6 Must-Try Foods and Drinks in Australia: A Traveler's Essential Guide
When visiting Australia, its stunning landscapes, Great Barrier Reef, vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and unique wildlife such as kangaroos and koalas often steal the spotlight. Yet, the country's cuisine deserves equal praise, rivaling global favorites like Thai or Indian. As a seasoned traveler, Australian food ranked among my top experiences Down Under. Discover these iconic dishes and drinks you must try—prepare to feel hungry!
The Best Foods and Drinks to Try in Australia
1. Kangaroo Steak
While kangaroos evoke images of the outback, those served in restaurants are farm-raised for consumption, much like horse in Italy or beef in Argentina. Aussies treat 'roo meat like chicken—it's widely loved for its rich flavor. Find it as steaks, pizza toppings, or more. Kangaroo is the leanest red meat available. Other popular game meats include emu and crocodile.
2. Australian Wine
Australian wines, especially Shiraz, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, enjoy worldwide acclaim. Tasting them at the source elevates the experience. Many wineries offer exclusive varietals not exported. Use the Winery Explorer app to locate nearby spots—ideal for road trips. Wine lovers: a winery visit is essential.
3. Australian Beer
Australia ranks fourth globally in per-capita beer consumption, behind the Czech Republic, Ireland, and Germany. Its oldest brewery dates to 1824 in Tasmania. Far from just Foster's (popular abroad), locals favor Coopers Sparkling and Pale Ale, James Boag's Premium Lager, James Squire, Cascade Premium, Pure Blonde, and Bluetongue Premium Lager. Microbreweries are booming, like Mountain Goat in Melbourne, now exporting to the U.S. About 95% is lager; the rest dark beers and stouts. Visit a Bottle-O for regional selections.
4. Vegemite
Vegemite divides opinions, much like Britain's Marmite. This dark brown yeast extract spread, a beer brewing byproduct spiced with vegetables, is an Aussie staple. Initially off-putting, it grows on you—many travelers become hooked. Now in chips, pies, and more. Give it a few tries; it can be addictive!
5. Lamingtons
These beloved desserts feature sponge cake cubes coated in chocolate and coconut, often with strawberry jam or cream inside. Ubiquitous in bakeries and cafes, they're perfect with coffee. Also try Pavlova (meringue with fruit and cream) and Anzac biscuits—both Kiwi-Aussie icons. Top spots in Sydney: Flour & Stone (43 Riley Street), Sonoma Bakery (Bondi, Manly, Glebe), Tokyo Lamington (Level 3/9 Hay St, Haymarket). In Melbourne: Cooper & Milla's (1094 High St, Armadale), Beatrix (688 Queensberry St, North Melbourne), Candied Bakery (81A Hudsons Rd, Spotswood).
6. Meat Pies
A national obsession, meat pies—flaky pastry filled with minced meat, gravy, and options like mushrooms, cheese, or onions—rival Britain's pasties. Sold everywhere, they're the ultimate grab-and-go snack. You won't leave Australia without trying several.
Visited Australia? What foods or drinks would you add to this list?
