Every Palm Cove restaurant you need to know about

Jemma Fletcher Jemma Fletcher
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For a taste of the tropics, add these Palm Cove restaurants to your must-eat list.

If you’re looking to enjoy a meal on the waterfront, head to Williams Esplanade in relaxing Palm Cove. This popular dining strip hosts a wide variety of restaurants with a mix of cuisines to choose from, alongside beautiful views overlooking the beach.

From high-end, award-winning restaurants to humble establishments using the very best of Tropical North Queensland’s produce, incredible dining adventures await.

The shortlist

1. Palm Cove Tavern

Embracing the region’s laid-back style in its large outdoor space, Palm Cove Tavern offers both a dining area and a beer garden. Enjoy all of your favourite Aussie classics with a nod to the tropics, such as Pulled Pork Sliders, Classic Parma and Beer Battered Market Fish. Dogs are welcome, and sports lovers will be happy with the big screen.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$- $$$
Atmosphere: Welcoming
Location: 24 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

2. Il Forno Pizzeria

pizza at Il Forno Pizzeria, Palm Cove
Il Forno Pizzeria nails authentic Italian pizzas.

Sometimes all you want is a delicious pizza, and Il Forno Pizzeria knows how to deliver. Dine in at the casual atmosphere here for a taste of long-held family recipes with genuine Italian flavours, along with salads, beer, wine and homemade Tiramisu.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Bustling
Location: 7/111-117 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

3. Tiger Prawn Toby’s

a sandwich loaded with shrimps at Tiger Prawn Tony’s
Tiger Prawn Tony’s is a comfort food hub serving loaded seafood sandwiches.

Serving the freshest catch straight from the Coral Sea, Tiger Prawn Tony’s takes pride in preparing and serving the area’s best seafood with passion. For the ultimate indulgence, go for the Tiger Prawn Tony’s Bonanza filled with bugs, prawns, oysters, sashimi and crayfish.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$ – $$$
Atmosphere: Communal
Location: 95-97 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

4.  Choc Dee

a spread of food at Choc Dee Thai Restaurant, Palm Cove
Choc Dee serves mouth-watering soups that pair well with Jasmine Rice.

Opposite the main beach on the esplanade is Choc Dee Thai Restaurant, offering the tastes of Thailand. Simply put in their own words, it’s “just good quality food that tastes great at a reasonable price with meals large enough to share. You won’t go home hungry."

Cuisine: Thai
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Alfresco
Location: 12/123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

5. The Reef House Restaurant

pouring wine into a glass at The Reef House Restaurant
Indulge in the ultimate seafood platter paired with wine at The Reef House Restaurant. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Want to dine under the stars? Surrounded by the candlelight, savour the tastes of North Queensland’s fresh produce at The Reef House Restaurant, where you can choose from the a la carte or degustation menu, or indulge in the ultimate seafood platter. From confit duck and house-made squid ink tagliatelle, the dishes here are as deluxe as you would imagine. All meals are accompanied by an amuse-bouche with the chef’s compliments.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$$
Atmosphere: Romantic
Location: 99 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

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6. Rattle n Hum Palm Cove

Enjoy a hot stone oven pizza, burger, hearty steak or salad at the cosy Rattle n Hum Palm Cove. This bustling bar and grill offers big, delicious and great value for money meals, perfect for lunch or dinner. Finish with the Warm Chocolate Walnut Brownie for dessert. $14 kid meals are available.

Cuisine: Australian
Average price: $$$ – $$$$
Atmosphere: Family friendly
Location: 119 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

7. Miguel’s

a Spanish seafood dish at Miguel's Palm Cove
Head to Miguel’s for a true taste of Spanish cuisine.

A new addition to the Palm Cove dining scene, Miguel’s is the go-to place for exceptional tapas. You’re spoilt for choice with the likes of Jamón Serrano (sliced peppers), Champinones al Ajillo (garlic mushrooms) and empanadas – a Spanish gem to add to your culinary must-eat list.

