrook — Hit up Boardwalk Social for mouth-watering tacos.

If nourishing classics alongside live sports and music sound up your street, then it’s time to hit up Boardwalk Social . Inspired by gastro-pub classics with a focus on local ingredients, take your pick of salads, sourdough pizza, tacos and burgers.

You’ll also find an impressive drinks list to match featuring local brews with 36 beers on tap, 40 local and international gins and a range of signature cocktails.

Cuisine: Pub classics

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Hive of activity

Location: Ground Floor, 85, Esplanade, Cairns City (inside Crystalbrook Flynn)

4. Ganbaranba

 When in Cairns, do as the locals do and eat ramen at Ganbaranba . You’ll recognise this place by the line that snakes up the street six nights a week. Once you’re in, you’ll be rewarded with a busy yet wholesome joint that serves an array of traditional ramen soups and gyoza in a casual setting.

The ingredients are locally sourced and super fresh, with emphasis placed on authenticity. They’ll even ask you how you want your noodles cooked; say medium. Every meal comes with a complimentary serving of iced tea, cementing this casual joint as one of the greats.

Cuisine: Japanese

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Cheap-and-cheerful

Location: 7/12-20 Spence St, Cairns City

5. Prawn Star Cairns

a seafood platter at Prawn Star Cairns — Seafood just tastes better when consumed on a boat that doubles as a restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Located at Marlin Marina, Prawn Star Cairns is a floating restaurant serving fresh and local seafood straight off the trawler. The atmosphere is laid-back yet enchanting, with fairy lights strung across the boats, music and communal shared tables.

Here it’s all about delicious simplicity, so forget the fancy sides and cocktails, and instead tuck into raw salmon sashimi, prawns, oysters and crayfish, or the ultimate Sailor’s Platter to share. Juices, soft drinks, beer, and wine are available.

Cuisine: Fresh and local seafood

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: Pier Point Road | Marlin Marina, E31 Berth, Cairns City

6. Piato Cairns Restaurant

brews and spirits at Piato Cairns Restaurant — Explore the range of spirits and brews at Piato. (Image: Supplied)

If you want to savour the flavours of superior home cuisine, welcome to the Piato experience. Bringing the joy of casual Mediterranean dining to The Pier, Piato Cairns serves top-quality seafood and steak dishes, including Moreton Bay bugs and prawn and scallop ravioli, and for dessert — banana mousse.

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Quality all-round

Location: 1 Pierpoint Road Shop G4A, The Pier Marina, Cairns City

7. Dundee’s Waterfront Dining

two women dining at Dundee’s Waterfront Dining, Cairns restaurants — Dundee’s Waterfront is set right across from the ocean in an open-air setting. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

For waterfront views and a taste of Australia, Dundee’s Restaurant on the Waterfront has a modern Australian menu featuring fresh local seafood, tender Australian-bred beef grilled to perfection, pasta, salads and Australian fare such as kangaroo, crocodile and emu.

For dessert, you can’t go past the Magnum Lava, a dark chocolate lava pudding with a mini Magnum ice cream, honeycomb crumbs and double cream.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Postcard-worthy scenic

Location: 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns City

8. Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium

For a dining experience with a different kind of view, Dundees at the Cairns Aquarium features the largest tank within a restaurant in the whole of Australia. With a 70,000-litre saltwater marine aquarium in the background, enjoy the finest seafood and produce from Tropical North Queensland with a lively drinks menu to match. Kids will love it too, with their own menu to choose from, including ice cream and a soft drink.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere:  Fun and immersive

Location: 5 Florence St, Cairns City

9. Moku Bar & Grill

dining at Moku Bar & Grill, Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort — Pair fresh tropical favourites with expertly crafted cocktails at Moku Bar & Grill. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

With modern coastal decor overlooking the lagoon, Moku Bar and Grill boasts expertly crafted cocktails and island-inspired fare, designed to share. Feast your eyes on a seasonal selection of fresh tropical favourites, from Fried Baby Daintree Barramundi to their Fijian-Style Coconut Curry.

