Cairns is famous for its fresh local ingredients, diverse cuisine, and welcoming dining experiences. From seafood to global flavors, the city’s restaurants cater to every taste and occasion.
Keep reading to discover the 10 best restaurants in Cairns, each offering exceptional food and a memorable atmosphere.
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ToggleTop 10 Restaurants in Cairns
1. Prawn Star Cairns

Prawn Star Cairns is a standout seafood restaurant offering a dining experience like no other on a floating restaurant docked at Marlin Marina. The seafood is sourced directly from local trawlers, guaranteeing unmatched freshness and quality. The setting is casual and inviting, with communal tables and soft fairy lights that create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
The menu focuses on simple yet delicious dishes that let the natural flavors of the seafood shine. Diners can enjoy generous platters of prawns, oysters, and crayfish while soaking in views of the marina. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe makes it an excellent choice for unwinding with friends or family.
Why Visit: Prawn Star is one of the best restaurants in Cairns, combining unbeatable freshness, waterfront charm, and straightforward, flavorful dishes for a memorable seafood experience.
Address: Pier Point Road, Marlin Marina, E31 Berth, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: The Sailor’s Platter is a crowd favorite, featuring a generous selection of local seafood, including prawns, oysters, and crayfish. This dish is perfect for sharing with a group and highlights the natural flavors of the freshest catch. Pair it with a chilled local wine for the ultimate tropical meal.
2. Tamarind

Tamarind, located in the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, is a fine-dining restaurant offering Asian fusion cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Known for its quiet and sophisticated atmosphere, Tamarind restaurant provides a refined setting that is ideal for special occasions, romantic dinners, or corporate events.
The menu features seasonal dishes that highlight the best of Tropical North Queensland’s produce. The chefs skillfully balance flavors and textures, ensuring each dish is visually appealing and satisfying. Guests can also enjoy pairing their meals with a carefully curated selection of wines and beverages.
Why Visit: Tamarind combines an elegant dining experience with creative seasonal dishes that showcase local ingredients.
Address: 6-8 Abbott Street, Cairns City, QLD 4870
Must-Try: The duck fat potatoes are a customer favorite, offering a crispy and indulgent side. The pork belly from the degustation menu is rich, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a standout choice.
3. Salt House

Salt House is a waterfront restaurant located at Marina Point, offering stunning views of the Coral Sea. The open-air design allows guests to enjoy the tropical breeze while dining. The restaurant’s centerpiece is its Argentinian wood-fired grill, which imparts smoky, rich flavors to its dishes. Known for its lively yet relaxed atmosphere, Salt House is a favorite for both special celebrations and casual get-togethers.
The bar complements the dining experience with a wide selection of creative cocktails, local craft beers, and an extensive wine list. Live music often adds to the vibrant energy, making it a top choice for an enjoyable evening in Cairns.
Why Visit: Salt House combines excellent food, picturesque views, and a lively ambiance, making it suitable for any occasion.
Address: Marina Point, 6/2 Pier Point Road, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: The dry-aged tomahawk steak is a crowd-pleaser, cooked to perfection on the wood-fired grill. Seafood lovers will enjoy the deluxe seafood board, featuring a generous selection of fresh, locally sourced seafood.
4. Nu Nu Restaurant

Nu Nu Restaurant is located in Palm Cove and offers a beachfront dining experience like no other. Guests can enjoy their meals with their feet in the sand while taking in panoramic views of the Coral Sea. The restaurant focuses on modern Australian cuisine, highlighting fresh, local ingredients sourced from the surrounding region, including tropical fruits, native herbs, and premium seafood.
The ambiance is both relaxing and elegant, making it an ideal choice for romantic dinners, family gatherings, or a memorable meal with friends. Nu Nu serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring there’s always an opportunity to enjoy their creative and flavorful dishes.
Why Visit: Nu Nu stands out for its unbeatable beachfront location and commitment to showcasing the flavors of Tropical North Queensland through seasonal menus.
Address: 1 Veivers Road, Palm Cove, QLD
Must-Try: The Moreton Bay bugs with tropical salsa are a highlight, perfectly paired with a refreshing local cocktail. Don’t miss their tropical-inspired desserts for a sweet finish to your meal.
5. Dundee’s at the Aquarium

Dundee’s at the Aquarium offers a unique dining experience with a 70,000-litre marine aquarium as the backdrop. The large aquarium creates an engaging environment, especially for families with children. Guests can enjoy watching marine life while dining on a wide variety of dishes.
The menu includes options for all tastes, from fresh seafood to premium steaks and pasta dishes. The setting is spacious and comfortable, making it suitable for family outings or casual meals. Dundee’s restaurant also caters to dietary needs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests.
Why Visit: The combination of high-quality food and a marine aquarium setting makes Dundee’s a standout choice for families or anyone looking for a unique dining spot.
Address: 5 Florence Street, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: The seafood chowder served in a crusty cob loaf is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a signature dish that guests often rave about.
6. NOA

