Cairns, with its tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, is a seafood lover’s dream. During my recent trip to this vibrant city, I found myself indulging in some of the freshest, most delicious seafood dishes I’ve ever had. From casual fish and chips joints to elegant dining experiences, Cairns offers a variety of options to satisfy any seafood craving. Let me take you through some of the highlights of my seafood journey, sharing not only the best spots but also some insider tips on how to enjoy the freshest catches of the day.
1. Fresh Seafood: Where to Begin?
Upon landing in Cairns, the warm, salty breeze already had my taste buds tingling. I had heard so much about the seafood in this region, especially given its location next to the world’s largest coral reef system, which is home to some of the freshest fish and shellfish in the world. What I didn’t know, however, was just how diverse and accessible the seafood dining scene would be.
Walking around the bustling Esplanade, I could see numerous seafood restaurants, each with their own approach to showcasing the ocean’s bounty. But with so many options, where should one even begin? I quickly learned that a mix of casual beachside eateries and fine dining restaurants would be the perfect way to sample the best of what Cairns has to offer.
2. Salt House: A Stylish Spot for Seafood with a View
One of my first stops was Salt House, an iconic restaurant located on the waterfront with an unbeatable view of the marina. The moment I walked in, I could feel the laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can easily enjoy a glass of wine while watching the boats drift by, and, of course, dive into some incredible seafood dishes.
Their seafood platter was an obvious choice, featuring a mouth-watering assortment of prawns, oysters, and more. The prawns were succulent, with a delicate sweetness that made every bite a delight. The oysters were fresh and briny, served on a bed of ice with a zesty mignonette sauce that complemented the natural flavor of the shellfish. I couldn’t resist pairing it all with a crisp, local white wine from Queensland, which enhanced the freshness of the seafood even more.
What makes Salt House stand out isn’t just the food but also the setting. The open-air dining area makes you feel as though you’re dining right on the water, with the beautiful Cairns skyline adding to the charm. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed dinner after a day of exploring, or even a casual lunch while watching the boats come and go.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to secure a seat with the best views, it’s best to book ahead. I used Resy, a popular platform for making reservations in Cairns, to secure a table during my stay. It saved me the hassle of waiting and guaranteed a prime spot by the water.
3. Ochre Restaurant: A Unique Twist on Aussie Seafood
For something a little more refined, I ventured to Ochre Restaurant, which offers a distinctive twist on Australian cuisine. Located on the Esplanade, Ochre takes pride in using local, seasonal ingredients and pairing them with a unique approach to cooking.
What stood out here was the chef’s creative use of native Australian ingredients, which added a new dimension to the seafood. I opted for their tasting menu, which featured several courses of locally caught fish, such as barramundi, paired with finger limes, bush tomatoes, and wattleseed. The flavors were bold, yet the seafood was allowed to shine. Each bite felt like a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage.
One of the standout dishes for me was the seared scallops with a native lemon myrtle sauce. The scallops were perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—and the sauce added a refreshing, citrusy zing. The pairing of local spices with fresh seafood was something I had never experienced before, and it was one of the highlights of my culinary adventure in Cairns.
Insider tip: You can book a table at Ochre Restaurant via platforms like OpenTable. I found it to be especially convenient for securing spots at top restaurants in Cairns, where demand is often high, especially during peak seasons.
4. The Raw Prawn: Casual Vibes, Fantastic Seafood
If you’re after a more relaxed dining experience but still want excellent seafood, The Raw Prawn on the Cairns Esplanade should be on your list. This no-frills spot offers an extensive seafood menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The vibe is casual, with a beachy atmosphere perfect for enjoying a relaxed meal by the water.
The highlight at The Raw Prawn is undoubtedly their prawn and crab dishes. I opted for a classic prawn cocktail to start—plump prawns served with a tangy, creamy sauce and a wedge of lemon. Simple, yet incredibly satisfying. For my main course, I couldn’t resist the Moreton Bay bug tail (a local delicacy). It was grilled to perfection and served with a rich, buttery sauce that complemented the sweetness of the shellfish.
What I really appreciated about The Raw Prawn was the variety of ways they prepared seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fresh or a hearty, comforting seafood stew, they had something for every craving.
Pro tip: Booking ahead isn’t as essential here due to the relaxed nature of the restaurant, but it’s still a good idea to use Quandoo or Bookatable to reserve a table if you’re visiting during peak times.
5. Prawn Star: Dining on a Boat
One of the more unique dining experiences in Cairns is Prawn Star, a quirky seafood restaurant located on a trawler in the marina. This floating gem offers a more casual, but no less delicious, take on seafood dining. You won’t find any fancy tablecloths or intricate presentations here—just a laid-back atmosphere and some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste.
I went for the “Prawn Star Experience,” which included a generous serving of prawns, fresh from the boat, served with a side of tangy dipping sauce. The prawns were incredibly fresh, and the simple preparation allowed their natural sweetness to shine through. It was an unpretentious experience, which made it all the more enjoyable.
The charm of Prawn Star lies not only in the food but also in the location. Dining on a boat adds a sense of adventure to the meal, making it a great choice for a casual yet memorable evening out.
6. The Seafood Market: Shop and Dine Fresh
If you’re someone who loves to cook as much as you love to eat, a visit to Cairns Seafood Market is a must. Located just a short drive from the city center, this bustling market is a paradise for anyone looking to take home fresh seafood or enjoy a casual meal at one of the market’s food stalls.
I spent an afternoon here, browsing through the selection of fish, crabs, and shellfish on display. The vendors were all incredibly knowledgeable, offering advice on the best way to cook each variety of seafood. I picked up some fresh snapper to prepare later that evening, but not before grabbing a quick meal at one of the market’s seafood counters.
The fish and chips I had at the market were simple but so delicious. The fish was flaky and light, and the batter was perfectly crisp. Paired with golden fries and a squeeze of lemon, it was the kind of meal that transports you straight to the beach.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to cook seafood back at your accommodation, be sure to check out the Cairns Seafood Market‘s online ordering system. I found it convenient to browse the selection of fresh catches and place an order ahead of time.
7. Booking Your Seafood Experience in Cairns
When it comes to booking your seafood experiences in Cairns, there are a few platforms that make the process incredibly easy. Resy, OpenTable, and Quandoo are great tools to secure reservations at the top seafood restaurants in the area. They not only save you time but also help you find the best spots based on availability and reviews.
Cairns is a food lover’s paradise, especially for anyone who enjoys fresh seafood. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back meal with a view or an innovative culinary experience, Cairns has it all. Enjoy your seafood adventure—each dish is a celebration of the region’s natural bounty.