Five surprising eats in the NT

By Darren Potter

There is nothing more satisfying on holidays than to claim some insta-fame amongst your friends, with that ‘wish you were here’ foodie find. If you’re heading to the NT, add these to your secret list and get ready for some friendly jealousy.

Mindil Beach Markets
Sunsets at these iconic markets are legendary, and being able to match that perfect view with your choice of over 1,200 menu items, will make this a holiday highlight. But did you know that you can create your own VIP experience, by reserving a table in the private event space?
Situated at a prime location on the beach dunes, you have a front row seat to a spectacular sunset, just out of the hustle and bustle of the markets. Grab some food and bring it back to your own special little enclosure and settle in for some beach dining.

An ice-filled esky will be ready when you get there, perfect for a few chilled drinks as the sun goes down and the music of the markets breaks into the night.
The Black Russian Caravan Bar
One of the things you wouldn’t expect in the Top End town of Katherine, would be a retro-style caravan serving up some serious coffee to locals and visitors. This super cute mobile café can be found under the shady trees near the Katherine Information Centre (check their Facebook page for updates).
There is a lovely laid-back vibe with low wooden tables, re-purposed crates, colourful rugs and cushions creating a bohemian style setting.

This is quirky at its best and it’s all too easy to while-away a lazy morning with coffee, homemade cakes and some tasty toasted sandwiches. My tip: try the pulled lamb toastie followed by a brioche doughnut.
The Purple Mango Brewery
Located in crocodile country just up the road from the Adelaide River cruises, you will stumble upon this unique craft brewery in the bush. In a shiny tin shed you will find a range of brews on tap which have been created to reflect the NT climate.
Yes, there is a mango infused craft beer logically named Mango Mango, which sits nicely alongside the Billabong Blonde which has a touch of malt character.

The tasting paddle is a great way to try the selection, including the Monsoon Belgian Pale Ale or for something refreshingly different, Fat Boy’s Ginger Beer.

Match your brews with some fantastic wood-fired pizza at the café, where you can sit back on the deck surrounded by bush. The mango chicken and chilli prawn pizzas fit perfectly with the warm weather and cool beer.
Sweet Brew & Co
Hipster culture has hit the Darwin café scene, and this out of the way find, located in a revived mechanics workshop, promises you ‘fine food and good times’. The revved up industrial design, creates a relaxed uber-cool environment, which opens up to more surprises out the back with its own flower bar.
The on-site bakery, smashes out an amazing range of pastries & breads, which are tantalisingly displayed at the front counter. Being able to peek through the window to watch the bakers in action adds to the charm of this place.

A must try are the brekkie boxes, which are an indulgent adult sampler packed with goodies like house muesli bar, kale shooter, bircher pot, pulled pork slider, and rye with spiced avocado.

Or for those with a sweet tooth the thick hotcake with agave, puffed quinoa, vanilla bean mascarpone and berries will not disappoint.
Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise
It doesn’t get much more magical than drifting on the tranquil waters of the Katherine Gorge as the sun slowly sets, whilst you sip on a glass of sparkling wine fizzing over a native hibiscus flower. The Gorge is simply spectacular, and a candle-lit dining experience, creates the perfect foodie moment.
With the food being freshly cooked on the boat, the amazing smells from the grill provides a hit to the senses, against a backdrop of towering cliffs.

The entrée sets the tone with a bush tasting platter of melaleuca smoked chicken, salt bush kangaroo and crocodile bisque, in a local produce showcase. The local highlights keep coming through the main course, with wild caught NT Barramundi being one of the popular choices.

This is one local must-do eat!