Cuisine: Island-inspired fare

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Tropical summer

Location: 122 Lake St, Cairns City (Within Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort)

10. Oak & Vine Cairns

food and cocktails at Oak & Vine Cairns — Indulge in share plates and punchy cocktails at Oak & Vine. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Perched atop Oaks Cairns Hotel, the city’s Oak & Vine Cairns rooftop restaurant and bar serves up ocean views and share plates daily. Indulge in small plates or hearty mains such as Lamb Rump Ted Curry, Confit Duck and Pesto Linguine. Sit back, relax and soak in some of the best open terrace dining Cairns has to offer.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: City views

Location: 59/63 Esplanade, Cairns City

11. Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse

steak and wine at Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse, Cairns — Feast on prime cuts of steak at Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse. (Image: Supplied)

If you’re on the lookout for succulent meat and exceptional service alongside a superb Cairns waterfront location, look no further than Waterbar & Grill Steakhouse . Renowned for its consistency in preparing and cooking grilled meats (prime rib eye topped with tiger prawns is a must-eat), you’ll also find an inviting decor, vibrant music and a hearty buzz.

Cuisine: Incredible steaks and African-inspired flavours

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Bustling

Location: 1 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City

12. Rocco by Crystalbrook

dining at Rocco by Crystalbrook, Cairns restaurants — Rocco by Crystalbrook offers a modern menu with Mediterranean flair. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Boasting 270-degree panoramic views of Cairns and the Coral Sea, Rocco is the city’s highest rooftop bar and restaurant. With earthy tones and Middle Eastern prints setting a warm ambience, order from the delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu and choose a signature cocktail to go with it.

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Funky

Location: Level 12, Tower, 131/141 Esplanade, Cairns City (within Crystalbrook Riley)

13. Bellocale Italian & Seafood Restaurant

the risotto alla pescatora at Bellocale Italian & Seafood Restaurant, Cairns restaurants — The risotto alla pescatora is a standout at Bellocale Italian & Seafood Restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Owned and operated by husband and wife Kevin and Summer, Bellocale Italian provides locals and tourists with an upbeat ambience and modern Italian meals to create a welcoming dining experience. Choose from an array of fresh, locally caught seafood and dishes, including seafood ravioli filled with blue swimmer crab, and fileto di manzo — local Tableland beef fillet tenderloin steak.

Cuisine: Modern Italian

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Cosy yet sophisticated

Location: 62 Shields St, Cairns City

14. Paper Crane by Crystalbrook

two women dining at Paper Crane by Crystalbrook, Cairns restaurants — Dine on abundant Asian flavours at Paper Crane by Crystalbrook. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

For tastes of Asia with a playful twist, Paper Crane is an incredible fusion restaurant, beautifully highlighting Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai and Vietnamese-inspired dishes. Signature proteins and local produce feature heavily, with an abundance of fresh options from the region. Thirsty? Their signature cocktails are a mix of sweet and spicy, and a varied global wine list will keep you hydrated.

Cuisine: Asian fusion

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Unique

Location: Ground Floor, 131-141, Esplanade, Cairns City (within Crystalbrook Riley)

15. Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook

dining at Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook, Cairns restaurants — You’ll find expertly crafted Italian dishes at Flynn’s Italian. (Image: Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook)

Bringing a taste of Italy to the tropics, Flynn’s Italian is loud, fun and all about communal dining experiences. Inviting you into its quintessentially Italian vibe, expect to find each dish expertly crafted, ensuring you savour the light mix of fresh Italian flavours. Dinner is complete with an assortment of Italian desserts, from tiramisu and vanilla panna cotta to affogato and gelato. And for the ideal match, choose the three or four-course set menu with perfectly paired wines.

