CAIRNS DINING


A relatively small regional city such as Cairns would think itself lucky to have such a wide variety of top quality cuisine. It's no secret that the quality of Cairns restaurants is due largely to the thriving tourist industry, which attracts world class chefs. But of course it's not difficult to prepare delicious food when you're using the freshest seafood from the Coral Sea, and the freshest meats and produce from the Atherton Tablelands.

So if you've got a hankering for a kangaroo sirloin and some crocodile wonton, or you're searching for the best fish 'n' chips on the coast, your luck has come in. But be careful, some of those tourist restaurants could be a bit of a tourist trap! At Cairns Unlimited, we know all the best restaurants, cafes, pubs, and takeaways in Cairns. And we'll share them with you... if you promise not to tell anyone!

OCHRE RESTAURANT AND CATERING
(formerly Red Ochre Grill)
Harbour Lights Waterfront, 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns (MAP)
Phone (07) 4051 0100 / Fax (07) 4051 0025
www.ochrerestaurant.com.au

Modern Australian cuisine on the waterfront!

Dining at Ochre Restaurant is like a virtual tour through the culinary delights of Australia. Located on the Boardwalk with sweeping harbour and mountain views, showcasing the best Cairns has to offer, Ochre Restaurant is now celebrating thirty years in Cairns.

Ochre's chefs have dedication to local produce and experience like no other in crafting native foraged ingredients into modern exciting cuisine, Ochre Restaurant offers a range of exquisite dishes, specialising in sustainable Australian regional produce, for tourists and locals alike.
WATERBAR AND GRILL
Shop G1a, Pier at the Marina, Pierpoint Road, Cairns (MAP)
Phone (07) 4031 1199
www.waterbarandgrill.com.au

Multi award winning steakhouse!

Waterbar and Grill is a multi award winning steakhouse situated in The Pier complex with panoramic views of the marina and surrounding hills. Waterbar & Grill offers you all the essentials of a memorable dining experience; excellent food, friendly staff and an unbeatable location.
The locally sourced beef is second to none, the ribs are to die for and there is plenty of seafood, vegetarian and lighter options. The restaurant boasts an extensive wine menu, exciting cocktail list and is very family friendly.

Open 7 days a week from 11.30 am, all major credit cards accepted, bookings advisable...
BALACLAVA HOTEL
423 Mulgrave Road, Earlville (MAP)
Phone (07) 4054 3588
www.balaclavahotel.com.au/dining

Great steaks... and family friendly dining!


Just five minutes south of the Cairns CBD on Mulgrave Road, the Balaclava Hotel dining room, known as Graziers Steakhouse, is a favourite among locals and visitors to North Queensland. Their menu offers a range of delicious dishes; from burgers, pub classics and a large selection of Grazier steaks.


The Balaclava Hotel cater for all members of the family with a Kids menu destined to please the fussiest little eaters and a delicious Senior's menu on offer. Their indoor playground is sure to keep the kids entertained.

PIATO
Shop G4A, The Pier Marina Pierpoint Road, Cairns (MAP)
Phone (07) 4041 4284
www.piatocairns.com

An emphasis on igniting the senses!

Elie Sopas, Restauranteur and Host is back and he is bringing the joy of casual med dining to The Pier in Cairns. Together with Head Chef Kosta this revered talent is ready to wow you! Elie and Kosta have been running restaurants that have been popular with locals for many years in Cairns.

If you're one that believes that there is more to life than a pinch of salt, and wishes to savour the flavours of truly superior home cuisine then.. Welcome to the Piato Experience!

* OUTSIDE AND INDOOR DINING * WATER VIEWS * TABLE SERVICE *

* COCKTAIL BAR * FUNCTIONS * A-LA-CARTE MEZE (SHARING PLATES) *
COCO'S RESTAURANT
17 Abbott Street, Cairns (MAP)
Phone (07) 4050 2101
www.pullmancairnsinternational.com.au/en/dining.html

A la carte is paddock to plate with local suppliers. Renowned for High Tea and house made pastry delicacies.
We love all good food, but we are especially passionate about Tropical North Queensland's wonderful array of local fish and seafood. Pure, honest and clean flavours are vibes that inspire us.

While you are enjoying our bushfire smoked gin cocktail or the signature handcrafted high tea menu from our award-winning pastry team you will also enjoy magical views across our spectacular colonial interior which echoes the region's history.

A casual yet refined experience awaits...

Located on the Lobby level of the Pullman Cairns International Hotel. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner - Coco's Kitchen and Bar is a favourite for locals and visitors alike!
SPIRIT OF CAIRNS - CAIRNS DINNER CRUISE
..departing from Marlin Marina, Cairns
Phone (07) 4047 9170
weblink coming soon

Why dine on the waterfront when you can dine on the water!

Spirit of Cairns is a luxury 26-metre sailing catamaran providing evening dinner cruises seven nights a week, plus Sunday lunch cruises. She is available for parties and functions, including weddings, business events and the conference and incentive market. With a focus on providing a premium product, service and experience, Spirit of Cairns features a fully licensed bar, ambient lighting, state of the art audio visual equipment, two 55-inch HD screens and everything you need for a memorable dinner cruise, lunch cruise, sunset cruise or special event.

