Tan Li AnnAustralia is a land of endless horizons, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures, making its food scene equally diverse and dynamic. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for gourmet delights or an adventurer hungry for new experiences, Australia’s culinary landscape offers something for everyone.
From hidden gems tucked away in nature to world-class festivals, here’s your guide to some seriously mouthwatering Aussie experiences that will make your getaway unforgettable!
Heli-foraging for native gin ingredients in the Northern Territory
Image credit: Nautilus Heli Pub Tour, Northern Territory © Tourism NT / Mark Fitzpatrick
Ready to elevate your farm-to-fork game? Heli-foraging, anyone? Take to the skies with this unique adventure by Darwin Distilling Co. This one-of-a-kind experience blends the thrill of helicopter travel with bespoke gin-making. Soar over the Northern Territory’s rugged beauty, heading towards Finniss River Lodge, a sanctuary nestled within untamed beauty.
Image credit: Finniss River Lodge, Northern Territory © Tourism NT / Helen Orr
Then you’ll hop into an ATV or airboat (depending on the season), collecting native botanicals like Quinine, Ti Tree, and Paperbark. Once you’ve harvested the plants, you’ll be whisked off to Darwin Distilling Co., where you’ll craft your premium gin, experimenting with the native botanicals you gathered. While the distilling process works its magic, indulge in a gourmet lunch at Charlies of Darwin before finishing the experience with a glass of your bespoke gin and a take-home 500ml bottle.
Image credit: Sandy Creek Falls, Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory © Tourism NT / Joshua Griffen
For a more immersive experience, top off this foraging journey with a personal tour led by the head distiller, where you’ll gain expert insights into harvesting native botanicals and crafting spirits. Alternatively, experience a VIP landing on top of Sandy Creek Falls! Take in the soothing sounds of the cascading falls as you swim, explore the surroundings, and indulge in a delicious picnic lunch in this idyllic setting.
Dive for your seafood in South Australia
Image credit: Australian Coastal Safari, Eyre Peninsula, South Australia © Tourism Australia
Get hands-on with your seafood when you head over to South Australia’s Seafood Foraging Day Tour in Port Lincoln, a city on the Eyre Peninsula. Instead of just picking up your catch at a local market, you’ll be out in the wild, foraging for fresh cockles, abalone, and Australian Salmon along the stunning coastline. Get up close to the ocean, and see where your food really comes from — it’s as immersive as it gets!
As you revel in the thrill of the hunt, unwind by the beach as your Australian Coastal Safari host prepares a mouthwatering BBQ seafood lunch. Picture yourself overlooking the tranquil waters as you enjoy a meal while taking in the refreshing sea breeze. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply in search of a memorable adventure, this tour truly promises an unforgettable day.
TripZilla Tip: This foraging expedition can double up as a coastal wildlife safari — spot dolphins and sea lions along the way!
Sophistication by the Victorian Sea at Beach House Brighton, Melbourne
Image credit: Brighton Beach, Melbourne, Victoria © Visit Victoria / Accordion
When you’re craving something casual yet delicious, Beach House Brighton by Dendy Street Beach is the spot to be. Just steps away from the iconic Brighton Bathing Boxes, located about 11 kilometres southeast of Melbourne‘s city centre, you can dig into fresh seafood like king prawn rolls and octopus, or enjoy the ultimate beachside fish and chips. The colourful and charming bathing boxes make the perfect photo backdrop for your meal and pictures, while the relaxed atmosphere makes this place feel like a hidden gem — one that locals love and visitors adore.
Savour the best of Sunshine Coast, Queensland at The Curated Plate Food and Drink Festival
Image credit: The Curated Plate 2023, Queensland © Tourism and Events Queensland
For an unforgettable celebration of fresh Australian cuisine, the Sunshine Coast’s The Curated Plate is where you want to be. Held from 25 July to 3 August this year on Queensland’s picturesque Sunshine Coast, this festival is a love letter to the region’s mouth-watering gastronomy. Enjoy intimate dining experiences with top chefs, explore bustling farmers’ markets filled with award-winning local produce, and immerse in the festival’s unique atmosphere as events unfold in breathtaking locations, from tranquil beaches and lush hinterlands to the awe-inspiring Glass House Mountains.
Plus, it’s a celebration of the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples, the traditional custodians of the land, so you can enjoy this unique opportunity to appreciate and support the rich cultural history of the region.
