The best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast, Noosa ranked | Full list
The hospitality scene is making a comeback on the Sunshine Coast after a hard slog through the pandemic. See our list of the region’s top eateries.
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The hospitality scene has been making a comeback on the Sunshine Coast after a hard slog through the pandemic with some new favourite restaurants emerging.
From funky Asian-fusion venues to up-market bistros, the region certainly has no shortage of unique dining options where the quality of both food and service are prioritised.
Tony Kelly is the owner of nine of the most popular eateries on the Sunshine Coast, including Rice Boi, Market Bistro and Giddy Geisha.
Mr Kelly said the food and beverage scene from Caloundra through to Noosa was experiencing an exciting period where new restaurants were opening and old favourites were thriving.
“It feels like the Sunshine Coast has grown up … there's a lot of well educated, well travelled people that live here now and their expectations are good food, good service and nice wine and drinks,” Mr Kelly said.
“You’ve got Ocean St which has clearly stamped its mark on the late night venues like nightclubs and bars, then you’ve places like The Wharf where we feed all the families and the new Maroochydore CBD which is a whole different market altogether.”
With newcomers coming from the southern and northern regions and the housing market soaring, Mr Kelly said it’s no surprise his team have been so busy.
Despite the influx of tourists, Mr Kelly said his focus has always been on the locals and making sure their needs are met at his venues.
“We’ve always tried to target the locals as our bread and butter, they're what makes our restaurants successful, the tourists put a bit of a cherry on top,” he said.
“I think it’s just all this Covid nonsense that has certainly highlighted what a great place we have here.”
Take a look at the our list of the Coast’s most-loved and highest-rated restaurants below:
Humble on Duke, Sunshine Beach
Description: Humble on Duke is an intimate 14-seater restaurant. We serve food that can be described as Modern Australian with flavours and spices from the Middle East.
Google rating: 5 stars (75 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 5 stars (32 reviews)
Combined star rating: 5 stars
Customer review: “Oh my goodness. From start to finish, this was an extraordinary experience. The service was delightful, and the food …. Wow! I’ve not had a meal like this on the Coast.”
Infusion Thai, Maroochydore
Description: Infusion Cafe & Thai is all about bringing the mouth-watering, authentic flavours of Thailand to the Sunny Coast. We’ve created a casual, laid back vibe – where you’ll feel welcomed and comfortable and can enjoy the amazing flavours of our Thai dishes.
Google rating: 4.9 stars (153 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 5 stars (9 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.95 stars
Customer review: “The most amazing Thai food we have ever had the privilege of experiencing. We thoroughly enjoyed our entire dining experience.”
CB Thai Cuisine, Kuluin
Description: At CB Thai Cuisine we offer meals of excellent quality and invite you to try our Thai street food. The key to our success is simple: providing quality consistent food, that real Thai taste great every single time.
Google rating: 4.8 stars (162 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 5 stars (25 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.9 stars
Customer review: “This is the most authentic Thai on the Sunshine Coast! The staff were friendly and welcoming.”
Sumi Open Kitchen, Noosa Heads
Description: Watching your meal being prepared by the chefs as you sit back in the stylish, cosy decor of Sumi Open Kitchen brings a whole new level of enjoyment to your Japanese dining experience.
Google rating: 4.8 stars (158 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 5 stars (111 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.9 stars
Customer review: “Some of the best Japanese food I have had. Fantastic service, knowledgeable staff, great atmosphere. We had the 6 course menu and could not be happier.”
Orleans Restaurant and Bar, Maroochydore
Description: Stylish setting for contemporary, upscale American cuisine with a French twist, plus tasting menus.
Google rating: 4.8 stars (521 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (309 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.65 stars
Customer review: “Treat your tastebuds to this place. Just an outstanding menu through and through, New Orleans classics thrown in with some French flavour and flair. We wanted to order the entire menu, all of it was so enticing.”
Harry’s on Buderim, Buderim
Description: Modern Australian dining in a century-old home with a veranda offering rainforest views.
Google rating: 4.7 stars (347 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (454 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.6 stars
Customer review: “It was an amazing dining experience from the friendly attentive staff to the amazing dishes we chose. A standout for me was the quail entree, have never tried quail before and absolutely loved it.”
Noosa Waterfront, Noosaville
Description: Elegant glass-walled restaurant with a laid-back vibe, for upscale Italian cuisine and river views.
