Darwin’s dining scene doesn’t mess around. It swings from laidback local legends to sleek, sea-gazing stunners without missing a beat. One night it’s Szechuan mudcrab that bites back, the next it’s handmade tortellini with Arafura Sea views. There’s Sri Lankan that’s been dialled up with Darwin edge and laksa joints that command lunchtime pilgrimages.
If you’re new here, the range might catch you off guard—in the best way. It’s a place where food trucks turn out crowd-pleasing plates, mango smoothies work overtime as tropical cool-downs and cocktails come laced with native ingredients like green ants and fresh pandan.
Whether you’re chasing frangipani-scented evenings with a view or something with that uniquely Darwin flavour, here’s where to eat in Darwin.
Read on for 20 of the best restaurants in Darwin in 2025, according to a proud local.
Pink Chopstix
Image credit: Pink Chopstix | Instagram
This flips the script on Chinese dining, blending nostalgic flavours with slick, contemporary swagger. Think delicate dumplings, punchy seafood stir-fries and plates that balance tradition with a cheeky wink. Funky and unpretentious, with harbour breeze seating and a playful menu that's already earning its spot on the Darwin dining map.
Ella By Minoli
Tucked away in one of Darwin’s less camera-ready corners in the CBD, doesn’t rely on first impressions. But step through the door, and the outside world fades fast. What hits the table is bold and unapologetically original flavours that build and surprise without repeating themselves. Take the beef cheek: slow-braised in roasted spices or the beetroot curry with a cooling hit of mint yoghurt. It’s a knockout.
Hanuman
Image credit: Hanuman | Website
Helmed by legendary chef Jimmy Shu, has been a mainstay on Darwin’s dining scene for over 30 years - and it hasn’t lost its edge. Right next to the Entertainment Centre, it’s perfect for a pre-show meal or a standout dinner on its own. The menu roams across Thailand, India and Malaysia, stitched together with NT produce and Shu’s signature precision. Favourites like steamed barramundi, tom yum soup and garlic naan with mint dip pack plenty of punch. The space is polished but inviting, with both indoor and courtyard seating. One tip: book ahead.
Snapper Rocks
Image credit: Snapper Rocks | Instagram
At the Darwin Waterfront, nails the laid-back vibe. The menu leans into fresh seafood done right: local reef fish, zippy dressings, seasonal veg - all plated with elegance. The fish wings - crispy, peri peri-spiced and made with local reef catch - are non-negotiable. Cocktails arrive with serious attention to detail and the kind of easy smile that says you're in the right place.
Dock One Bar and Food
Image credit: Dock One Bar | Instagram
is a breezy, open-air spot on the waterfront—small in size but big on charm. It’s made for sunset catch-ups, with a tight drinks list, elevated snacks and a polished-but-laidback energy. The menu covers tapas, steaks, crispy fries and indulgent desserts. Great for a drink, even better if you linger.
The Cinema Collective
Image credit: The Cinema Collective | Instagram
Housed in what was once Darwin’s first multi-screen cinema, has kept the bones and brought in the buzz. Right on Mitchell Street in the CBD, this revamped venue blends cinematic nostalgia with a plush, moody fit-out. The menu’s solid pub fare done well: steaks, ribs and crowd-pleasers that land with flavour and zero fuss.
Moorish
You don’t often hear of Mediterranean and North African fusion in restaurants around town, but the clever chefs at manage to perfectly concoct these distinct cultures into one incredible menu bringing Spanish tapas into the 21st century with some stellar dishes. Focused on fresh seasonal produce, these punchy dishes and the moody atmosphere are the perfect antidote to a hectic work week stepping out for date night or a cheeky catch up with your besties.
Chow
Image credit: Chow | Website
Bright, bold and buzzing with energy, serves up South-East Asian street food with zero fuss and plenty of flavour. Set in the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, it’s a go-to for both lunch and dinner - casual, colourful and always lively. Inside is loud in the best way; outside, there’s space to catch the breeze and watch the world go by.
Pee Wee’s At The Point
If there’s one restaurant in Darwin that nails the trifecta - views, food, atmosphere - it’s Set inside East Point Nature Reserve, just 10 minutes from the CBD, it’s easily the city’s most elegant dining experience. Wide windows frame sweeping sea views, tables are generously spaced and every detail feels considered. The menu leans into native ingredients and local seafood - like wild-caught barramundi with miso sweet potato cream and pistachio salsa. There’s a serious wine list for those making a night of it and a lounge area perfect for a drink and a cheese plate.
Phat Mango
This constantly-evolving menu based on seasonality and availability loves to push the boundaries when it comes to delicious and extremely aesthetically-pleasing plates that will never fail to amaze guests upon their first visit to . With a huge focus towards heavenly local seafood (think Coffin Bay oysters, Gulf of Carpentaria prawns and marinated NT spanish mackerel), this restaurant delivers a stunning unparalleled dining experience that will stay in your memory long after the meal finishes.
The O.A.K
(Original Australian Kitchen) restaurant has become a local fave for its endless slew of unbeatable Aussie cuisine that utilises that very finest local produce from around our beautiful land.
Using cooking techniques from across our melting pot of traditions and backgrounds, there’s plenty of high quality meat, seafood straight from the ocean and lots of vego options meaning the whole gang is catered for. With simple chic interiors housed in the Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel, you know you’re in for a breezy relaxed meal with friends here that will always leave you satisfied.
Il Piatto
Craving a little taste of Italy? They’ve got you sorted at Il Piatto nestled into Mindil Beach Casino Resort. Chef Carmine Labbozzetta pays homage to her childhood believing the best dishes are rustic and cooked with love, which is exactly what she does with each meal served—whether you’re keen for something fired over the grill or baked in one of the two gorgeous open hearth wood fired ovens, there’s plenty of classics and new modern twists that the entire family will devour.
Char
Unsurprisingly as the name suggests, is all about beautiful quality ingredients licked by fire to unveil the true beauty and flavour of each plate without all the frills. This modern Australian steakhouse overlooking Darwin Harbour has created a super moody intimate atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a cheeky date night with your beloved.
Read on for the best things to do Darwin.
Image credit: OB真人视讯, Ella By Minoli, Moorish, Yots, Hot Tamale, Hanuman, Pee Wee’s At The Point, Phat Mango, Chow, Char