On my recent trip to Cairns, I embarked on a culinary journey, exploring six of the city’s most enticing eateries. From fresh seafood to exotic local dishes, Cairns has something to tantalize every taste bud.
1. Salt House: Oceanic Elegance
Location: Marina Point, 6/2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $25 – $50 per person
Nearby Attractions: Cairns Esplanade Lagoon, Reef Fleet Terminal
Salt House, situated at Marina Point with stunning views of the marina and the Coral Sea, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Known for its fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine, Salt House is a perfect blend of style and substance.
My Experience
Walking into Salt House, I was immediately struck by its chic, open-air design, complete with a wood-fired grill and a bar that boasts an impressive selection of cocktails. The ambiance was relaxed yet sophisticated, ideal for enjoying a sunset meal.
I started with the Salt and Pepper Calamari, a dish that came highly recommended. The calamari was perfectly crispy, seasoned with a delicate blend of spices, and accompanied by a zesty lime aioli that added a refreshing kick. For the main course, I couldn’t resist the Reef and Beef – a sumptuous combination of grilled prawns and a tender rib-eye steak, served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The steak was cooked to perfection, juicy and flavorful, while the prawns were fresh and succulent.
To complement my meal, I indulged in a Tropical Passion cocktail, a delightful mix of passionfruit, pineapple, and coconut rum. It was the perfect tropical refreshment, balancing the rich flavors of my dinner beautifully.
Recommendation: 9/10 – Salt House offers a top-notch dining experience with spectacular views. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and the service is attentive and friendly. A must-visit for a special night out in Cairns.
2. Ochre Restaurant: A Taste of Australia
Location: 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $30 – $60 per person
Nearby Attractions: Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Zoom and Wildlife Dome
Ochre Restaurant, located along the waterfront, is renowned for its innovative use of native Australian ingredients. This restaurant promises a unique culinary experience that showcases the best of local produce and indigenous flavors.
My Experience
The interior of Ochre Restaurant is elegant yet unpretentious, with large windows offering views of the bustling waterfront. The menu, a celebration of Australian biodiversity, intrigued me with its exotic offerings.
For an entrée, I chose the Seared Kangaroo with Quandong Chutney. The kangaroo meat was lean and tender, with a rich, gamey flavor that was perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy chutney made from native Australian quandong fruit. For the main course, I opted for the Bush Spice Crusted Barramundi. The fish was fresh and flaky, seasoned with a blend of bush spices that gave it a unique, earthy flavor. It was served with a side of finger lime salsa, which added a burst of citrusy freshness.
Dessert was a highlight – the Wattleseed Pavlova. This classic Australian dessert was given a twist with the addition of wattleseed, which added a nutty, coffee-like flavor to the meringue, beautifully balanced by the sweetness of fresh berries and cream.
Recommendation: 10/10 – Ochre Restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience that is both educational and delicious. It’s a fantastic place to sample some truly unique Australian flavors in a refined setting.
3. Prawn Star: Seafood Extravaganza
Location: Marlin Marina, Pier A, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $20 – $40 per person
Nearby Attractions: Great Barrier Reef Departure Terminal, Cairns Aquarium
Prawn Star offers a dining experience like no other – enjoying fresh seafood on a converted fishing trawler. Moored at the Marlin Marina, this casual eatery is the perfect spot for seafood lovers.
My Experience
Dining at Prawn Star is an informal affair, with seating on the deck of the boat and a laid-back, maritime atmosphere. The menu is straightforward, focusing on the freshest seafood available.
I began with a platter of Fresh Prawns, caught locally and served chilled with a tangy cocktail sauce. The prawns were incredibly fresh, with a sweet, briny flavor that needed no embellishment. Next, I sampled the Spanner Crab, which was sweet and succulent, served with a side of crusty bread and butter. The highlight of my meal was the Grilled Moreton Bay Bugs – a type of slipper lobster – seasoned simply with garlic and butter to let the natural flavors shine through.
Enjoying such high-quality seafood in the open air, with the gentle rocking of the boat and the sound of water lapping against the hull, made for an unforgettable dining experience.
Recommendation: 8/10 – Prawn Star is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. The atmosphere is unique and the seafood is some of the freshest you’ll find in Cairns. Perfect for a casual, fun meal by the water.
