Top 3 Places to Eat in Kakadu National Park

Kangaroo standing on grassy field in Belair, Australia. Capturing wildlife in natural habitat.
Ryan Vand, Pexels

The culinary scene within Kakadu National Park primarily revolves around the lodges and hotels, offering convenient dining experiences that cater to visitors exploring the park's natural and cultural wonders, with a focus on Australian cuisine often featuring local ingredients.

1. Mimi's Restaurant & Barra Bar

Cuisine: Modern Australian with Native Ingredients / Bistro & Takeaway

Situated at Cooinda Lodge, Mimi's Restaurant provides a refined indoor dining experience, offering a menu inspired by the Australian Outback and incorporating native ingredients. For a more casual atmosphere, the adjacent Barra Bar & Bistro offers alfresco dining under fairy lights, perfect for families. One can also find convenient, kid-friendly takeaway from 'Too Deadly Takeaway'. The focus here is on celebrating local flavours like barramundi, crocodile, and kangaroo, alongside familiar favourites. It's a versatile spot, from a romantic dinner at Mimi's to a relaxed meal by the pool at Barra Bar.

Price: AUD $25 - $60+ per person (Main dishes). Buffet Breakfast: AUD $38 (Adult), AUD $15 (Child). Takeaway options are generally more affordable.

Getting There: Located within Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, near the Yellow Water Billabong. It is easily accessible by car, and tour groups often stop here.

2. Manjmukmuk Restaurant

Cuisine: Australian & International with Local Flair

Found within the distinctive Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel in Jabiru, Manjmukmuk Restaurant offers a comfortable setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu here includes Australian dishes, with a notable emphasis on incorporating native ingredients such as crocodile and kangaroo, providing a taste of the Top End. It is a suitable option for families and couples seeking quality meals after a day of exploration. Reviews frequently highlight the quality of the food and the attentive staff.

Price: AUD $35 - $70+ per person (Main dishes). Expect prices to be on the higher side due to the remote location.

Getting There: Located within the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel in Jabiru. It is central to Jabiru and accessible by car.

3. Poolside Bar & Bistro (Aurora Kakadu Lodge)

Cuisine: Bistro Style / Australian Pub Fare

Set within the Aurora Kakadu Lodge in Jabiru, this Poolside Bar & Bistro provides a relaxed, tropical atmosphere for diners. It serves bistro-style meals with a selection of classic Australian favourites and local meats. It's an excellent choice for a casual, comfortable meal, particularly appealing to families and those staying at the lodge or nearby, offering good food at reasonable prices. The poolside setting adds to a pleasant dining experience.

Price: AUD $20 - $45 per person (Main dishes).

Getting There: Located at Aurora Kakadu Lodge, Jabiru Drive, Jabiru. It is easily accessible by car within Jabiru.