Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, Mooney Mooney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia
Australia’s most unique culinary experiences
Crack open fresh oysters, hunt down seasonal ingredients and enjoy dining with unbelievable views – Australia will surprise even the most discerning foodie.
Australia’s vineyards are older than you might expect. In fact, Australia has some of the world’s oldest shiraz and grenache vines. Australia’s winery stays bring you fully into the world of Aussie wine, offering tasting experiences, on-site restaurants and nights spent among the sounds of nature. From tiny houses nestled among the vines to luxury homesteads, Australia’s winery accommodation is not to be missed.
Australia boasts some of the world’s best seafood, and oysters are certainly near the top of the list. On an oyster tour, the oysters don’t come to you – you go to the oysters. Pull on a pair of rubber waders and step out into calm waters, where oysters are waiting to be plucked from their leases and shucked fresh.
Have you ever tasted finger lime? How about a witchetty grub? Australia is full of adventurous flavours you’ve never imagined. Broaden your culinary mind when you spear for mud crabs with an Aboriginal guide, collect bush tucker in the outback or sit down to fine dining dishes that make use of Australia’s native bounty.
Truffles, a savoury mushroom so rich they’re described as “black gold,” are hidden underground in several destinations across Australia. On a truffle tour (available during Australia’s winter from June to August), you’ll enlist the help of the cutest canine guides as they sniff out this delicious ingredient. After you’ve gathered your harvest, taste truffle-infused dishes that will have your mouth watering.
Australia has no shortage of picturesque picnic spots, but a white-sand cay on the Great Barrier Reef has to be one of the most beautiful. You’ll board a helicopter to see the magnificence of the reef from above before landing on a strip of sand that you and your crew will have all to yourselves.
The iconic red sand, the mighty monolith of Uluru and Aboriginal cultures that span tens of thousands of years – Australia’s Red Centre is certainly a spiritual place. You’ll feel the energy of the outback as you sit down to a meal that utilises unique desert ingredients. As the sun sets, a blanket of stars will appear over your head.
It’s no secret that Australians love going to the pub. There’s great food, local beer and a casual atmosphere perfect for catching up with mates. Take the Aussie pub to whole new heights on a helicopter pub crawl. Amazing aerial views, cold drinks and a few colourful locals are guaranteed.
Australia’s food is delicious on its own, but the views make it taste even better. With its shimmering harbour, Sydney is one of the best places to eat with a backdrop to impress. Enjoy a lunch beachside, indulge at a fine dining restaurant and even make a reservation at a restaurant inside the sails of the Sydney Opera House.
When the sun is shining, Aussies flock to the rooftops. Australia’s rooftop bars offer extensive cocktail menus, great food and all-around good vibes. Plus, the views over the city below are especially magical at sunset. Browse from a list of cocktails ranging from classic to almost too pretty to drink.
Some of Australia’s top chefs have set up shop not in the bustling city, but in peaceful regional destinations that offer delicious produce and a slower pace. These regional restaurants make use of local ingredients, working with what nature offers with each new season. The result? A menu of food so thoughtful, you’ll be thinking of it long after your plate is clean.
As an island nation, Australia is spoiled with an abundant and sustainable seafood industry. You’ll find seaside restaurants serving up the daily catch and fish markets with rows of oysters and prawns. If you want to immerse yourself even further, join a tour that takes you out into the water to taste the delights of the sea right as they’re caught.
From the well-established whiskey in Tasmania to the craft gin boom in Sydney, Australia has serious distilling chops. The Aussie spirit of innovation plays a huge part in creating new and exciting spirits, like gin infused with native green ants. Get in on the creativity by bottling your own bespoke spirit. What better souvenir to take home?