Farm-to-table magic at Beltana Farm, Canberra
Image credit: Beltana Farm, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra / Lean Timms
Just a short trip from Canberra in the charming Pialligo region, Beltana Farm serves up an experience that’s as fresh as it gets! Picture this: dining in a cosy yurt or inside a rustic restaurant with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that frame the beautiful Beltana Farm. You gaze out at the landscape as exquisite dishes such as charcoal beetroot skewers, truffle and cuttlefish salami, and fresh Merimbula Lake oysters are served up.
Image credit: Beltana Farm, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory © VisitCanberra
For those who love a bit of adventure (and deliciousness), join the truffle hunt on crisp winter mornings and explore the farm’s 800-plus truffle trees. Learn from skilled truffle hunters about the science and artistry behind this prized ingredient, and even participate in harvesting these rare delicacies — it’s a perfect retreat for food lovers and nature enthusiasts!
A taste of Tasmania at Devil’s Corner’s Moulting Lagoon Experience
Image credit: Devil’s Corner Cellar Door, Tasmania © Tourism Australia
Tasmania is known for its crisp air, fertile soils, and clean waters — ingredients that make for exceptional food and wine. The Moulting Lagoon Experience by Devil’s Corner invites you to explore Tasmania’s East Coast, with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hazards Vineyard and Moulting Lagoon. This scenic and immersive experience is the perfect way to taste Tasmania’s rich culinary culture and enjoy its unspoiled natural beauty.
Image credit: Devil’s Corner Cellar Door, Tasmania © Tourism Australia
Start your adventure with a scenic ride through the vineyard, where you’ll learn about its history and unique varieties, before heading to Moulting Lagoon for an oyster shucking demonstration from the back of a ute. Afterwards, feast on a gourmet lunch at The Devil’s Den while sipping on premium wines. The adventure is more than just a tour — it’s an invitation to slow down, savour the moment, and fully embrace Tasmania’s rich natural beauty and food culture. Trust us, this is an experience you won’t forget!
A seafood lover’s dream on the Tweed Valley Seafood Cruise of New South Wales
Image credit: Tweed Valley, Murwillumbah, New South Wales © Destination NSW
If you’re all about seafood, Tweed Valley is calling your name! This stunning 2.5-hour Seafood Selection Cruise by Tweed Escapes is a game-changer. First, get ready to be blown away by the views. As you cruise the waters, you’re treated to lush green hills, tranquil rivers, and the imposing Wollumbin Mount Warning standing tall in the distance. The valley’s volcanic roots create a one-of-a-kind landscape that’s not only beautiful but also feeds into the region’s rich ecosystem.
As you drift along the river, the serene surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for what’s to come. Indulge in a delectable selection of Tweed Coast prawns, Sydney Rock oysters, and Tasmanian smoked salmon, all expertly prepared by local chefs with a passion for bringing out the best of this coastal paradise. Each bite is a celebration of the region’s finest seafood, allowing you to savour the freshness of the ocean while taking in the stunning vistas.
TripZilla Tip: Not a fan of seafood? No worries! Just let them know in advance, and you’ll have a non-seafood option waiting for you.
Innovation and flavour at Ah Um, Perth
Image credit: Ah Um | Official Instagram
Last but definitely not least, for something that truly captures the senses, head to Ah Um, nestled in Northbridge and within minutes of Perth’s city centre. This restaurant blends bold, modern flavours with native Australian ingredients in ways you’ve never imagined. With a menu that boasts both boldness and minimalism, you can expect to explore Australia’s native ingredients in a fresh, modern way. Here, you can find everything from raw beef paired with a Japanese fermented chilli paste to roast scallops with capsicum from France!
The vibe is just as special, with an acoustically optimised dining space where curated dining soundtracks play from AW Radio – an online streaming platform recently launched by sister bar Astral Weeks. This innovative approach to cuisine makes Ah Um a must-visit for those looking for something truly distinctive in Perth’s dining scene.
Australia’s culinary landscape is like a patchwork quilt, stitched together with the rich culture, fresh produce, and unique dining experiences peppered across the country. Whether you’re foraging for fresh seafood in South Australia, indulging in gourmet dishes in Tasmania, or exploring the rich culture of regional festivals in Queensland, each experience is a celebration of the country’s natural beauty and exceptional produce. No matter where your adventure takes you, these unforgettable culinary journeys promise to be a feast for the senses — a true reflection of Australia’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.
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Brought to you by Tourism Australia