Google rating: 4.7 stars (717 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (694 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.6 stars
Customer review: “From the moment you arrive, you are made to feel warm & welcomed, as if having a meal with your favourite family members. The service, ambience and food is all first class. Great Italian inspired food and a fabulous wine/drinks offering.”
Spirit House, Yandina
Description: Contemporary Thai dining with dishes to share, served in tranquil tropical gardens.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (358 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1,796 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “Food was spectacular and presentation an art form on its own. We were lucky enough to get a table by the lake which made for a very Zen-like experience. Service was attentive and informative and we experienced one of the best lunches we’ve ever had.”
Sum Yung Guys, Noosaville
Description: Innovative Asian-fusion small and share plates served in an airy space with a cool street-food vibe.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (1246 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1153 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “Epitomises excellence in food, service and venue. A cheeky play on words with an Asian street style vibe in both cuisine and quirky branding.”
Green Zebra, Parrearra
Description: Situated on Kawana Island and overlooking the picturesque Double Bay, the Green Zebra offers delicious Modern Australian food and drinks, all made with only the freshest seasonal produce.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (954 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (520 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “Staff are very welcoming and friendly and very attentive. Food was excellent and the view is fantastic. We had a brilliant lunch on a sunny day and enjoyed every moment.”
Tides Waterfront Dining, Caloundra
Description: High-end restaurant serving seafood and meat-focused mains in a chic space with 270-degree views.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (812 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (693 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “From the second we walked in we were treated like royalty. The cocktails were the strongest and yummiest I’ve had in a while. And the seafood was just amazing. Was blown away by the price of our bill as we expected it to be a lot higher than it was.”
Betty’s Burgers, Noosa
Description: Betty’s Burgers & Concrete Co. is a classic burger shack, serving the freshest, juiciest and most mouth-watering burgers in town.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (2314 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (2742 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “By far the best Betty’s Burgers. Have been to many of the stores. But this particular store the burgers are better and the service is amazing.”
ALBA by Kuruvita, Noosa Heads
Description: Tucked away in Noosa Heads, ALBA by Kuruvita is a hub of food and beverage offerings with Sunshine Coast produce and the local community at its heart.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (42 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (18 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “We loved dining at Alba. The seafood was perfectly cooked with generous servings. Each dish was unique and the flavour impeccable! Service was lovely and made our young kids comfortable.”
Junk, Maroochydore
Description: Junk specialises in Asian Fusion Food inspired by Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian and Chinese. Dishes are created with fresh locally-sourced ingredients.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (727 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (345reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “Absolutely delicious! Every plate we had from Junk was full of flavour combinations that just work. Popcorn chicken is a must.”
Ricky’s River Bar & Restaurant, Noosa Heads
Description: Fine modern European cuisine in a light, elegantly designed space with tranquil water views.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (522 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1215 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.55 stars
Customer review: “Incredible. Came here with my family and the food and service was absolutely amazing. Staff were so friendly and the restaurant was beautiful.”
Rice Boi, Mooloolaba
Description: Harbourside restaurant with a trendy vibe offering Asian street food, plus a cocktail bar.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (1657 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (609 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “Have eaten here a number of times for lunch. Always consistently great food and service. The best spring rolls ever.”
Sails Restaurant, Noosa
Description: Thoughtfully sourced modern Australian cuisine in a quietly stylish spot with three-storey wine cellar.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (652 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1654 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “Our go to restaurant in Noosa, always an excellent experience, from the ambience to the staff and of course the quality of the food and wine.”
Three Restaurant Bar & Grill, Caloundra
Description: A step up from your average bar and grill. Three’s dining style is simple and uncomplicated offering a contemporary modern Australian menu with an emphasis on excellent local produce and an efficient service style.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (479 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (356 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “This has to be the best food in Caloundra at the moment. Nine of us enjoyed dinner with all agreeing the food was sensational and staff exceptional.”
Embassy XO Restaurant and Bar, Sunshine Beach
Description: Yum Cha, Modern Asian food and cocktails in a light, trendy space with red and gold decor.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (303 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (596 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “Highly recommended! We really enjoyed all of the dishes that we had, they were all very tasty, especially the fish. We are from Sydney and are very fussy eaters we would definitely would go back to this restaurant again.”