Cuisine: Spanish
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Passionate
Location: 41 – 47 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

8. El Grekos Taverna

freshly shucked oysters at El Grekos Taverna, Palm Cove
Freshly shucked oysters straight from ocean to plate at El Grekos Taverna.

How does a night filled with traditional Greek food and the sound of a bouzouki sound? Make sure to stop in at El Grekos Taverna – a place that’ll make you feel like you’re somewhere in Santorini. From a chilli feta pot and Greek village-style bruschetta to mixed grill and Mediterranean salad, it’s authentically simple and delicious.

Cuisine: Greek
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Authentic
Location: 115-117 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

9. O’Donnells Palm Cove

al fresco dining at O’Donnells Palm Cove
Dine al fresco at O’Donnells Palm Cove.

One of life’s greatest pleasures is sipping a cold Guinness on the deck of O’Donnells Palm Cove, watching the bustle of Williams Esplanade. The atmosphere here is traditionally Irish with home-cooked fare to taste alongside an excellent live music line-up. From a cheeky beef pie to bangers and mash, enjoy a wee bit of Irish paradise in Palm Cove.

Cuisine: Irish
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Lively
Location: 5/139 Williams Esplanade

10. Temple of Tastes Restaurant

lunch by the pool at Temple of Tastes Restaurant
Savour Southeast Asian flavours in a tropical garden setting. (Image: Temple of Tastes Restaurant)

Nestled among the tropical gardens of Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort and Spa is Temple of Tastes Restaurant, where you’re invited to experience the tantalising flavours and textures inspired by Southeast Asia using seasonal produce from North Queensland’s Atherton Tablelands. If you need help deciding, the chicken supreme with honey miso butter or the crispy skin barramundi are standouts.

Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Warm welcome
Location: 5 Triton Street, Palm Cove

11. Vivo Palm Cove

scallops at Vivo Palm Cove
Tender scallops at Vivo Palm Cove. (Image: Mitch Fong)

Set in a white colonial building along the esplanade is Vivo Palm Cove, where you can dine alfresco on the deck and watch passersby go by. From Crab Tagliatelle and old-school Fish ‘n’ Chips to an impressive Seafood Mezze, the menu here is diverse enough for everyone to enjoy.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Beachfront dining
Location: 49 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

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12. IGNIS Palm Cove

sample food at IGNIS Palm Cove
Dine on contemporary flavours at IGNIS Palm Cove.

A small, modern Italian diner on the esplanade, IGNIS (meaning passion and fire), offers contemporary flavours and exceptional ingredients. Transport yourself from the idyllic centre of Palm Cove to the heart of Europe through the taste of Vongole (classic Napoli clams), Reef Fish soubise and pistachio gelato Baklava.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Intimate
Location: 41 – 47 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

13. Cairns Surf Club Palm Cove

For a spot ‘where the locals eat’, stop in for lunch or dinner at Cairns Surf Club Palm Cove. Relax on the deck overlooking Palm Cove Beach and Double Island while tucking into the hearty bistro menu. From pulled pork loaded fries to fettuccine marinara and kid meal favourites, it’s the perfect family-friendly restaurant.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$
Atmosphere: Local favourite
Location: 135 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

14. Nu Nu Restaurant

a couple dining at Nu Nu Restaurant, Palm Cove
Dine under palm trees at Nu Nu Restaurant. (Image: Tourism and Events 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.  Enjoy breakfast or lunch here so you can look out at the spectacular views across the Coral Sea.

Insider’s tip: Order the catch of the day — they only ever have local line-caught fish on the menu in order to celebrate the best catch of the day, so it’s a great way to try something new.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$$ – $$$$$
Atmosphere: Tropical luxury
Location: 1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove

15. La Mesa

pork belly at La Mesa, Palm Cove
Order savoury pork belly at La Mesa.