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Inviting

Location: Level 1/85 Esplanade, Cairns City (inside Crystalbrook Flynn)

16. Ochre Restaurant

dining at Ochre Restaurant, Cairns restaurants — Sample an inventive array of dishes at Ochre Restaurant. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

In the hub of Cairns on the edge of the waterfront, dining out at the award-winning Ochre is a no-brainer. Renowned for showcasing the best of Australia’s produce to the world, diners from far and wide come to sample an inventive array of dishes such as Salt and Native Pepper Leaf Crocodile and Prawns, Kangaroo Satays, or an Australian Antipasto Platter that comprises emu wonton and salmon green ant gravlax.

Cuisine: Australian native foods

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Innovative

Location: Harbour Lights Boardwalk, 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns City

17. Salt House

cocktails at Salt House, Cairns restaurants — Sip flavourful cocktails at Salt House. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Located right at the heart of the esplanade, the expansive Salt House with flowing ponds and fire features is almost as iconic as the scenery that surrounds it. The menu changes frequently depending on the seasonal produce on offer at that moment. Brick-fired pizzas are a staple, alongside local seafood and a number of meats cooked on the custom-built Argentinian wood-fired grill.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$ – $$$$

Atmosphere: Entertaining

Location: Marina Point, 6/2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City

18. Tamarind Restaurant

a plate of food at Tamarind, Cairns restaurants — Tamarind serves exquisite dishes handcrafted from the freshest local produce.

Featuring crisp white linen tablecloths and low-lit lighting on timber walls, Tamarind offers a sophisticated ambience, complemented by its exquisite dishes handcrafted from the freshest local produce, such as cured North Queensland kingfish and quail and crab. Have you heard of ‘Australian Freestyle’ cuisine? If not, it’s where the chefs embrace cooking styles and techniques from various cultures and cuisines, and let their imagination run free. Stop by and experience it for yourself.

Cuisine: Australian Freestyle

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Intimate

Location: 6-8 Abbott St, Cairns City (Inside Pullman Reef Hotel Casino)

19. CC’s Bar & Grill

a close-up shot of food at CC’s Bar and Grill — CC’s Bar and Grill puts the spotlight on local produce. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

Inspired by the ruggedness of the Australian outback, award-winning CC’s Bar and Grill is famous for its steak, with most of it sourced from Cairns’ backyard, the Atherton Tableland. Premium steaks are served with grilled bone marrow and a choice of sauces. Not only is CC’s known for redefining the traditional steakhouse, but the extensive wine list also comes from some of the most exquisite wineries across the country.

Cuisine: Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Stylishly rustic

Location: Ground Floor A/163 Abbott St, Cairns City (inside Crystalbrook Bailey)

20. Bushfire Flame Grill

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bushfire Flame Grill.

For all-you-can-eat succulent, flame-grilled meats that are carved right at your table, make a beeline for Bushfire Flame Grill . Carvers will circle the restaurant with the seasoned and marinated meat, followed by churros, cinnamon sugar, pineapple and ice cream. It’s fun, fierce and highly delicious.

Cuisine: Brazilian

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Theatre of the kitchen

Location: 43 Esplanade, Cairns City

Surrounding suburbs

21. Nu Nu Restaurant

a spread of food at Nu Nu Restaurant, Cairns restaurants — Nu Nu Restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with a seasonal menu. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

It doesn’t get any better than dining at one of the country’s best beachfront establishments – the award-winning Nu Nu . This much-loved Palm Cove restaurant offers modern Australian cuisine with a seasonal menu, focusing on locally procured ingredients from the rainforest, the reef and outback cattle stations. Our tip? Enjoy breakfast or lunch here so you can look out at the spectacular views across the Coral Sea.

Of course, you have to pop into its sweet little sister, Numi Ice Creamery , a short stroll from the restaurant and always stocked with artisan ice cream and sorbet.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Barefoot luxury

Location: 1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

22. Ellis Beach Bar & Grill

the Ellis Beach Bar & Grill, Cairns restaurants — Sit back and unwind at Ellis Beach Bar & Grill. (Image: Supplied)

Just 5 minutes from Palm Cove on a 6-kilometre stretch of beach is Ellis Beach Bar & Grill . With rainforest backdrops and a casual and friendly vibe, it’s the ideal place to sit back and unwind.

