Australian Food & Wine

Food and wine are an integral part of the Australia lifestyle. With such fabulous weather most meals are eaten al fresco, and thanks to the varied microclimates and landscapes, you will find everything from mangoes, avocados and macadamia nuts grown in the tropical heat of the north to Asian herbs, mussels, tuna and Chardonnay grapes flourishing in the cooler climes of the south.

Australian food is an interesting mix of contrasts, with influences from Japanese, Thai, Greek, Lebanese, Vietnamese, Chinese and French cuisine. Some of the world’s finest wines come from the commonwealth, and while the food used to be described as akin to British fare ”only worse!”  these days are now long gone. While the stereotypical view of Australian cuisine tends to extend to the “throw another shrimp on the Barbie” variety, this is far from the truth although don’t be fooled, the Australians do love a good barbecue!

Today, Australian food is a smorgasboard of Asian-fusion, Nouveau and bush tucker. The cities are packed with restaurants serving cuisine from every corner of the world, and modern Australian food is served to a high standard. On the menu you can find everything from enormous steaks - the Australians are one of the world’s largest meat producers - to hot chilli mud crab, kangaroo, crocodile sausage and a massive variety of seafood. Choose from pub balconies where you can eat freshly caught fish and chips and soak up some amazing views, to barbecues in the park or a romantic meal for two next to Uluru, under the stars.

Want some inspirational food and wine experiences?

Fast food facts

• Early and 20th Century European immigrants from Germany, Italy and France helped pioneer and grow the Australian wine industry.
• There are more than 15,000 cafes and restaurants in Australia, providing 1.1 million seats for dining. Just over a third of these establishments are licensed.
• Australia produces some of the world’s premium beef, lamb, tuna and gourmet produce including cheese, truffles, saffron, scallops and coffee.
• Australia has 12.3 million hectares of certified organic land.