• Donovans (Melbourne, VIC; tel. 03/9534 8221): Sitting with a glass in hand on the veranda at Donovans watching the sun go down over St. Kilda beach is a perfect way to end the day. A former 1920s bathing pavilion has been transformed into a welcoming beach-house-style restaurant, complete with views across the sand and a seafood-rich menu.
  • e’cco bistro (Brisbane, QLD; tel. 07/3831 8344): Simple food elegantly done—accompanied by an extensive wine list—has won this small but stylish bistro a stack of awards, and you’ll soon see why. Booking ahead is essential.
  • Flower Drum (Melbourne, VIC; tel. 03/9662 3655): Praise pours in for this upscale eatery serving exquisite Cantonese food. The service is impeccable.
  • Icebergs Dining Room and Bar(Sydney, NSW; tel. 02/9365 9000): Come here for exquisite food and one of the best ocean views in the Southern Hemisphere. Not surprisingly, seafood features highly on the menu. Probably the best place to have lunch in Sydney.
  • MoVida (Melbourne, VIC; tel. 03/9663 3038): This little corner of Spain is relaxed and fun, with seriously good food and good wine. Melbournians flock here for the tapas and raciones. If it’s full, try one of the two sister restaurants, MoVida Next Door and MoVida Aqui.
  • Quay (Sydney, NSW; tel. 02/9251 5600): Sydney’s best seafood restaurant offers perhaps the loveliest view in town. Gaze through the large windows toward the Opera House, the city skyline, the North Shore suburbs, and the Harbour Bridge.
  • Red Ochre Grill (Alice Springs, NT; tel. 08/8952 9614): “Gourmet bush tucker”might sound like a contradiction, but this restaurant (part of an upscale chain) pulls it off. The kitchen combines native ingredients and international techniques to exceptionally good effect.
  • Salsa Bar & Grill(Port Douglas, QLD; tel. 07/4099 4922): The animated atmosphere and attractive surroundings set the scene for an excellent dining experience. Appetizers and main courses run the gamut from simple fare to sophisticated tropical creations; desserts are fantastic. Ensure you book as far ahead as possible.
  • Tetsuya’s (Sydney, NSW; tel. 02/9267 2900): Chef Tetsuya Wakuda is arguably Sydney’s most famous chef, and his nouveau Japanese creations are imaginative enough to guarantee that this hip eatery—a constant number one in Australia—ranks among the top restaurants in the world. 

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.