The two-level Spirit of Cairns has exterior decks and an air-conditioned interior, which can comfortably accommodate up to 150 people (standing and 90 seated). Spirit of Cairns provides regular Cairns dinner cruises and Sunday Cairns lunch cruises. Spirit of Cairns can also be chartered for private hire and events, including weddings and parties.

Spirit of Cairns is locally operated by a company with more than 30 years' experience in taking visitors to the Great Barrier Reef, on day tours and extended liveaboard scuba diving expeditions.
SALT HOUSE RESTAURANT AND BAR
Marina Point, 6/2 Pierpoint Road, Cairns
Phone (07) 4041 7733
website link coming soon

A dining experience you won't forget!

Perched in a priceless location on the Marina, boasting lengthy mountain, ocean and Trinity inlet views makes it near impossible not to unwind and soak up the beauty of Tropical North Queensland.

Fresh, local and seasonal produce served up in our open plan kitchen on our custom built Argentinian wood fired grill creates a unique flavour and a dining experience you won't forget.

Open 7 days a week

Lunch 12-3pm

Dinner 6-10pm

 OTHER CAIRNS RESTAURANTS

AL PORTO CAFÉ RESTAURANT
Reef Fleet Terminal, 21 Spence Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 6222
Al Port Café Restaurant is open every day from 7am. The restaurant serves delicious breakfast and traditional Italian food for lunch, as well as gourmet burgers and seafood dishes.

BAYLEAF BALINESE RESTAURANT
Bay Village Tropical Retreat
Cnr Lake & Gatton Streets, Cairns
Phone (07) 4047 7955
Bayleaf Balinese Restaurant is decorated with imported furnishings and serves a changing selection of authentic Balinese dishes. Dining is alfresco or indoors, with the kitchen open to view. Vegetarian dishes are available and the restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

BOMBAY KITCHEN
62b Shields Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 0043
Authentic North Indian food in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Bombay Kitchen offers al fresco dining as well as indoor. Popular among the Cairns locals, the best option is to go for the banquet menu if you are on a group of four or more.

BUSHFIRE FLAMEGRILL
Pacific International Hotel
Corner Esplanade and Spence Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 7888 / Fax (07) 4031 1445
Bushfire Flame Grill is a unique and exciting dining experience. Their signature dish Churrasco, is a mouth watering Brazilian inspired, Australian style BBQ.

CAFE THAILAND
Shop 7/93 Cnr Aplin Street and The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4041 2624
Cafe Thailand offers an extensive many which includes traditional Thai dishes as well as many others where local produce is the main ingredients. The restaurant has been beautifully decorated following the Thai tradition.

C'EST BON
20 Lake Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 4488
C'est Bon is situated just five minutes from the Convention Centre, located at the entrance to Village Lane in Lake Street, directly behind the Cairns International Hotel and the Sofitel Reef Hotel Casino.

CHARLIE'S
Acacia Court Hotel
223-227 The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 5011
Charlie's boast a quality buffeet menu including a great selection of seafood and hot food. It's one of the favourite restaurants in Cairns among locals.

CHINA PALACE RESTAURANT
69 Abbott Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4032 2700
China Palace Restaurant offers modern chinese cuisine in a very convenient Cairns location. Choose from a set menu or a la carte menu, where vegetarian are also catered for. Don't miss their delicious dish yum cha.

COCK AND BULL
6 Grove Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 1160
Cock and Bull is a very popular Cairns tavern, offering generous portions at affordable prices. The tavern is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

CORAL HEDGE BRASSERIE
Rydges Esplanade Resort
Cnr Esplanade & Kerwin Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4044 9053
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner while also offering an all day snack menu, the famous Pasta Lunch is available on Thursdays and Fridays, while the Fire & Ice dinner menu operates seven nights a week. The Fire & Ice Dinner Menu mixes a la carte and buffet dining.

DUNDEE'S
Harbour Lights, 1 Marlin Parade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 0399
Dundee's Restaurant offers value and quality with fresh exotic Australian cuisisne. Whether it's seafood, steak or bush tucker (including kangaroo, crocodile and emu meat), Dundee's Restaurant makes a night out truly special.

FASTA PASTA
Cnr Sheridan & Shields Streets, Cairns
Phone (07) 4041 0388
National chain of Italian food, where you can find quick quality meals. Ideal for families, with a very laid back and informal atmosphere. Excellent value for money.

FETTA'S GREEK TAVERN
90 Grafton Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 6966
Authentic Greek Restaurant in the heart of Cairns. Affordable prices, delicious food, friendly service and fabulous decor.

FLINDERS BAR AND GRILL
Reef Hotel Casino
35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4030 8888
Flinders Bar and Grill is a casual dining and bar area situated on the ground floor of the Reef Casino. Flinders is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day whilst offering all day snacks, sandwiches and refreshments. Flinders Bar and Grill provided excellent value for money.

