By Pamela Nandi | Jun 20, 2025

Australia is a land where breathtaking landscapes meet bold, vibrant flavours. From world-class fine dining in the cities to laid-back coastal bit, and rich local produce, this journey took me across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Perth, and Rottnest Island – each stop offering a taste of the country’s diverse culinary soul.

Join me as I explore the plates, places, and unforgettable moments that made this gourmet adventure across Australia truly one to savour.

Gourmet Experience in Melbourne: A Food Lover’s City Escape

Melbourne never ceases to impress when it comes to food, and my recent journey through this vibrant city was a celebration of flavours, textures, and pure indulgence.

I began the day with a classic Aussie breakfast at Holiday Inn Express Melbourne, where simplicity met quality. Freshly brewed coffee, fluffy eggs, crisp toast, and the warm hospitality set the tone for what would unfold into a delightful culinary adventure.

Dinner took me to the elegant Mr. Hive Kitchen & Bar at Crown Metropol, where I enjoyed a beautifully plated Mt Leura Black Angus Sirloin, perfectly grilled and served with golden chips and my personal favourite – a rich mushroom sauce.

The mashed potatoes, creatively sculpted like a Christmas tree, added a playful touch to the dish. Yes, I rang in Christmas the Aussie way in the heart of a Melbourne summer.

To complement this indulgent meal, I chose a bold glass of Motley Cru Shiraz, a full-bodied wine that tied the meal together beautifully.

On my tour to the Great Ocean Road, I enjoyed a peaceful coffee break amidst wildlife, where I spotted koalas and soaked in the serenity of Australian nature.

Lunch earlier that day was nothing short of fun and nostalgic at the American diner-style Pit Stop Cafe at Apollo Bay.

The signature Lamb Burger, juicy and packed with flavour, was paired with a thick Caramel Milkshake – pure indulgence in a glass.

I couldn’t help but laugh at myself, sipping the shake with childlike glee – a light-hearted moment in the middle of an otherwise luxurious food trail.

I wandered through the bustling Queen Victoria Market, a must-visit for anyone who appreciates fresh, local produce and global street food.

One of the standout bites here was a zesty Fish Taco – light, flavourful, and utterly satisfying – offering a perfect pause in my city exploration.

I made my way to Waterfront Southbank, a scenic spot that matched its stunning views with equally impressive flavours.

Here, I enjoyed a classic Fish & Chips – crispy, golden, and served piping hot.

The experience was elevated with a glass of Birra Moretti, an Italian brew known for its dark body and refreshing citrus undertones, offering a lovely contrast to the fried fare.

I had the wonderful opportunity to take a curated tour through the picturesque Yarra Valley – a heaven for wine lovers and spirit enthusiasts alike. From boutique wineries to award-winning distilleries, it was a journey filled with flavour, craftsmanship, and scenic indulgence.

🍷 If you’re passionate about wine or curious to explore the best of Victoria’s gourmet experiences, don’t miss my exclusive guide: Australia Wine & Gin Tour – A Gourmet Getaway in Yarra Valley, Melbourne

Foodie’s Note:

Melbourne’s food scene, with its rich diversity and culinary creativity, offers something for every palate. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food, refined dining, or international street bites, this city promises a gastronomic journey that delights from morning to night.

Sydney in Every Bite: A Culinary Sojourn Through Australia’s Iconic Harbour City

Touching down in Sydney, long before my official check-in at Sydney Hilton, I found myself immersed almost immediately in the city’s electric charm – and, more importantly, its vibrant culinary landscape.

With a heart full of wanderlust and a palate ready to explore, I ventured into an Asian eatery tucked away in a bustling corner of the city. The Pan-Fried Pork Dumplings, delicately crispy with a savoury broth surprise inside, were the perfect way to kick off my Sydney food journey.

But it was the Stir-Fried Beef Pepper Noodles – bold, aromatic, and comforting—that truly left me speechless.

The breakfast experience at the luxurious Sydney Hotel was both scenic and indulgent. It overlooked the historic Queen Victoria Building and was a perfect start before diving into the city’s hustle. The breakfast buffet is an elegant mix of classic continental selections, hot Western favourites, and local specialties at Glass Brasserie, where global flavours meet Australian freshness.

From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the aroma of freshly baked pastries and artisan breads, still warm from the oven. The farm-fresh eggs are made to order, whether you prefer them poached, scrambled, or as a fluffy omelette, they’re cooked just the way you like. Alongside them, enjoy crisp bacon, juicy sausages, grilled tomatoes, and golden hash browns.

There’s also a delicious rotating selection of Asian breakfast favourites, including comforting congee, delicate dumplings, and flavour-packed stir-fried noodles.

Add to that a generous spread of cheeses, cold cuts, vibrant seasonal fruits, and a colourful salad bar for a lighter touch. For drinks, craft your own creation at the DIY juice and smoothie station, or sip on premium coffee and fine teas to ease into the day.