Located on-site at Peppers Beach Club and Spa, La Mesa offers a shared dining experience inspired by Mexican and Latin American culture. Mix and match small traditional dishes that can be combined (the pork belly and octopus tiradito are especially good), using locally sourced ingredients fresh from the reef and the surrounding tropics.

Cuisine: Mexican
Average price: $$$$ – $$$$$
Atmosphere: Laid-back
Location: 123 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

16. Beach Almond

fried fish at Beach Almond, Palm Cove
Delight in Southeast Asian delicacies at Beach Almond.

Showcasing an array of Southeast Asian delicacies, Beach Almond is a delightfully fresh modern seafood restaurant. From chilli live mud crabs and tropical lobster to caramelised slow low-cooked sticky pork ribs, it’s worth stopping in to see what all the buzz is about.

Cuisine: Modern Asia seafood
Average price: $$$$$
Atmosphere: Relaxed hidden gem
Location: 145 Williams Esplanade, Palm Cove

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Jemma Fletcher
Based in sun-kissed Brisbane, Jemma Fletcher is an accomplished writer, editor and content manager. Armed with a Bachelor of Journalism from The University of Queensland, as well as over a decade of tourism marketing experience, Jemma now specialises in freelance travel writing and has a soft spot for the beauty of Queensland. Her expertise has been honed through her previous roles as Chief Editor of Queensland.com and WeekendNotes.com and she is the passionate creator of High Cup of Tea, an online directory celebrating Australia's finest high tea experiences. After growing up in the UK (hence her love for tea and scones) and a delightful chapter in Sydney, Jemma loves to explore quaint towns with a rich history. Also high on her weekend list is tasting the local cafe scene, enjoying charming farm stays with her young family and deciding where her next travel adventure will be (half of the fun is in the planning!)
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From reef to rainforest: Discover the best Port Douglas experiences

(Credit: TTNQ)

    Lucy Cousins Lucy Cousins
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    Ancient rainforest, coral reefs, laid-back luxury and adrenaline-fuelled adventures, Port Douglas offers a side of Australia unlike anywhere else.

    Mornings in Port Douglas start with a beautiful symphony. As day breaks, the lyrical calls of Rainbow Lorikeets, cries of the sulphur-crested cockatoos and rhythmic Coral Sea waves create a colourful soundtrack for Tropical North Queensland’s sunrise. If there’s one place in Australia that captures the sweet spot between luxury and laid-back living, it’s here. This small, seaside village has just enough glamour to feel indulgent and just enough barefoot charm to make you feel like you’ve escaped the chaos of everyday life.

    Whether you’re diving into the warm waters on Four Mile Beach or enjoying an ice-cold drink and a Barramundi burger overlooking the marina, Port Douglas offers more than just a seaside holiday.

    Local gourmet goodies

    Nautilus restaurant port douglas
    Nab an open-air table beneath a canopy of palms at Nautilus. (Image: Toby Stanley)

    The tropical food scene in Port Douglas is influenced by the rich agricultural regions surrounding it, with fresh produce arriving daily from nearby farms and tropical growers across the region. At Nautilus – a hidden, palm-fringed restaurant just off Macrossan Street – the menu showcases regional flavours. Its Signature Nautilus Mango Soufflé is a long-time favourite.

    Nearby, Hi-Tide by the Beach offers a relaxed way beachfront dining experience overlooking the Coral Sea. From crocodile and lemon myrtle spring rolls to wild barramundi and a volcanic hot stone steak, taste the diverse flavours of Tropical North Queensland.

    Visitors can also explore the region’s local markets. Port Douglas Markets offers artisan products and tropical treats each Sunday, while the Saturday morning Mossman Markets is the place for fresh local produce from the surrounding farming community.

    Just outside of Port Douglas, Ospreys at Thala Beach Nature Reserve has one of the region’s most memorable dining outlooks. Perched on a small headland between rainforest and sea, take in views across the coastline and mountains while you dine. The seasonal menu highlights local seafood, tropical fruits and native ingredients sourced from across the region

    Travelling with young humans

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures port douglas
    Catch a spectacle at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Port Douglas caters for all types of visitors, but families especially love the walkable streets, wide beaches and range of activities nearby. An attraction that never fails to delight all ages is Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures – a wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism park with some of the region’s largest crocodiles. Here, you’ll also find koalas, cassowaries, turtles and other Australian wildlife.

