It’s like a tasty scavenger hunt to track down the most iconic Australian food during your trip. Every food you must try in Australia has a story to tell, from the humble supermarket staples locals have enjoyed for decades to the extravagant dining experiences that showcase Australia’s culinary creativity. You’ll discover that Australia’s cuisine is as adventurous and diverse as its landscapes, whether you are tucking into a childhood favourite or enjoying a dish created by top chefs. It’s a trip for your taste buds as well as your travel journal.
Australia’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscape. From sun-bleached beachside restaurants serving fresh seafood straight from the sea to multicultural, vibrant cities bursting with international flavours, Australia has a wide range of food options. Each state and territory has its unique twist. Think tropical treats in Queensland or wine-paired delicacies from South Australia. Or hearty comfort foods in Victoria and Tasmania. You’ll never be bored with the food you eat in Australia, whether you’re strolling through coastal markets, enjoying a picnic in the Outback or having brunch in a hip inner-city café.
Grab your appetite and sense of adventure because we are about to take a food lover on a tour of Australia. You can travel the country by eating your way through our list of 15 famous dishes.
The Most Delicious Foods to Try in Australia
1. Kangaroo Meat
Kangaroo is an Australian staple, and it’s a protein-rich, lean meat that’s been around for thousands of years. Kangaroo is a meat that has a taste somewhere between venison and beef. It’s best served medium-rare to maintain its tenderness. It comes in many forms, including juicy steaks and burgers as well as spiced sausages and gourmet pies. Slow-cooked kangaroo soup or toppings for pizza are good options for those who don’t want to give it a try. Kangaroo is a sustainable meat option that tastes great. It’s also environmentally friendly, since the animals are native, and they require less land and water than conventional livestock.
2. Lamingtons
The lamington represents Australian baking. The lamington is a simple, yet satisfying treat. It is made from a light, airy sponge covered in chocolate icing, and then rolled in desiccated Coconut. You’ll love the combination of chewy coconut and moist cake when you bite into it. The classic version of the cake is plain. However, some variations include strawberry jam or cream. The Australians love Lamingtons. They can be bought in cafes and bakeries or even made at home for fundraisers.
3. Barramundi
Barramundi, which is named after the Aboriginal word for “large-scaled fish,” is as delicious as it is versatile. This mild, buttery, Australian staple is often grilled with lemon or baked with herbs. It can also be pan-fried and served with crispy skin. Barramundi can be found in saltwater or freshwater throughout Australia. It is known for its tender flesh that absorbs flavours without being overpowering. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Australia’s coast, whether it’s with creamy mash or greens and tropical mango salsa.
4. Australian Barbecue
The stereotypical Australian expression is “put another prawn on the barbecue,” but locals will tell you that it’s shrimp. The barbecue, or “barbie”, is more than a cooking method; it’s also a cultural tradition. Aussies love to grill anything, whether it’s in the backyard, the park or on the beach. They will cook burgers, seafood and sausages. Barbecues don’t just involve meat. They are usually accompanied by charred vegetables, salads and simple slices of bread to soak up sauces. Top your barbecue with ketchup, smoky BBQ or salad dressing and enjoy in the sun with friends.
5. Anzac Biscuits
Anzac biscuits have a rich history and are sweet. These crisp, yet chewy biscuits are made from rolled oatmeal, golden syrup and coconut. They were sent to Australians and New Zealanders serving overseas by their wives and families, because the ingredients stayed fresh during long travels. They are baked all year round, but they hold a special place on Anzac Day, a day of national remembrance. They are a delicious snack that is often paired with hot tea.
6. Pavlova
The pavlova, Australia’s national dessert, is light, airy and indulgent. This show-stopper is a meringue shell that has a marshmallow centre. It’s generously topped off with whipped cream, strawberries, bananas, kiwis, passionfruit and other seasonal fruits. Each bite is a perfect blend of creamy softness and fruity sweetness.
There’s also the long-running rivalry between Australia and New Zealand about who invented it. Both countries claim it, but we in Australia are certain that it is ours. Pavlova doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions. It’s also a popular summer dessert at family reunions, Christmas barbecues and birthdays.
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8. Avo Smash
Avocado smash is one of Australia’s most iconic breakfast dishes. This dish is perfect for brunch lovers. It usually consists of creamy avocado spread on toasted sourdough bread, sprinkled liberally with feta and topped with poached egg. Some variations include cherry tomatoes, roasted squash, or balsamic glaze. Melbourne has made avo-smash a part of their cafe culture. Brunch is not just a meal, but a ritual.