My dinner at the acclaimed Glass Brasserie & Wine Bar was unforgettable. The restaurant at Sydney Hilton proudly offers an impressive collection of approximately 3,500 premium wines.

I began with the Twice-Baked Gruyère Cheese Soufflé – rich, airy, and elevated with Verjuice dressing.

The star of the meal was the Gundagai Lamb Backstrap. It is a succulent Australian cut served with buckwheat and comes with salsa verde and green harissa. Served with Buckwheat, Green Harissa, Fresh Peas, Salsa Verde (Mexican spicy green sauce).

Paired with a chilled glass of Janz Premium Rosé from Tasmania, it was the quintessential city dining experience.

Sydney’s renowned coffee culture drew me next to Seven Miles Café, a boutique coffee heaven that blends craftsmanship with elegance. Their Chocolate-infused Latte was comfort in a cup – silky, rich, and utterly indulgent.

Another culinary pinnacle of my Sydney journey was dining at SkyFeast, located atop the Sydney Tower at a soaring 82 levels above ground. With 360-degree rotating views of the dazzling skyline, this international buffet turned into an unforgettable gastronomic tour of the world.

The spread, featuring over 30 exquisite dishes – fresh seafood, Asian stir-fries, Mediterranean classics, slow-roasted meats, vibrant salads, and an indulgent dessert bar offered not just variety, but excellence in every bite.

This was more than a meal; it was a celebration of global cuisine elevated by panoramic views of Australia’s most iconic city.

Venturing beyond the city, I spent a serene afternoon in the charming Leura Village, nestled in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales.

At a quaint little café, I discovered a slice of paradise: the ultimate Key Lime Pie, with its perfect balance of tartness and cream.

Paired with a cool, refreshing Iced Latte, it was one of those quiet, soulful moments that define slow travel and simple joys.

Before leaving Sydney, I made a quick yet satisfying stop at The Lord Lamington, a perfect pre-journey pitstop. My plate featured a generous Chicken Schnitzel topped with Parmesano, served alongside crispy fries and a refreshing mix of leafy greens. Hearty, flavourful, and just what I needed before boarding my next adventure north.

Foodie’s Note:

From sky-high buffets to hidden mountain cafés, gourmet fine dining to soulful street eats, Sydney offered me a spectrum of culinary experiences that were as dynamic and layered as the city itself.

A Taste of Brisbane: Where Global Flavours Meet Local Charm

As my journey continued from the iconic harbour city of Sydney to the vibrant and sunny streets of Brisbane, I found myself indulging in yet another unforgettable series of gastronomic experiences – each one thoughtfully prepared, locally inspired, and served with unmistakable Aussie charm.

My first stop was Jimmy’s On The Mall in the heart of the city, next to my hotel – Hyatt Regency Brisbane.

Here, I dove into the rich, bold flavours of Asia. The crispy Fried Pork Wontons were golden and addictive.

The Yangzhou Fried Rice – a comforting, wok-tossed classic, generously loaded with vegetables, pork, sausage, seafood, and scrambled eggs.

To complement the feast, a chilled Orange Cooler provided a citrusy burst of refreshment in the Brisbane warmth.

The next morning brought another delicious encounter with a traditional Australian breakfast, at Lennon’s Restaurant & Bar, Hyatt Regency Brisbane, with a breezy view of Queen Street Mall. The breakfast platter was a robust spread of smokey bacon, eggs, grilled mushrooms, hash browns, baked beans, and both beef and pork sausages—a filling start to a day of exploring Brisbane’s lively downtown.

Dinner at Lennon’s, the hotel’s signature restaurant, was the epitome of contemporary Australian fine dining. I began with a Venetian classic – the Peach Bellini crafted with Italian Prosecco and fresh white Veronese peach purée. Light, fruity, and slightly sour, it was the perfect prelude to the meal.

For the main course, I chose the Atlantic Tasmanian Grilled Salmon, my first taste of this delicacy. Firm in texture and rich in natural oils, the salmon was seared to perfection and served with a delicate mushroom sauce and roasted baby potatoes. Each bite delivered a balance of bold and earthy flavours that felt both elegant and satisfying.

No culinary journey is truly complete without dessert, and mine ended with a sweet trip to Spain – Basque Cheesecake, a decadent creation hailing from San Sebastián. With its caramelized crust and creamy center, served with a vivid blood red berry compote, this dessert offered the perfect finale: indulgent, balanced, and deeply memorable.

Foodie’s Note:

From fine dining, Asian street flavours to European-inspired desserts Brisbane serves up a vibrant fusion of flavours that truly reflect its laid-back charm and global spirit. Brisbane proves that its culinary scene is as bold, diverse, and exciting as its culture.

