In Tropical North Queensland, maybe recognisable for its palm trees, beaches and laid-back lifestyle, but you shouldn’t underestimate the region’s food scene.
Whether you’re craving succulent seafood plucked from the ocean, or locally sourced meats infused with indigenous ingredients, your taste buds are in for a real treat in Port Douglas.
In this guide you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Port Douglas from breakfast to lunch, open-air dinners and drinks.
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Where to eat breakfast in Port Douglas
Grant Street Kitchen
Sometimes a casual brekkie spot is exactly what you need. Grant Street Kitchen is one of those easy-going places where you can have a home-made meal or a sweet treat.
Try its made-from-scratch artisan breads and delicious sandwiches, salads, smoothies and consistently good coffee. With a casual, street-side feel and a steady mix of locals and travellers, it’s an excellent option for a great brekkie or a light lunch.
St. Crispins Cafe & Events
If you’re up for trying the best restaurants with a view in Port Douglas, St. Crispin’s needs to be on your list. Set along the old Bally Hooley railway line, the space was once used to transport sugar cane between Mossman and the Port Douglas Wharf.
The real deal here is that you’ll be looking out over the Daintree Ranges and a calm lagoon just in front while you’re having your breakfast. Go for the Cinnamon French Toast, we promise it’ll be worth breaking your diet.
In your room (duh)
Staying at Oaks Hotels? If you’re chasing a good coffee in the morning, the good news is you don’t even need to step outside for your caffeine fix.
For those craving a leisurely breakfast experience, head over to The Lilypad and try a tropically inspired breakfast buffet at Oaks Port Douglas Resort.
Feeling even more laid-back? Take your brekky back up to your room and relish the comfort of your bed. The choice is yours to make your morning (and your coffee) just the way you like it.
Lunch spots worth checking out in Port Douglas
Watergate Restaurant & Lounge Bar
It may be called Watergate, but the only scandal here is how good the food is.
Even though the restaurant is set in the middle of Port Douglas, when you walk inside, it feels like you’re stepping into a hidden corner of the rainforest. You’re surrounded by lush tropical foliage and the majestic canopy of a huge tree, minus the mosquitoes.
You can find modern Aussie dishes. Rumour has it that the yellowfin tuna, kangaroo loin, and the duck are all nothing short of extraordinary. There’s also a good variety of gluten-free dishes, just as delicious as the others.
After lunch, head over to the cocktail lounge for a delightful tipple to cap off your midday meal. Just remember to book ahead, because it tends to fill up quickly.
Salsa Bar and Grill
After the best places to eat seafood in Port Douglas? Salsa Bar & Grill on Macrossan Street has a really tasty menu with fresh seafood and modern Aussie dishes. You’ll usually find a mix of fish, prawns and lighter options. Cocktails are also a big part of the experience here, especially in the open-air dining area.
The restaurant is known for its relaxed vibe, ideal for a memorable afternoon with the family or friends.
Where to go for dinner in Port Douglas
Nautilus, Port Douglas
You could stroll past Nautilus a hundred times and never realise it’s there. But lucky for you, you’ve stumbled upon this article. So, when you spot a gravel path about 30 metres from Macrossan Street, you’ll know to follow it and suddenly Nautilus will emerge from the rainforest.
This open-air restaurant has no walls or ceiling, save for the canopy of palm trees above. On offer is an ever-changing five-course degustation menu thoughtfully crafted to reflect the tropical surroundings, think torched Shark Bay scallops, flame-grilled beef tataki and spiced whole baby barramundi. And with pescatarian, vegetarian and seafood-free options available, there’s something to please every palate.
With over 65 years behind it and more than a few Chef’s Hats to its name (if it had walls), Nautilus is one of the best places to eat in Port Douglas, and one you’ll wish to come back to.
Oak & Vine in Port Douglas
Wondering where to eat in Port Douglas but leaning towards something more relaxed? You’ll find Oak & Vine inside the tropical oasis that is Oaks Port Douglas Resort. Between the lush tropical lilies, the cascading waterfall and the traditional brick oven pumping out sourdough cob loaves and charred beef pizzas, it’s casually charming and dangerously delicious.
But whether you’re staying at Oaks or not, drop in and let Oak & Vine take care of everything but the conversation.
Where can you get a drink in Port Douglas
Barbados Port Douglas
Feeling a little thirsty? Barbados is one of those Port Douglas restaurants with a view of the marina and the Coral Sea. It’s a pretty ace spot for a cocktail. And if you want to eat, they have seafood and lighter dishes, which suit the location without feeling too heavy.
Cosmos Lounge
After something a bit more playful? Cosmos at Grant Street got colourful mixes, creative garnishes and their signature cocktail spheres, which tend to get people talking.
Add in electronic dart boards and a lively atmosphere, and it works well for a more social night out. While you’re there, try its famous tapas-style bite.
That should give you a solid idea of the best places to eat in Port Douglas, from seafood to restaurants with a view and a few good spots for a drink with the mates.
