9 Darwin Restaurants That Prove The NT Is The Next Foodie Destination

We all know Australia has one of the best food scenes around, but very few of us would consider Darwin to be a part of that foodie culture. The thing is, we’d all be wrong.

Darwin is a melting pot of cultures, which is reflected in the range of cuisines available there. It’s the foodie heaven you never realise existed, and a nice trip around the world for your tastebuds.

Here are nine restaurants you need to try next time you’re in the Northern Territory capital.

#1 Hot Tamale

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Hot Tamale (@hottamaledarwin)

With waterfront views, delish tacos and over 300 types of agave spirits (yep, that makes it the largest collection in the Southern Hemisphere), Hot Tamale is a no brainer.

#2 Moorish

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Moorish Cafe Darwin (@moorishcafedarwin)

Nothing is more fun than tapas for dinner, and Moorish have over 30 different types to choose from, all inspired by Spain, Mediterranean and North Africa.

#3 Little Miss Korea

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Little Miss Korea (@littlemisskoreadarwin)

Korean restaurants don’t get much cooler than this joint — even the laneway it’s in looks like you’ve stepped into Melbourne. Expect a modern take on Korean food, with a la carte menu of traditional dishes, DIY Korean bbq and martinis.

#4 Good Thanks Burger Bar

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Good Thanks (@goodthanksdarwin)

Booze, music, humour and amazing food? Honestly what more could your ask for. Think comfort food, with loaded fries, Spanish-style meatballs and burgers, and plenty of meat-free options available.

#5 Snapper Rocks

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by SnapperRocks (@snapper.rocks)

It’s the new kid on the block, opening just last year, but Snapper Rocks is already a local fave. Their mainly seafood menu focuses on fresh produce with a Territory-esque spin.

#6 Chow

While the menu mainly focuses on favourites from Vietnamese cuisine — like pho and laksa, whole coconuts, sake bombs and iced Vietnamese coffee — overall it’s a tasty mix of all those in South East Asia.

#7 Hanuman

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Hanuman Darwin (@hanuman_darwin)

The striking Asian-style décor and South-East Asian cuisine of Hanuman has gained it a cult local following since 1992. You’ll notice the influence of Thai, Indian and Nonya (Chinese Malay) in the menu.

#8 Mindil Beach Sunset Market

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mindil Beach Sunset Market (@mindilmarket)

Make your own choices at these sunset markets by the sea which run every May to October. Wander through arts and craft vendors, buskers and, most importantly, the food stalls —  you’ll find everything from international dishes to local delicacies, like crocodile.

#9 Darwin International Laksa Festival

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Darwin Laksa Festival (@darwinlaksafest)

Laksa is no joke in the NT, which becomes apparent when you realise they have a whole food festival dedicated to it every November.

(Lead Image: Instagram / @hottamaledarwin)