Fast-becoming one of the most exciting foodie destinations in Australia, Byron Bay has exploded with top-tier chefs coupled the wealth of local produce being in such close proximity to the ocean. The main streets where the eateries are in abundance include Jonson Street, Lawson Street, Bay Lane and Fletcher Street – Here’s our shortlist to guarantee a memorable experience.
Set on the waterfront overlooking Clarkes
Beach, Beach Byron Bay offers something for everyone, with healthy, more casual
options via the Kiosk during the day, while the Restaurant offers a very special dining experience for waterside long lunches and dinner.
Located high on the dunes overlooking Byron Bay’s Julian Rocks, the views are unparalleled from the whitewashed beach deck restaurant, perfect for afternoon cocktails and sunset dinners. The menu celebrates the best seasonal and regional produce curated by Head Chef Alanna Sapwell. Dishes are a hyper seasonal and seafood focused – a favourite food pairing is the duck breast with peach and the taste of the seafood which is wood-fired.
The Beach Kiosk located in front of the restaurant, is the local’s spot for coffee and a casual bite to eat, from breakfast foods to fresh sandwiches to enjoy at the picnic tables or beach.
2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay 2481
Chic, coastal interiors, complement the prime location of Loft, which is elevated above the central Jonson Street with sun-soaked views over the famous Main Beach. Luxuriously styled with natural wood, rattan and pristine clean lines, with the beachside as the backdrop, this is the place to sit back and enjoy casual dining and drinks on the relaxed terrace.
Dining in Loft is a sharing affair. Select an array of smalls, a main dish or choose to a sharing plate to feast on with friends. The Chefs oyster plates are a highlight at Loft, followed by the cheese and charcuterie boards are perfect for grazing throughout the afternoon with an impressive selection of cocktails, cold beers on tap and a careful curated wines.
9/4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay 2481
The must visit spot for a signature breakfast while watching the surf. Surrounded by lush rainforest above one of Byron Bay’s best surf beaches, The Pass Cafe combines the best views with food that is equally impressive. Head there early for their signature breakfast burger or buttermilk pancakes or stop for a leisurely lunch on the way to visit Cape Byron Lighthouse close by.
Catering for all diets, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free, the delicious all-day menu has a vast selection of light meals and great options for kids too.
Open from 7am until 2pm every day.
1 Brooke Drive, Byron Bay, 2481
A little hidden gem connecting Aboriginal culture, art, and stories through food. Owned by a Bundjalung Aboriginal woman, Karkalla has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere mixing the beach vibes of Byron Bay with a nod to Middle Eastern décor with metal lamps and textured lattice walls.
Owner of Karkalla, Mindy Woods, the proud Bundjalung woman of the Widjabul Wia-bul clan, is the former CEO of Lotus Dining in
Sydney, and her collaboration with head chef Michael Petrou, has produced an eclectic menu reflecting numerous cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, and
Australian. The plates they create allow local ingredients to flourish, with signature dishes such as snapper and organic mussel curry, handmade Roti and Macadamia Hummus with Native Apple.
Drinks are just as refreshing with fruit and vegetable mocktails or classic cocktails along with a small Australian wine list. Tapas and cocktails take centre stage on Sunday afternoon with the famous Sunset Sessions from 3-6 pm with live music.
10/8 Fletcher St, Byron Bay