When it comes to getaways sure to please the fussiest of foodies, it’s hard to beat Noosa. This little slice of Sunshine Coast heaven boasts beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, gorgeous national parks, great shopping and fab accommodation options. But more importantly for this food lover, it’s also the stuff of wining and dining holiday dreams.
Here are my top picks from a week staying in Noosa Heads.
Tick off a crowd favourite at… Bistro C
Not long after hopping off the plane at Sunshine Coast Airport, we’re settled into a corner table with a beach view at Bistro C for lunch. When asking around for Noosa food tips, this was the one spot everyone mentioned without fail. It’s hard to top the combination of beach and people watching views with the something-for-everyone menu. Breakfasts are popular too but they don’t take bookings at that time of day so get in early to nab a spot.
Live your burger dreams at… Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co.
The phrase ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’ has never been truer. Just look at the juicy burger action! Betty’s is classic burger perfection and despite the crowds, the Hastings Street hot spot operates like a well-oiled machine. Be sure to order one of their famous ‘Concrete’ thick-shakes too, made with a unique custard-based ice-cream.
Dine riverside at… Ricky’s
Noosa has a reputation for being a little bit fancy and a splash out meal at Ricky’s is a very good way to spend an afternoon or evening. A quick Uber ride away from Noosa Heads, swap the beach for a waterfront spot on the Noosa River at this chic local produce focused restaurant and bar. We couldn’t fault a single mouthful but my hot tip is if the Mooloolaba yellow fin tuna tartare, fennel cracker, lime, avocado starter is on the menu when you visit, I highly recommend you get it. This is a popular one so be sure to book.
Enjoy all of the gelato at… Massimo’s Gelateria
No holiday is complete without ridiculous amounts of gelato and Massimo’s creamy creations will have you coming back time and time again to try all the flavours. They don’t do tastings and it’s cash-only so come prepared and ready to commit to your pick.
Indulge beachside at… Sail’s
Another icon of the Noosa fine dining scene, Sails has an understated elegance complimented by its exceptional position overlooking the beach at the far end of Hastings Street. The modern Australian menu focuses on fresh, seasonal produce and fittingly given its location, features plenty of seafood. If torn between the two bread options – first world holiday problems I know – take the advice of our amazing waiter Tim and go for the charred ciabatta with house smoked trout butter, just one of many great recommendations we received on that night.
Get your Italian fix at… Locale
We started here with the intent of just enjoying a cocktail but liked the vibe and staff so much, we decided to stay for dinner. And boy am I glad we did! Our burrata, fig and prosciutto starter was a great way to get our tastebuds going but the house made pasta was so good, I would have happily eaten here every single day of our trip just for this.
Hang with the locals at… the Noosa Farmer’s markets
With so many Noosa restaurants focusing on fresh, local produce you’d be crazy not to get some of that action for yourself at the weekly Farmer’s Markets, held in nearby Noosaville. If you have BBQ facilities at your digs, I highly recommend picking up marinated lamb and cooking up a feast. But even if you don’t have self-catering facilities, it’s worth a visit for all the fresh fruits and snacks.
Pick up supplies at… Providore on Hastings
Another great spot for picking up gourmet goodies is Providore on Hastings, located within the Netanya Noosa apartments complex. Stock up on cheeses, fancy biscuits, dips, olives and all the good stuff.
Have a very happy hour of oysters at… Café Le Monde
$1 oyster happy hour between 5pm and 6pm every Thursday. Need I say more.
Get your healthy treat fix at… Coconut Head
I love raw desserts so much I even had one for my wedding cake so it’s no surprise I made a beeline for the super-food bar just adjacent to Café Le Monde. It’s a hard decision between the bliss balls (the peanut butter and the choc-raspberry were both winners) and the raw Ferrero cake. Hubby was also a big fan of the CocoWhip creations, complete with raw brownie pieces. Yum.
People watch at… Aroma’s
With a distinct European style feel, grab yourself one of the street facing tables, order a coffee and people watch on bustling Hastings Street to your heart’s content.
Dine poolside at… Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort
Strictly speaking this one is for hotel guests, but that’s a very good reason to choose this as your accommodation option in Noosa. Dine poolside at the Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort – the seafood is my pick – then be sure to cool down with a cocktail at the swim up bar. Non-hotel guests can still enjoy much of the delicious menu at the onsite Noosa Beach House Bar.
Treat yo’ self at… Wasabi
Be warned, this one comes with a serious price tag, but if you’re after a unique Japanese degustation menu, this one is worth a visit. Located right next door to Ricky’s and sharing the same stunning Noosa River views, the dishes are delicious but really pop when complimented with the smart wine matches, explained in just the right level of detail by the expert sommelier.
Need more food tips? Check out our favourite Sydney food and wine spots.
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