One of the most culturally diverse populations in the world, Australia’s multicultural heritage translates into its cuisine. With its Indigenous heritage, colonial past and cultural mingling from all over the world, experience Australia’s unique culinary profile with a trip down under, and sample some of its most iconic dishes.

Álvaro Hurtado Valdivia, Pavlova postre, CC BY-SA 4.0

Start your day with:

  • Vegemite on Toast: This iconic breakfast spread, made from concentrated yeast extract, is an acquired taste. Australians love it on toast with lashings of butter!
  • Damper: Traditionally prepared by the women of indigenous tribes, this bush bread is a simple yet satisfying option, often baked in a camp oven over hot coals,  Alternatively, for a more continental breakfast option, try a bite with some Quandong Jam, made from bush berries, or a drizzle of bush Honey.

Build a delectable lunch or dinner with:

  • Barbeque “Snags”: No Aussie experience is complete without a meal straight from the ‘barbie! Sink your teeth into sausages, steaks, and shrimp cooked to perfection on a barbeque grill.
  • Grilled Kangaroo: Embrace a taste of adventure with kangaroo meat. One of the most widely consumed meats in the country, kangaroo is more lean and flavourful than a cut of beef, and a healthy alternative to traditional BBQ fare.
  • Barramundi: Fresh from Aussie waters, barramundi is a delicious white fish with a mild, sweet flavour. Enjoy it grilled, baked, pan-fried, or smothered in a marinade of lemon myrtle (Garrong), as per indigenous tradition. For those in the mood for a fancier dining experience (and are on the Gold Coast), try the coral coast Barramundi at Miss Moneypenny’s, considered one of the best hotel bars and restaurants in the area, and located in Avani Hotels & Resorts.

Explore the nation of snacks:

  • Sausage Rolls & Meat Pies: These savoury pastries are quintessential Aussie snacks. Sausage rolls are flaky pastries filled with sausage meat, while meat pies come in various fillings like beef, chicken, or even curry, found in any pub or at any event.
  • Crab Sticks: A favourite beach snack, these deep-fried goodies are made from imitation crab (processed white fish), and enjoyed with sweet chilli sauce for a delightful bite.
  • Tim Tams: No Aussie pantry is complete without Tim Tams. These iconic biscuits have become a global sensation, with their layers of chocolate biscuit sandwiched with creamy filling, and coated in delicious milk chocolate.

Finally, top off your meal with a serving of:

  • Lamington: Do not leave without trying this classic Aussie dessert. These fluffy sponge cakes are dipped in chocolate and rolled in desiccated coconut.
  • Pavlova: This show-stopping dessert features a meringue base topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Light and airy, pavlova is a perfect ending to a hearty Aussie feast.