9. Bacon & Egg Roll
The classic British breakfast of bacon and eggs has been adapted into a portable roll by Australians. The perfect brekkie on the go is made with soft bread, smoky smoked bacon, and an egg scrambled or fried, along with your choice of sauce: tomato, BBQ, or Aioli. Creative variations abound, from Mediterranean-inspired rolls with chilli jam and rocket to Vietnamese-style versions served in a banh mi with pickled vegetables. This is the perfect quick snack for busy mornings or after a surf session.
10. Prawns
In Australia, the prawns are called. They’re also a favourite seafood from coast to coast. Australian prawns, whether you are dining at a waterfront restaurant or grilling them, are known for their delicate, sweet flavour and firm texture. Freshly caught varieties such as king prawns or tiger shrimp are usually grilled in garlic butter and served with pasta. You’ll be able to find prawns as flavorful as they are fresh thanks to Australia’s pristine water, especially in the summer holidays.
11. Chicken Parmigiana
The chicken parmigiana, also known as “parma,” or “parmi,” according to the state in which you live, may have Italian origins but has become an Australian pub classic. Imagine a golden chicken schnitzel with a thick tomato sauce and a generous layer of melted, bubbling cheese. It’s comfort food, served with crispy hot chips and an optional side salad. Let’s face it: the salad is rarely eaten.
It’s more than a simple meal. The Parmesan has become a pub staple. Locals argue about where the best parma is, and each pub has its unique twist. From extra toppings to secret ingredients, every place has its version. A proper parma is a must on any Australian food trip, whether you choose to enjoy it in a busy city bar or a humble country pub.
12. Witchetty Grubs
Listen up before you sneer. Witchetty grubs do not only come from the Outback. They are a staple in traditional Aboriginal bush food, full of protein, healthy fats and nutrients. The creamy-white larvae are delicious raw, with a slight nutty flavour. They can also be lightly grilled to get a crisp outside and a soft, buttery interior. These larvae have sustained Indigenous Australians for thousands of years. They are as unique as they are practical.
Witchetty grubs are a must-try for adventurous eaters. It’s a memorable experience, whether you eat it in the wild on a cultural trip or try a cooked version during a bush-tucker tasting. At the very least, it makes for a great travel story–the kind you’ll tell with dramatic hand gestures and “you-had-to-be-there” enthusiasm to friends back home.
13. Mud Crab
The north and east coasts are abundant with this prized delicacy. It has been a staple of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures for thousands of years. The meaty, large crabs have a sweet, succulent flesh which is delicious when steamed, stir-fried or cooked with aromatic curry.
Kangaroo Meat
Visitors may be surprised to learn that Australians consume their national animal. Kangaroo is lean and flavorful. It’s also one of the best sustainable proteins available. It has a slightly gamey flavour that’s somewhere between beef and venison. Best served medium-rare to keep the meat tender and juicy. Kangaroo boasts a high nutritional value, with a lot of protein, little fat, iron and omega-3s.
On pub menus, you’ll see kangaroo skewers or kangaroo stew, as well as spiced sausages. Slow-cooked kangaroo skewers or marinated skewers can be a good way for first-timers to get accustomed to the taste. This is not just a dish, but a taste of Australia’s wild side.
14. Macadamia Nut Brittle
The macadamia is one of Australia’s most precious natural treasures. It’s often overlooked. These native Australian nuts are creamy, buttery and slightly sweet. They shine the brightest when combined with golden caramel to make macadamia-nut brittle.
15. Chicken Parmigiana
This Aussie pub favourite is affectionately known as “chicken parmi” or “chicken schnitzel”. It starts with a juicy schnitzel of chicken, topped with a rich tomato sauce. Sometimes a slice of bacon can be added for more flavour. It has Italian-American roots and was first mentioned in the US back in 1944. However, Australians have made this dish their own. They serve it in everything from busy city pubs to roadhouses in outback Australia. It is usually served with golden fries and a side salad to make it the ultimate comfort meal.
This dish starts with chicken breasts coated in breadcrumbs and egg, which are then baked or fried until golden. The sauce is garlicky and herbed, and the cheese is on top. It’s then baked to perfection. It’s available in cafes, restaurants and supermarkets.