4. Ganbaranba Noodle Colosseum: A Ramen Revelation
Location: Shop 10/12-20 Spence St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $10 – $20 per person
Nearby Attractions: Cairns Central Shopping Centre, Cairns Night Markets Ganbaranba Noodle Colosseum, located in the heart of Cairns, is a haven for ramen lovers. This cozy, bustling restaurant is known for its authentic Japanese ramen, made fresh daily.
My Experience
The first thing that struck me as I entered Ganbaranba was the aroma of simmering broth and fresh noodles. The restaurant’s interior is compact and lively, with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action.
I ordered the Signature Tonkotsu Ramen, a rich pork bone broth served with tender chashu pork, a soft-boiled egg, and fresh vegetables. The broth was incredibly flavorful, with a deep, umami taste that was both comforting and satisfying. The noodles were perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of chewiness. To accompany my meal, I had a side of Gyoza – Japanese pan-fried dumplings – which were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
The friendly staff and the energetic atmosphere added to the overall experience, making it feel like a little slice of Japan in the middle of Cairns.
Recommendation: 9/10 – Ganbaranba Noodle Colosseum is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic ramen. The flavors are robust, the portions are generous, and the prices are very reasonable.
5. Fusion Art Bar & Tapas: Creative Culinary Fusion
Location: 8/12-14 Lake St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $20 – $50 per person
Nearby Attractions: Cairns Night Markets, Cairns Art Gallery
Fusion Art Bar & Tapas offers a unique blend of art and cuisine, making it a standout dining destination in Cairns. The menu features a mix of tapas from various cuisines, paired with an impressive selection of wines and cocktails.
My Experience
The interior of Fusion Art Bar & Tapas is a feast for the eyes, with vibrant artwork adorning the walls and an eclectic mix of furniture creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The menu is equally eclectic, offering a wide range of small plates inspired by different culinary traditions.
I started with the Chorizo and Manchego Croquettes, which were crispy on the outside and filled with a rich, savory mixture of chorizo and manchego cheese. Next, I tried the Seared Scallops with a Pea Puree and Prosciutto. The scallops were perfectly cooked, tender and sweet, while the pea puree and crispy prosciutto added layers of flavor and texture. For my main course, I chose the Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki and Flatbread. The kofta was juicy and well-seasoned, and the tangy tzatziki provided a refreshing contrast.
To drink, I enjoyed a glass of local white wine, which paired beautifully with the diverse flavors of the tapas. The friendly, knowledgeable staff were more than happy to make recommendations, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Recommendation: 9/10 – Fusion Art Bar & Tapas is a fantastic choice for a night out in Cairns. The creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere make for a memorable dining experience. It’s also a great place to explore local art and enjoy some excellent cocktails.
6. C’est Bon: French Elegance in Cairns
Location: 20 Lake St, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia
Price Range: $30 – $70 per person
Nearby Attractions: Cairns Museum, Cairns Esplanade
C’est Bon brings a touch of French sophistication to the Cairns dining scene. Located in a charming, historic building, this restaurant offers a menu of classic French dishes with a modern twist.
My Experience
Walking into C’est Bon felt like stepping into a Parisian bistro, with its elegant decor and intimate ambiance. The menu features a variety of French classics, each prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
For my entrée, I chose the Escargot à la Bourguignonne – snails cooked in garlic and parsley butter. The snails were tender and flavorful, with the garlic butter adding a rich, aromatic touch. For the main course, I opted for the Duck à l’Orange. The duck was perfectly cooked, with crispy skin and succulent meat, complemented by a tangy orange sauce that added a delightful sweetness. On the side, I had a serving of Gratin Dauphinois, a creamy, cheesy potato dish that was the perfect comfort food.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the Crème Brûlée. The custard was smooth and velvety, with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust that cracked beautifully with each spoonful. Paired with a glass of fine French wine, the meal was a true culinary delight.
Recommendation: 10/10 – C’est Bon is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in exquisite French cuisine. The food is impeccable, the atmosphere is charming, and the service is top-notch. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Cairns offers a diverse and exciting culinary landscape, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings. From the fresh seafood at Salt House and Prawn Star to the exotic flavors at Ochre Restaurant, there is something for every palate. Ganbaranba Noodle Colosseum offers authentic Japanese ramen, while Fusion Art Bar & Tapas provides a creative fusion dining experience. Finally, C’est Bon brings a touch of French elegance to Cairns, making it a perfect spot for a special night out.
Exploring these eateries was a highlight of my trip to Cairns, and I highly recommend each of them for their unique contributions to the city’s food scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these restaurants are sure to provide memorable dining experiences.
