Top 5 Places to Eat in Airlie Beach

Stunning aerial view of Airlie Beach coastline in Queensland, Australia, showcasing lush greenery and turquoise waters.
Ahmed Photography, Pexels

Airlie Beach's dining scene is shaped by its coastal location, emphasizing fresh seafood and local produce within a mix of international and modern Australian cuisines, appealing to families, couples, and a younger, social crowd.

1. Eastwoods Dining

Cuisine: Southeast Asian Fusion

Located on the Airlie Esplanade, Eastwoods Dining provides an elegant setting with stunning ocean views. It offers a contemporary take on Southeast Asian cuisine with adventurous flavours and innovative dishes, designed for sharing. Notable dishes include the Penang curry with coconut braised beef, complemented by a selection of cocktails. The atmosphere is effortlessly chic, yet retains a relaxed North Queensland feel where casual attire is welcome.

Price: AUD 40-70 per person (main course)

Getting There: Easily walkable from most accommodations in central Airlie Beach.

2. Fish D'Vine & Rum Bar

Cuisine: Fresh Seafood with a Caribbean influence

A long-standing independent restaurant in Airlie Beach, Fish D'Vine is renowned for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced seafood, including coral trout and mud crabs. Beyond its delectable seafood, the venue is famous for its extensive Rum Bar, boasting over 150 types of rum and a wide array of rum-based cocktails. It provides a lively, yet casual atmosphere, ideal for those looking to indulge in the region's aquatic bounty.

Price: AUD 30-60 per person (main course); seafood platters can be more

Getting There: Situated on the Airlie Esplanade, it is within walking distance from the main area.

3. Paradiso Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian, Spanish, Modern Australian Tapas

As the only rooftop bar in Airlie Beach, Paradiso offers breathtaking panoramic views over the lagoon and foreshore, providing a unique dining experience. The menu features a diverse range of tapas-style dishes alongside Italian pizzas, pastas, and Greek boards, perfect for sharing. It boasts an impressive cocktail menu, making it an excellent spot for sunset drinks and a vibrant, social atmosphere.

Price: AUD 25-50 per person (tapas/main)

Getting There: Centrally located on the Esplanade, easily accessible by foot.

4. Anchor Bar

Cuisine: Modern Australian Pub Fare

Perched on a hill above Airlie Beach, Anchor Bar offers stunning elevated sea views over the Whitsunday Islands. It features a relaxed, pub-style menu with hearty options like burgers, tacos, and 'surf and turf,' as well as an option for a 'can't decide' platter. Guests can enjoy a casual feed by the poolside, making it a favorite among locals and a great spot for families.

Price: AUD 20-40 per person

Getting There: While on a hill, it is generally accessible by foot from the main area. A taxi from the Marina is recommended for convenience due to the uphill walk.

5. Cafe One 3

Cuisine: Healthy Cafe, Vegetarian & Vegan Friendly

Just a short stroll from the main street, Cafe One 3 is a charming spot known for its healthy, farm-to-table dining. It specializes in vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals, though meat options are also available. The cafe offers a welcoming, shady outdoor setting with fresh, colourful dishes, excellent coffee, and friendly service. It is a great choice for an affordable and wholesome breakfast or lunch.

Price: AUD 8-20 per person

Getting There: A short walk from the main street of Airlie Beach.