Foodie experiences in Darwin & surrounds3-day itinerary

Prepare your senses for a culinary experience over three days in the tropics of Darwin. Blending its close proximity to Asia with waters brimming with fresh catches and locally sourced native ingredients – the Northern Territory has mastered the flavours of contemporary cuisine.

Day 1

Start your foodie adventure in the tropical capital of Darwin with breakfast at Laneway Specialty Coffee in Parap. Visiting on a Saturday? Double up the morning by swapping out your smashed avocado for a laksa from Mary’s Laksa at Parap Markets. Parap Shopping Village is dotted with art galleries and local boutiques – a worthwhile visit anytime during the week.

After filling up, head to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory to learn on Larrakia country by discovering the region’s cultural influences, military history and natural disasters that have all shaped what the city looks like today. Be sure to have lunch overlooking the harbour at Saltwater @ Bundilla located at the museum.

This afternoon, continue the culinary journey on a walking tour with Darwin Gourmet Tours, a great way to familiarise yourself with the city’s best local eats. End the evening with a night cap at a recommended city bar from your tour guide or check out these food and drink options.

Day 2

Today, plan well ahead to organise your travel outside of Darwin for a day out on the water. A fishing charter is a must when visiting the Top End of the NT. Get the full experience on a catch and cook trip with an expert guide on Mary River or Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu. Book a trip with Wildman Fishing Tours or Kakadu Fishing Tours with departures leaving from Cooinda Lodge. After reeling in a fish, perhaps an elusive infamous barramundi, settle in for the evening with your catch of the day cooked to perfection over a glass of wine.

As an option for those who aren’t fishing enthusiasts, jump on a bush tucker tour with Offroad Dreaming. Travel to Berry Springs, a 40-minute drive outside of Darwin, to walk through the monsoon rainforest and taste hand-picked bush foods from the surrounding area. Tee up the visit with a refreshing swim.

Day 3

On your last day in the tropical metropolis of Darwin, pick a café that takes your fancy. You may choose Sweet Brew in Stuart Park for its ham and cheese toasted croissants; sit in the leafy outdoor area and dive into a plate of waffles at Ray’s Café and Patisserie or enjoy the breeze while sipping on a frappe and fritters at Nightcliff Foreshore Café.

If you’re looking to take a few tastes of the Territory home with you, visit Aboriginal Bush Traders on The Esplanade. The not-for-profit organisation uses local suppliers to stock native ingredients and sells Aboriginal art with funds going directly back into communities.

For the grand finale, take a sunset cruise around Darwin Harbour. Whether it’s a champagne sunset on catamaran with Sail Darwin, seafood buffet on a Darwin Harbour Cruise or sit down to a three-course meal on Cape Adieu Harbour Cruises.