Eat Like a Local in Airlie Beach

Eat Like a Local in Airlie Beach

Not only does Airlie beach have beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and a plethora of water-based activities, it’s home to some amazing restaurants and cafes. There is a range of dining options and cuisines to tantalise everyone’s tastebuds. Discover the best places to dine when visiting Airlie Beach and experience the local flavours on offer.

1. Cool La La

Head on over to Cool La La for some Asian Fusion cuisine.

This funky little restaurant is located off the main street in Airlie Beach. The chefs use traditional Asian techniques and flavours, delivered with a modern twist. It’s also popular for its bubble tea – a refreshing drink on a hot summer’s day.

2. Garuma

For a European style breakfast, lunch, and a good coffee, you can’t go past Garuma. Their menu has many European dishes as well as some classic comfort foods.

Heavily influenced by a combination of German and Portuguese flavours, you will find traditional meals like Weisswurst, Potato Rosti, and Bratwurst which is bound to get you salivating.

3. KC’s Bar & Grill

This is the place to be to enjoy live music, a cold beer, and a good feed.

The menu has a combination of chargrilled steaks, burgers, salads, chicken wings, chicken parmigiana and their signature dish, the Australian Game Testing Platter which is a mix of kangaroo, crocodile, emu, and buffalo.

4. Mika Airlie

For a taste of Latin-Oz, Hispanic vibes, and an unbeatable rooftop view overlooking Airlie Beach, look no further than Mika Airlie. It’s great for tapas and cocktails after a day exploring the beautiful beaches in the Whitsundays. 

5. Fish D’vine and Rum Bar

Enjoy an authentic taste of the Whitsundays at Fish D’vine and Rum Bar.

This award-winning venue has plenty of local seafood on the menu that flows with the seasons. Finish up with a refreshing cocktail at the Rum Bar where the bar staff believe there is a rum for everyone.   

6. La Tabella Trattoria

Embrace the Italian style long lunch or communal dinner in the heart of Airlie Beach. Positioned on the beachfront, enjoy Al Fresco dining whilst experiencing traditional Italian flavours and locally caught seafood.

You can’t leave without trying the Limoncello which is crafted by the restaurant owner from organic lemons grown in her home garden.

7. Anchor Bar

Enjoy this laid-back vibe whilst taking in the views of the surrounding bay and islands. On Sundays, they have live music which is popular for both locals and tourists.

The menu has a range of dishes created by amazing chefs, local fresh produce and speciality imported goods. You will find burgers, salads seafood and more accompanied by a wide range of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits.  

8. 20 Degrees South Bar & Restaurant

20 Degrees South is a restaurant within the Whitsundays Sailing Club. With breathtaking views of the ocean, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a pub feed with a cold beverage.

There is something here for everyone with a range of seafood, steak, salads, and kids’ meals. The perfect place to end your busy day exploring the stunning Whitsundays.

9. Fat Frog Beach Cafe

This funky little café has a friendly and unique vibe and a delicious, wholesome menu.

Located in Cannonvale Beach, you will enjoy views of the ocean whilst taking in that beautiful sea breeze. They use the freshest ingredients and present each meal as a work of art. It’s not hard to see why this is a local favourite.

10. Paradiso Rooftop Restaurant and Bar

At Paradiso Rooftop Restaurant and Bar, you will find a unique blend of cuisines from around the world served as tapas-style dishes as well as pasta, pizza and more.

It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is a great spot to listen to some live music, enjoy a cocktail or two whilst looking over Airlie Beach from the rooftop bar.

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