Dirty Moes, Mooloolaba
Description: Offbeat haunt with movie-themed decor serving grilled meat and seafood, plus craft beers & cocktails.
Google rating: 4.5 stars (766 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (179 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.5 stars
Customer review: “Amazing food. Most delicious meal we had while holidaying in Mooloolaba. Huge meal that’s melts in your mouth. The cocktail was the best I have ever had.”
Milan’s, Buderim
Description: Located in the heart of beautiful Buderim, Milan’s brings the tradition and excitement of Italy to the Sunshine Coast with an intimate, homely and friendly atmosphere for you to enjoy.
Google rating: 4.4 stars (185 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (217 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.45 stars
Customer review: “One of our favourite restaurants on the Sunshine Coast and the very best in Buderim. House lasagne is always delicious as are the pizzas. The owners are on hand to ensure perfect service every time.”
Spice Bar, Mooloolaba
Description: An acclaimed eatery with chic decor and ocean views, serving Asian Fusion dishes and banquets.
Google rating: 4.4 stars (393 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1139 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.45 stars
Customer review: “Every dish was superb. Special mention to the excellent staff who served our meals. Spice Bar is an outstanding restaurant and foodies will adore dining here. Highly recommended.”
Locale, Noosa Heads
Description: Refined Italian restaurant and bar with black decor, glass walls and plush banquettes.
Google rating: 4.4 stars (724 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (1439 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.45 stars
Customer review: “The food was exceptional. Authentic Italian taste. The dishes weren’t huge but we were left very satisfied. Our waiter was attentive, friendly and had great recommendations. The ambience of the restaurant is lovely.”
The Long Apron, Montville
Description: French-inspired cuisine with a well-earnt reputation for innovative dining experiences, The Long Apron is a chef hatted restaurant on the Sunshine Coast.
Google rating: 4.4 stars (140 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (407 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.45 stars
Customer review: “Very impressive experience of fine dining and escape from busy/noisy locations. The restaurant decor is charming and classy. Foods are beautiful and tasty.”
Honeysuckle, Buderim
Description: Owner Seung Joo Kim and his team have artfully brought together seasonal produce, East Asian flavours, and modern technique to deliver the Sunshine Coast’s best Yum Cha style lunch menu.
Google rating: 4.8 stars (381 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4 stars (31 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.4 stars
Customer review: “The venue was absolutely stunning. The food was literally art on a plate and so delicious, you could see how hard working the chefs were.”
Bang Bang, Noosa
Description: ShowcasingSoutheast Asian Cuisine, this exotic restaurant sits on Hastings Street and offers share-style options.
Google rating: 4.3 stars (246 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (87 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.4 stars
Customer review: “I have visited Bang Bang a few times now and have always been so impressed by the food and service. The food has so much flavour and is great portion size to share amongst the group.”
Bella Venezia, Mooloolaba
Description: An award-winning, long-running restaurant with tiled floors and a chic lounge for Italian favourites like pizza and pasta.
Google rating: 4.1 stars (1044 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5 stars (2,926 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.3 stars
Customer review: “We could not fault the service, the venue, the menu, the food or the extensive wine list. It is evident that the staff all enjoy working here.”
Giddy Geisha, Maroochydore
Description: Cool restaurant with an industrial vibe, offering modern Asian street food like curries and eggplant chips.
Google rating: 4.6 stars (278 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4 stars (24 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.3 stars
Customer review: “The food is insane good. Explosion of flavours in your mouth. Always good and well priced. Staff have been friendly my last few times so that always makes your experience much better.”
Market Bistro, Maroochydore
Description: Market Bistro is a quintessential European style bistro, offering a classic “bistro style” menu featuring house made pasta, and a great selection of dry aged meats and a bunch of export quality local seafood.
Google rating: 4.4 stars (250 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4 stars (49 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.2 stars
Customer review: “Fantastic experience, we enjoyed the atmosphere so much, the venue is stunning. The meals where all bang on, really good fresh produce wonderfully enhanced.”
The Boat Shed, Cotton Tree
Description: Cocktails and creative modern Australian mains, tapas and desserts, with panoramic river views.
Google rating: 4.3 stars (947 reviews)
TripAdvisor rating: 4 stars (1,238 reviews)
Combined star rating: 4.15 stars
Customer review: “Amazing food with amazing staff. Can’t rate the service high enough. Food was delicious and excellent value for money. We will definitely be back.”
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