GOLDEN BOAT CHINESE RESTAURANT
Palm Court
30-40 Lake Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 8833
Golden Boat is a very popular Chinese restaurant among the Chinese community in Cairns. The restaurant offers a number of different dining options, including Yum Cha, A la Carte menu and a Noodle Bar open seven days a week. Their noodle menu is one of the best in Cairns.

KHIN KHAO THAI RESTAURANT
21 Aplin Street, Cairns
Phone / Fax (07) 4031 8581
Delicious and authentic Thai food. Open for lunch and dinner, offering an extensive a-la-carte menu with very affordable prices.

LA FETTUCCINA
41 Shields Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 5959
La Fettuccina restaurant is perfect to enjoy stylish and authentic Italian food while watching the world go by. Children and vegetarian are welcome, with many options to choose from. The restaurant features a licensed bar, with wine available by the glass.

THE LILLIPAD CAFÉ AND GALLERY
72 Grafton Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 9565
Vegetarian cuisine is the specialty of The Lillipad Café and Gallery. Foccacias and sandwiches are all fresh and healthy, including amongh the ingredients the famous Mungalli Creek Dairy products. The coffee is also good.

MARINADES
43 Spence Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4041 1422
Marinades offers delectable Indian cuisine with a difference. Winner of the 2005 Restaurant & Catering Queensland Awards for Excellence.

MIZUNA RESTAURANT
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort
122 Lake Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4080 1888
The dining experience at Mizuna Restaurant, in the centre of Cairns, includes a diversity of dishes from a live salad station, miniature salads on ice including fresh and marinated seafood. Children are catered for.

MONDO CAFE
34 The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4050 2000 / Fax (07) 4050 2001
The Mondo Café Bar and Grill at the Hilton Cairns hotel is a relaxed waterfront choice for alfresco dining. With Trinity Bay views, international cuisine, seafood platters and tantalizing curries. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Mondo is an award-winning establishment.

O CHA CHA
34 Lake Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 7055
Probably the most authentic Japanese restaurant in Cairns. The food is tasty and the prices very affordable and yoyu can choose from A la Carte dining or go for a set menu.

PERROTTA'S AT THE GALLERY
Cnr Abbott & Shields Streets, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 5899
Perrotta's At the Gallery is conveniently located just a few metres away from the Cairns Lagoon. Popular with locals thanks to its fine food, Perrotta's has become an icon for the weekend brunch. Enjoy al fresco dining in one of the best spots in Cairns.

PICCOLO CUCINA
92a Lake Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 5137
Piccolo Cucina is an award-wnning Italian traditional home style cooking in the heart of Cairns.

RATTLE 'n' HUM
65-67 The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 3011
Located on the Esplanade, this popular cafe and bar has a distinctive tropical appeal. With a varied but reasonable priced a la carte menu, Rattle 'n' Hum is open from 11.30am till midnight seven days a week.

THE RAW PRAWN RESTAURANT
The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 5400 / Fax (07) 4031 5326
The Raw Prawn's contemporary Australian cuisine has been developed with strong Asian influences. The vibrant flavours bring together a creative menu of seafood dishes, eclectic platters, steaks and pastas. Offering lunch specials from 11.30am to 3pm

SALT HOUSE RESTAURANT AND BAR
Marina Point, 6/2 Pierpoint Road, Cairns
Phone (07) 4041 7733 / Fax (07) 4041 5444
With indoor and outdoor spaces, Salt House boasts an open kitchen providing theatre to those dining. Located on the Cairns Marina, the views across Cairns Inlet out to the Coral Sea are punctuated only by passing yachts and sea birds.

SPLASH SEAFOOD RESTAURANT
103 The Esplanade, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 9300
Located on the Cairns Esplanade overlooking the Coral Sea, Splash Seafood Restaurant serves up the freshest of ingredients with friendly flair. Owner Malcolm McKay is a third generation fisherman, and has an eye for quality seafood.

SUSHI ZIPANG
39 Shields Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 3328
Sushi Zipang is a Japanese restaurant featuring a large a la carte menu. The restaurant is licensed and the prices are very reasonable.

TAMARIND RESTAURANT
The Hotel Reef Casino
35-41 Wharf Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4030 8888
Tamarind is the signature restaurant of the Reef Hotel Casino offering a contemporary fusion of Asian and Western cuisine. Thai artefacts and exotic décor abound to create a restaurant ambience that is totally unique. The menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons and embrace the freshest regional produce.

VILLA ROMANA
Cnr Esplanade and Aplin Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4051 9000
Villa Romana is a local restaurant which embodies the Italian sense of style and offers an essentially Italian wining and dining experience. Villa Romana incorporates a range of culinary influences from all round the Mediterranean.

WATERBAR AND GRILL
Pier Shopping Centre, Pierpoint Road, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 1199
Offering a combination of contemporary Australian and South African cuisine, The Waterbar and Grill is reknown for serving one of the best, and biggest, steaks in Cairns. The restaurant also boasts beautiful views over the Marina.

THE WOOLSHED CHAR GRILL
24 Shields Street, Cairns
Phone (07) 4031 6304
The meals provided at The Woolshed are healthy, balanced, homestyle meals in generous serves covering a wide range of tastes at reasonable prices. The restaurant is open nightly from 6pm to 9:30pm.