NOA, located in the leafy suburb of Edge Hill, is a popular restaurant known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of share plates designed for casual dining with friends or family. These small plates highlight bold flavors and creative combinations, making them a favorite among both locals and visitors.
The restaurant’s outdoor deck provides a comfortable and inviting space to relax. Guests can enjoy their meals while listening to live music on select evenings, adding to the vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. NOA is also well-regarded for its friendly service and welcoming environment.
Why Visit: NOA combines fresh, flavorful food with a relaxed setting, perfect for gatherings or casual outings.
Address: 1 Pyne Street, Edge Hill, QLD
Must-Try: Their bao nights are a highlight, offering unlimited buns stuffed with a variety of flavorful fillings. Pair them with one of their refreshing cocktails for a complete experience.
7. Le Petit Chef

Le Petit Chef provides a dining experience like no other in Cairns. Using 3D projection technology, an animated chef appears on your table, narrating stories while guiding you through each course of the meal. The experience blends visual storytelling with gourmet food, creating an entertaining and immersive environment.
The menu features a range of multi-course meals inspired by French cuisine. Each dish is carefully prepared and served in sync with the animation, ensuring a seamless dining experience. The restaurant is perfect for families, groups, or anyone looking for something fun and different.
Why Visit: The combination of creative visuals and delicious food makes Le Petit Chef a memorable experience for all ages.
Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 121-123 Esplanade, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: Opt for the Classic French-inspired menu, which features dishes designed to complement the chef’s animated storytelling.
8. Flynn’s Italian

Flynn’s Italian by Crystalbrook, located in the Crystalbrook Flynn, serves hearty Italian cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant offers a communal dining experience with an open seating layout that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The menu features classic Italian recipes with a modern twist, focusing on bold flavors and high-quality ingredients that celebrate authentic Italian flavours. Flynn’s Italian is a great choice for families, groups, or anyone craving Italian dishes in a relaxed yet lively setting.
Why Visit: Flynn’s Italian combines traditional Italian cooking with local produce, creating flavorful dishes in a welcoming environment.
Address: Level 1/85 Esplanade, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: Enjoy their house-made ravioli, filled with rich and flavorful ingredients. End your meal with their creamy tiramisu, a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
9. Bury Me Standing

Bury Me Standing is a unique vegan café known for its freshly baked bagels and Polish-inspired pastries. The café places a strong emphasis on sustainability, using locally caught flavors through partnerships with regional producers, alongside locally sourced ingredients and compostable packaging. The cozy interior and friendly atmosphere make it a welcoming spot for breakfast, brunch, or a casual coffee break.
The menu features a variety of sweet and savory options, including bagel sandwiches stuffed with fresh vegetables, spreads, and plant-based proteins. Their pastries, like cinnamon rolls and Polish doughnuts, are a customer favorite.
Why Visit: Bury Me Standing combines delicious vegan food with a commitment to sustainability, offering a dining experience that is both flavorful and environmentally conscious.
Address: 49-51 Spence Street, Shop G, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: Indulge in their warm, gooey cinnamon rolls or one of their hearty bagel sandwiches, paired with a freshly brewed coffee or tea.
10. Ganbaranba

Ganbaranba is a cozy Japanese eatery in Cairns that focuses on authentic ramen dishes. The restaurant is popular for its fast service, affordable prices, and consistent quality. Locals frequently visit for its flavorful broths and perfectly cooked noodles, making it a go-to spot for casual dining.
One of Ganbaranba’s standout features is the ability to customise your ramen bowl. Guests can select their preferred noodle texture and adjust the richness or intensity of the broth to suit their taste. The menu also includes side dishes like crispy gyoza, which complement the ramen perfectly.
Why Visit: Ganbaranba offers quick, delicious Japanese meals with customisable options, making it a favorite for a satisfying and hassle-free dining experience.
Address: 7/12-20 Spence Street, Cairns City, QLD
Must-Try: The house-special ramen, with a rich and savory broth, is a top choice. Pair it with an order of golden-brown gyoza for a complete meal.
What’s Next?
After enjoying Cairns’ best restaurants, dive into its vibrant nightlife with our article on the best nightclubs in Cairns. Discover the hottest spots to unwind, dance, and create unforgettable memories in this lively city!
Looking to upgrade your outdoor space? Explore premium options with Cairns Fencing Specialists for fencing that blends style and function seamlessly.
FAQs
Are Cairns restaurants kid-friendly?
Yes, many restaurants like Dundee’s at the Aquarium and NOA have kid-friendly menus and settings.
Do Cairns restaurants cater to dietary restrictions?
Most do. Vegan options are available at Bury Me Standing, while NOA and Tamarind offer gluten-free dishes.
What is the average cost of dining in Cairns?
Casual meals, like those at Ganbaranba, start around $13. Mid-range restaurants average $30–$70 per main, while fine dining at Nu Nu or Tamarind can cost $80–$150.
What ingredients are common in Cairns dishes?
Seafood, tropical fruits, and native Australian ingredients like kangaroo and wattleseed feature prominently.
Are there any hidden gem restaurants in Cairns?
Yes, Bury Me Standing and Ganbaranba are well-loved by locals for their unique offerings.
What’s the best time to visit these restaurants?
Early evening is ideal for waterfront spots like Salt House, especially for sunset views.