Open the pantry doors to the smorgasbord of Sunshine Coast restaurants, surf clubs and breweries found across our mouthwatering array of local places to visit. We’ll have you sipping on local beers in Caloundra, tucking into umami Asian street food in Mooloolaba, and savouring quality pub fare in Gympie. Take a seat at the table and tuck in!
Northward nourishment
Bistro C, Noosa
If you were any closer to the beach, you’d have sand between your toes. When it comes to oceanfront views, you can’t beat Bistro C, which gazes across the sparkling shore of Noosa Main Beach. Open for lunch or dinner, you can toast the sunset with a lychee mojito while watching the waves lap against the sand beyond, before letting the food do all the talking. Settle in and enjoy dining on Bistro C classics like their coconut chicken salad and Fraser Isle spaghetti with cherry tomato, garlic, lemon, chilli and capers.
Other Noosa area restaurants to check out include Lucio’s Marina at Tewantin, where you’ll be treated to the spectacular flavours of Northern Italy, and Somedays Pizza – a hotspot for wood-fired goodness and fun cocktails.
Further inland
Shopping at Eumundi Markets
No trip to the Sunshine Coast is complete without a visit to the Eumundi Markets, and while you’re in town, you’ll want to grab a table for brunch at Bella 101, which you’ll find nestled inside a gorgeous historic local building. Fresh local produce takes centre stage in the meals here, which are brimming with clean, modern Australian flavours. We’re talking waffles with berry compote and maple syrup, a classic steak sandwich, and bowls of fries with garlic aioli.
It’s hard to go wrong with a casual night at the pub, and The Phoenix Hotel in Gympie knows how to please a crowd. Get comfy in the spacious bistro and choose between classics like burgers, chicken parmigiana, and BBQ ribs, or head to the No.2 Lounge Bar, where nibbles and boutique beers take centre stage.
Keeping it central
Coolum Surf Club
You’ll be in prime surf club country at Coolum, where the Coolum Surf Club serves hearty meals while overlooking the sparkling ocean beyond. This is the ideal spot to re-fuel after a morning surfing the waves (or even having a lesson), and you’ll find plenty to like amongst the fresh Mooloolaba prawns, burgers, and grilled steaks on offer.
Paddock-to-plate might sound like a trendy buzzword, but the team at Mapleton Public House take their dedication to low food miles very seriously. With a menu that draws inspiration from the fresh produce at the nearby Falls Farm (only 3km down the road), you’ll be set to enjoy the best of local flavours while seated on the verandah overlooking the Hinterland hills. The ‘Fillet O Fish’ and Farm Risotto are particular highlights!
Rice Boi, Mooloolaba
Enjoy an iconic Sunshine Coast dining experience just 10 minutes from Maroochydore at Harry’s on Buderim. Here, you’ll combine the best of local history and good food inside a gorgeous homestead that’s more than 140 years old. Modern Australian cuisine acts as the base for offerings like golden seared confit duck leg, and crispy skinned Coral Coast saltwater barramundi.
We’ve all heard of the famous Mooloolaba prawn, but fabulous fresh seafood is only the start of the foodie journey at this iconic beachside town. If you’re keen to hit the water, hop aboard Saltwater Eco Tours’ beautiful Huon-pine vessel that'll have you gliding along the glistening waters of the Mooloolah River in no time. Sip a cocktail and dine on canapé-style bushtucker fare, all while developing a deeper connection to Country.
Back on shore, say g’day to Rice Boi – a popular local destination for modern Asian street food. Based at The Wharf and boasting waterfront views, Rice Boi brings a fun urban vibe to the dining game, with plenty of neon lights illuminating the space, and familiar favourites filling the menu. Dive into their 10-hour coconut braised beef or load up on crispy eggplant chips and house-made siracha steamed pork buns.
Savour our south
Moffat Beach Brewing Co, Moffat Beach, Sunshine Coast
Get hands-on at Jango, a popular new Korean BBQ restaurant located in Kawana. Bring along your mates and hear the mouthwatering sizzle of Wagyu as you cook it over the coals, or fill up your table with tteokbokki, beef bulgogi and bibimbap, before washing everything down with a cold beer.
In Caloundra, views and brews combine at Moffat Beach Brewing Co, which is only a short walk from the shore. This local institution has fast made a name for itself on the craft beer stage, boasting a swag of awards including Brewer of the Year, and Champion Independent Queensland Brewery. You won’t go hungry, either, with the kitchen slinging plates of potato wedges and chicken wings to keep everyone happy.
