Local Guide | Cairns Restaurants

Local Guide | Cairns Restaurants

Cairns is spoilt for food options, but if your looking for something a bit special, here are our top five brunch, and top five dinner recommendations. Each of these restaurants brings something special, whether you're after a casual brunch or a stylish dinner.

Brunch Restaurants:

1. Guyala Cafe

Google Rating: ★★★★★

Located in North Cairns, Guyala Cafe blends indigenous ingredients with international culinary influences. Known for its thoughtful and inventive dishes, it caters to plant-based and gluten-free diets. Whether you're after breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the airy atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal.

What We Love:

  • Thoughtful, innovative dishes.

  • Plant-based and gluten-free options.

  • Bright, welcoming ambiance.dining.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Limited menu variety at times.

For a unique and elevated brunch or meal, Guyala Cafe is highly recommended.
Guyala Cafe

2. The Chambers Cafe, Restaurant & Bar

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

A cozy spot perfect for brunch, offering excellent coffee and delicious, fresh meals. With a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service, it’s ideal for a laid-back morning.

What We Love:

  • Delicious coffee, friendly vibe, variety in brunch options.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Can get busy during peak hours.

The Chambers Cafe

3. Nu Nu Restaurant

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

A beachfront café serving up fresh, tropical brunch options with a modern touch. The perfect place for those who want a taste of the local flair.

What We Love:

  • Stunning seaside location, fresh ingredients, vibrant atmosphere.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Prices may be a bit high for some.

Nu Nu Restaurant

4. Mama Coco

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

A tropical-themed café offering vibrant, fresh dishes ideal for a midday pick-me-up. The decor is just as fresh as the meals, making it a great spot for Instagram-worthy moments.

What We Love:

  • Unique food, great ambiance.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Can get crowded on weekends.

Mama Coco

5. Goose Specialty Coffee

Google Rating: ★★★★★

Known for its exceptional coffee and a creative brunch menu, Goose is the go-to for anyone seeking an elevated breakfast experience.

What We Love:

  • Amazing coffee, unique menu items, quiet atmosphere.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Parking can be tricky at school drop off time (8-9am).

Goose Specialty Coffee

Dinner Restaurants:

1. Guerrilla

Google Rating: ★★★★★

Guerrilla offers a unique dining experience with global flavors and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters looking for something different.

What We Love:

  • Bold flavors, eclectic atmosphere, great share plates.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Portions might feel small for some.

Guerrilla

2. Little Sister Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

For a chic evening out, Little Sister serves flavorful global-inspired dishes alongside creative cocktails in an intimate setting.
What We Love: Creative cocktails, intimate ambiance, great service..

What We Love:

  • Great food, excellent wine selections, and great service.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Can feel a bit exposed if you are seated outside close to the sidewalk.

Little Sister Restaurant

3. Piccolo Cucina

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

A charming spot for those craving a modern twist on Italian classics. Piccolo Cucina serves flavorful dishes that’ll make you feel like you’re in Italy.

What We Love:

  • Delicious Italian fare with a local twist.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Service can be a bit slow during busy hours.

Piccolo Cucina

4. Salt House

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

A perfect dinner spot by the water, Salt House serves seafood and modern Australian dishes in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.

What We Love:

  • Waterfront dining, seafood selection, elegant ambiance.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Could use more vegetarian options.

Salt House

5. Code Cairns

Google Rating: ★★★★☆

Code offers innovative share plates with global influences in a stylish, contemporary atmosphere. It’s ideal for those seeking a fusion of flavors.

What We Love:

  • Unique, flavorful share plates, chic setting.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Service can be inconsistent.

Code Cairns