Where to eat and drink in Cairns
Cairns is home to some of the best cafe’s, bars and restaurants (in our opinion). With our close proximity to the ocean for fresh seafood, and the Atherton Tablelands AKA the ‘fruit bowl of Australia’ and an array of coffee plantations, our eats and drinks are always fresh, and always tasty. From tiki bars to Australia’s best smashed avo, check out our favourite local spots to wine and dine in Cairns.
Image credit: Wolf Lane
Wolf Lane & Three Wolves
Wolf Lane in Cairns CBD is home to Wolf Lane Distillery and Three Wolves. Once an old horse stable from the early 1900’s, a hundred years on the space has become Cairns’ first gin distillery. But if gin’s not your thing, Three Wolves boasts an array of whiskeys, and both spots specialise in every cocktail you can imagine, with a side of tapa’s.
If you’re after a bright tropical feel, then award-winning Wolf Lane Distillery is the go-to destination for any self-respecting gin lover visiting or living in Cairns. But if you’re looking for a moody, dark, intimate space - Three Wolves is it. We suggest hitting both spots, coz why not? Wolf Lane also hosts events, giving you the opportunity to absorb that tropical sun and make the most of the warm winter.
Image credit: Flamingos Tiki Bar
Flamingos Tiki Bar
A modern take on a tropical tiki bar hidden beneath street level on the Cairns esplanade, Flamingos is a fun spot for exuberant cocktails, teapots, and neon lights. You’ll be surrounded by tropical prints, palm trees, bamboo, and a range of hula girls on the walls. If you’re looking for something to gram, this spot will deliver.
Flamingos specialises in creating obnoxious specialty drinks using a variety of rums, liquors, exotic syrups, bitters, and fresh juices, served in dramatic vessels with over-the-top garnishes - it’s definitely an experience.
Image credit: Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roastery
Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roastery
Off the classic beaten tourist path lies Tattooed Sailor. A popular spot for coffee aficionados, the roastery is guaranteed to deliver great coffee from every corner of the world. They also provide beans for a range of spots in Cairns, so you know they’re good. If you wanna get all up in it, they also offer coffee courses and merch, so you know they’re hardcore.
Image credit: Guerrilla
Guerrilla
Guerrilla is our resident modern Mexican joint that does it all. We do have a preference for all things tacos and tequila, so if you’re anything like us - you’ll love it. Utilising the local FNQ produce and the big world of tequila, agave, and mezcal, you won’t be disappointed by their range of margarita’s. They also regularly adjust their menu to suit the season, so it’s guaranteed to always be fresh and zingy, and likely a little indulgent. That’s what holidays are for though, right?
Image credit: Guyala Café
Guyala Café
Pronounced goo-ya-la, the local Yirrganydji word for the White Breasted Sea Eagle, as well as the name of the mountain range embracing the Southern side of Trinity Inlet. This spot is integrated with the not-for-profit Spinal Life Australia and is fully accessible to all abilities, making sure the inclusivity vibes are strong – and so is the coffee.
Guyala Café not only has a great omnivorous and vego menu, but it’s a prime spot to grab a coffee and catch some early rays. Located just off the northern end of the Esplanade, it makes for a perfect spot to sit and chill or go for a stroll and wonder what it would be like to live here – pretty great obviously.
They recently were awarded as finalists in Avocados Australia 2022 Australia’s Best Avo Toast Competition.
Image credit: Mama Coco
Mama Coco
Mama Coco is all about celebrating eclectic flavours and homely island hospitality. Offering a range of food, Mama Coco has everything from baked indulgences to juices, to classic breakfasts and healthy bowls. They regularly change up their menu to suit seasonal produce, so it’s worth revisiting. We’ve heard their sausage rolls are top notch too.
Have we convinced you yet? Cairns is host to some of the best cafe’s, bars and restaurants in Australia. Looking for cheap things to do in Cairns? Check out this blog.