Australians love to eat out and with so many different dining experiences available, we could eat our way around the world without leaving our shores. Our multi-cultural society has provided us with a variety of cuisine types and cooking styles, and Australians have been quick to embrace the more spicy and exotic cuisines of our neighbours. Major cities in particular offer a wide range of cultural dining experiences that hold to cuisine heritage and cooking styles, but even country towns can boast Chinese, Thai or Vietnamese restaurants. Trying different cuisines makes for some great dining adventures.

Asian cuisine

Discover the fun of a Teppanyaki restaurant, a Japanese-style steak house where you may watch multiple chefs cooking the meals. Another option is Yum Cha, a Chinese morning or afternoon tea consisting of steamed dim sims and dumpling style food served on trays. As an alternative to the popular Thai restaurant, try a Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian or Burmese meal, which utilise similar ingredients and menu choices and can be a taste sensation.

Latin cuisine

Tapas are snacks, canapés or finger food that originated in Spain and can be cold, such as cheese or olives, or warm, such as fried squid or stuffed capsicum. Order a number of small tapas meals along with a jug of sangria, standing at a bar or seated at table, and engage in conversation with friends. Brazilian cuisine features substantial barbecued meats, whereas Mexican restaurants offer beans, rice and spicy cheese sauces.

High tea

Experience the lunchtime or afternoon delights of a High Tea. High Tea originated in Britain and is a light lunch or afternoon tea consisting of selections of cold meats, sandwiches and a range of cakes served on tiered stands and platters. High Tea has become popular in Australia and is offered at some hotels and fine restaurants.

Degustation

For a really special treat, indulge in a degustation menu, which involves sampling small portions of numerous dishes over many courses. Degustation menus are generally designed by experienced chefs and come with a set price which can be considerably more than normal dining. Book a taxi or limousine for the trip home to complete the experience.

Cruise or fly

Australia is surrounded by sea, and along its huge coastline and rivers you will find cruising restaurants that offer lunches, dinners and also fine dining. Or, try a fly and dine package, travelling from a harbour or wharf to a restaurant by seaplane and eating your meal in a restaurant by the water. Major cities have rooftop high-rise restaurants offering expansive views of the city, and some even have revolving restaurants for a panoramic view.

No matter what your food preference, there is a restaurant or café that has new dining experiences just waiting to be explored. Find a local restaurant that captures your imagination and make a reservation.