Here you’ll find quality creative dishes that offer value for money, including wood-fired ‘low & slow’ BBQ meats, burgers, nachos, and dedicated vegan plant-based options. Join a Sunday Session for $2 oysters and live music, or enjoy a romantic twilight dinner overlooking the Coral Sea.

Cuisine: Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Friendly

Location: 13 Captain Cook Hwy, Ellis Beach

23. Harrisons Restaurant

cocktail at Harrisons Restaurant, Cairns restaurants — Kick off with a themed cocktail at Harrisons Restaurant.

Situated in the iconic Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, dine al fresco overlooking the resort’s pool at Harrisons Restaurant . As Port Douglas’ most nationally awarded restaurant, enjoy the unique tastes of North Queensland’s produce curated with a hint of the British heritage of acclaimed Chef Spencer Patrick.

Cuisine: Modern British

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Knowledgeable

Location: 168-190 Port Douglas Road, Port Douglas

24. Salsa Bar & Grill

dining at Salsa Bar & Grill — Relish seafood culinary delights at Salsa Bar & Grill.

A very popular Port Douglas restaurant, Salsa Bar & Grill is a local favourite known for its lively food, music and people. Alongside its cool vibe and awesome cocktails, take your pick from its fusion of culinary delights, including bush spice-dusted calamari, smoked almond crusted barramundi and mascarpone cream cheese mousse.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Energetic

Location: 26 Wharf St, Port Douglas

25. Flames Of The Forest

a fire dancer at Flames Of The Forest — Catch a fiery performance from The Aboriginal Cultural Experience. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland)

For an exclusive date night, how does an intimate, natural tropical dining experience set within a candlelit rainforest sound? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Flames Of The Forest , Australia’s only rainforest dining experience. Showcasing a tropical-inspired menu (such as coral trout with herb salad, fragrant rice, and yellow curry sauce), guests are treated to a performance from The Aboriginal Cultural Experience featuring traditional storytelling, didgeridoo playing and song. And to get there? It’s a door-to-door service.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$$$

Atmosphere: Rainforest magic

Location: 2 Hope St, Port Douglas

26. Osprey’s Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve

guests walking into Ospreys Restaurant at Thala Beach Nature Reserve — Dine al fresco at Osprey’s Restaurant in Thala Beach Nature Reserve. (Image: Tourism Tropical North Queensland; Matthew Evans Photography)

Perched in the treetops 10 minutes south of Port Douglas, Ospreys Restaurant provides a picturesque dining experience looking across the sparkling waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Produce is sourced daily from local markets and suppliers to create a seasonal menu, and an emphasis is placed on ethically sourcing ingredients directly from local neighbouring areas like the Atherton Tablelands and the Coral Sea. Our pick is the slow-roasted pork belly — and for dessert? Creamy tropical mousse sorbet.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Idyllic

Location: 5078 Captain Cook Highway, Oak Beach

27. Guerrilla

Save your Wednesdays for tacos at Guerrilla.

Serving up more than killer spicy margaritas and tacos, Guerrilla is a fantastic Mexican dining experience. For the ultimate family meal, nothing says Sunday like taking a deep dive into the Mexican tradition of slow-cooked barbacoa. Savour a special three-course meal with your loved ones whilst exploring boutique wines from the cellar.

Cuisine: Mexican

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Modern

Location: 120 Collins Ave, Edge Hill

28. NOA

Serving fresh, innovative food and utilising the local region as their supermarket, NOA is a relaxed yet refined restaurant. The menu here showcases the diversity of local produce infused with aromatic spices and bold flavours. Head in for all-you-can-eat baos every Thursday evening, or every Friday and Sunday evening for live music on the deck.

Cuisine: Modern Australian meets an international twist

Average price: $$ – $$$

Atmosphere: Personable

Location: 1 Pyne St, Edge Hill

Looking for a nightcap? Pop into one of Cairn’s top bars.