Top 5 Places to Eat in Darwin

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Tranquil beach scene with trees framing a serene ocean view in Darwin, Australia.
Kellie Jane, Pexels

Darwin's culinary landscape is a delightful fusion of tropical and multicultural influences, offering a diverse range of dining experiences from elegant waterfront restaurants to bustling street food markets.

1. Pee Wee's at the Point

Cuisine: Modern Australian, Seafood

Nestled in the East Point Nature Reserve, Pee Wee's provides an unforgettable fine dining experience with stunning panoramic views over Fannie Bay. The menu thoughtfully highlights fresh, local Territory produce, including wild-caught barramundi and native bush-spiced kangaroo. It is an ideal setting for a special occasion or a memorable evening meal, complemented by an award-winning wine list.

Price: Approximately AUD $60+ per person for a main course

Getting There: Located outside the city centre, a taxi ride from the main area would be recommended. Expect a taxi fare to be around AUD $20-$30, depending on traffic and time of day.

2. Hanuman

Cuisine: Southeast Asian (Thai, Indian, Malaysian)

A long-standing institution in Darwin, Hanuman consistently delivers exquisite Southeast Asian flavours. The restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance with beautiful Asian wood carvings indoors, or a breezy covered outdoor space. Signature dishes include the lemongrass-spiked oysters and a variety of curries and stir-fries, making it perfect for a date night or a group dining adventure.

Price: Approximately AUD $70+ per person for a proper meal without drinks; main courses typically AUD $27-$38.

Getting There: Situated on Mitchell Street in the CBD, Hanuman is within walking distance from many central hotels and attractions. Public buses are currently free within the Greater Darwin Region.

3. Moorish Cafe

Cuisine: Spanish, Mediterranean Tapas

Moorish Cafe offers a vibrant atmosphere with a focus on shared plates inspired by Spain, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. The menu features an extensive selection of tapas, including options with a Territory twist like NT Jewfish and Berbere spiced kangaroo. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxed lunch or a lively dinner with friends, enjoying a glass of sangria with your meal.

Price: Lunch special (3 tapas + sangria) for AUD $30; individual tapas and mains vary.

Getting There: Located in Darwin's CBD, it is easily accessible on foot from central areas. Public buses are currently free within the Greater Darwin Region.

4. Snapper Rocks

Cuisine: Seafood, Modern Australian

Found at the Darwin Waterfront, Snapper Rocks provides a relaxed indoor and outdoor dining experience by the water. The menu prominently features fresh, local seafood, including wild-caught barramundi and snapper, as well as creative dishes like salt and pepper crocodile. It’s an excellent choice for a casual yet quality meal with refreshing drinks.

Price: Estimated cost around AUD $30-$50 per person for a main meal.

Getting There: Snapper Rocks is located at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, which is easily walkable from the CBD. A free Waterfront Shuttle Bus also operates daily within the precinct.

5. Parap Village Markets

Cuisine: Asian Street Food, International

A must-visit Saturday morning (8 AM - 2 PM) destination, the Parap Village Markets offer an authentic taste of Darwin's multiculturalism. Here, you can wander among stalls serving a vast array of affordable Asian delights, notably the famous laksa, alongside other international and local treats. It’s a bustling, colourful market perfect for a casual breakfast or lunch, offering a true local experience.

Price: Finger foods typically AUD $2.20-$3.00, meal-sized dishes AUD $6.00-$8.00.

Getting There: Located in the inner suburb of Parap. The Route 4 bus provides direct access from Darwin City, with public bus services currently free until at least June 30, 2025. Alternatively, a taxi from the city would take approximately 5-10 minutes and cost around AUD $10.50-$13.50.

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