Gold Coast: Sweet Heights

Craving a treat with a view? I indulged in a delightful artisanal ice cream experience at SkyScoops, perched atop the iconic Q1 building at SkyPoint with 360° panoramic views of the Gold Coast skyline and the sparkling Pacific.

This pop-up sundae bar is a sweet lover’s paradise, offering Peters ice cream scoops in fun, creative flavours paired with an irresistible lineup of toppings: sprinkles, nuts, fresh fruits, and rich syrups. It’s the ultimate dessert moment elevated, both literally and flavourfully.

Perth Pleasures: A Coastal Culinary Escape in Western Australia

After a long and delayed flight, I finally arrived in Perth and checked in past midnight at DoubleTree by Hilton Northbridge.

Despite the hour and the fatigue, the warm hospitality and a delicious breakfast the next morning felt like the perfect welcome. Comforting, wholesome, and satisfying, just what I needed to start my West Australian adventure on the right note.

A late morning drive to Yanchep National Park led me to a charming stop at Chocolate Drops Tearoom, a hidden gem nestled in lush greenery.

Surrounded by nature’s calm, I indulged in Artisanal Chocolates and Sweets.

Wonderful moments captured in the midst of lush greenery that includes morning coffee. It was one of those simple yet beautiful moments – sipping, savouring, and soaking in the serenity.

Lunchtime brought a seafood lover’s dream come true at the iconic Lobster Shack Cervantes, located along the scenic Indian Ocean Drive, one of Australia’s most breathtaking coastal routes.

First up: Prawn Crab Wontons – crisp on the outside, rich and flavourful on the inside. An irresistible start!

Here comes the star of the meal: a succulent Half Lobster, served with golden chips, creamy garlic dip, and a crisp house salad.

The experience was elevated with an ice-cold great Northern Fruity Beer, perfectly paired with ocean views and salt-kissed air.

Later in the early evening, I found myself at The Royal on the Waterfront, a stylish dining destination that combines sweeping waterfront views of the Swan river with modern Australian fare.

A cool Watermelon Mojito marked the perfect beginning to my early evening.

And then setting the tone for a relaxed, elegant meal – the small plates included Baked Potato Skins stuffed with bacon bits and creamy potato mash.

Followed by a perfectly cooked Roasted Pork Belly—crispy on the outside, tender and flavourful within.

Conclusion:

From forested tearooms to sun-drenched seafood shacks and waterfront restaurants, Perth offered a deliciously diverse culinary journey infused with natural beauty, coastal charm, and thoughtful dining experiences. Each plate showcased a story of the land and sea-fresh, local, and unforgettable.

Rottnest Island Reverie: Beachside Bites with a Western Australian Soul

On the sun-drenched shores of Rottnest Island, just a ferry ride away from Perth, I experienced a slice of coastal paradise—where relaxed island vibes meet gourmet delights crafted from the best of Western Australia’s local produce.

Dining beachside with panoramic views of the gorgeous Apollo Bay, I was immersed in both beauty and flavour. The menu here pays homage to WA’s farmers and fishers, and every dish is a celebration of freshness and simplicity done right.

First up were the Seafood Rolls—a divine combination of succulent lobster and shrimp, tossed in herb butter sauce and served warm on a perfectly toasted roll. Each bite offered a creamy richness from the dressing, a vegetal crunch from fresh celery, and a sweet burst from the premium shellfish. A luxurious and satisfying coastal indulgence.

Next came the Fish Tacos, a standout island classic. Fluffy white fish fillets, crispy and golden, nestled into soft tortillas and topped with a zesty slaw of shredded cabbage, red onions, and sour cream. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dash of lime juice added the perfect hit of brightness and balance.

To complement the feast, I sipped on Northern Fruity Beer, a crisp Australian brew, and cooled off with a refreshing Raspberry Lemonade – the kind of drinks that match perfectly with a salty breeze and sunset views.

Foodie’s Note:

With delicious food, stunning views, and the laid-back rhythm of island life, Rottnest Island offered more than just a meal. It offered a moment of seaside serenity and pure indulgence.

Final Conclusion:

Australia has been a revelation—where every city brought its own rhythm, and every plate told a story. From rooftop dining in Sydney to seafood feasts along the Indian Ocean Drive and beachside bites on Rottnest Island, this journey was a beautiful blend of flavour, culture, and connection. More than just food, it was about the moments shared, the places discovered, and the joy of indulging in the richness of local produce.

I leave with a heart full of memories and a palate craving more. Until next time, Australia – thank you for feeding both my appetite and my soul.

Loved this journey?
If Australia’s flavours inspired you as much as they did me, drop a comment with your favourite Aussie dish or destination!

✨ Stay tuned for more global gourmet adventures, subscribe to the blog, follow me on [Instagram @pamelanandi], and let’s keep exploring one bite at a time.