    For something slower paced, sit back and enjoy a tranquil visit aboard the historic Lady Douglas River Cruise. Glide along the calm waters of Dickson Inlet, keeping an eye out for birdlife and estuarine crocodiles along the mangroves. Children can take part in activity sheets onboard and even have the opportunity to help steer the boat.

    This region is also deeply connected to Indigenous culture, and a Dreamtime Walk is one way to learn about it. Discover the stories, traditions and connection to Country of the local Kuku Yalanji people from local Indigenous guides, while exploring the rainforest and waters of Mossman Gorge.

    Exploring local waterways

    Coya Beach port douglas
    Walk along the peaceful Cooya Beach. (Credit: TTNQ)

    Join a guided tour with Walkabout Cultural Adventures to explore the peaceful Cooya Beach. Led by deeply knowledgeable local Aboriginal guides, try seasonal local bush tucker, take in the beautiful landscape and gain insight into the history, culture and traditions of this land.

    Surrounded by dense canopy and ancient species, nearby Hartley’s Creek Falls are at their finest after rain. These beautiful falls are reached via a lush rainforest walk that winds through creek crossings, towering greenery and moss-covered boulders.

    To swim where the locals swim, head out past local farms and into the foothills of the Mossman River to Shannonvale – a low-key freshwater swimming hole surrounded by sun-warmed rocks and deep pockets of clear water. It’s a quiet area to spend a few hours retreating from the world.

    Adrenaline adventures

    Sailaway Port Douglas
    Take to the ocean with Sailaway Port Douglas. (Credit: TTNQ)

    One of the most high-octane ways to enjoy the nature of Tropical North Queensland is white-water rafting down the impressive Barron River. With Grade two and Grade three rapids, expect plenty of splashing, some teamwork, and a few moments where everyone in the raft screams and laughs at the same time.

    Join Back Country Bliss for the most unique floating experience you’ll ever encounter. Head into the rainforest and float along the serene Mossman River on your individual board, taking in the sights and sounds of the ancient landscape around you.

    If you prefer ocean swimming, Sailaway Port Douglas explores the idyllic Low Isles and the outer reef on their snorkelling tours. Enjoy the Great Barrier Reef from above or below and look out for coral gardens, giant clams, colourful reef fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles.

    For land-lovers, the Devil’s Thumb is a challenging but rewarding hike with incredible views over the coast and endless cane fields. This 10km return hike will take around six to eight hours, so leave a whole day and pack snacks!

    Experiences that give back

    Skyrail Rainforest Cableway port douglas experiences
    See the rainforest from above on The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (Credit: TTNQ)

    With two UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics of Queensland rainforest region – it’s not surprising Tropical North Queensland is a hub for eco-tourism. The stunning Daintree Ecolodge was founded on the principles of minimising environmental impact, supporting the local community and teaching guests about the local Indigenous culture. Their elevated rainforest-style ‘bayans’ are tucked among the trees, bringing nature into every part of a guest’s stay.

    Further down the coast, the luxury bungalows and treetop hideaways of Thala Beach Nature Reserve are dotted across 45 acres of protected headland, forest and beach. The property’s design intentionally preserves large areas of native vegetation and beachfront ecosystem, while conserving the surrounding habitat. The private beach and various swimming pools offer a cool retreat from the heat of the day, while the main lodge offers the perfect place to read and relax.

    The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a 7.5-kilometre cableway between Cairns and nearby Kuranda, has won multiple tourism and environmental awards. It’s also the first tourism attraction in the world to achieve Platinum EarthCheck Accreditation, for its long-term environmental management and sustainability initiatives.

    Start planning your Port Douglas adventure at tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au.