Ah, Byron Bay. The most popular holiday destination on the East Coast of Australia As a Byron native, I can understand the hype all too well, and am consistently asked where the best places to dine are in the small beach town.
In an area where restaurants that have good avocado toast and kitsch, beachy interiors take centre stage for being ‘must-visits’, I’ve learned how to separate the mediocre from the legitimately good, and so on. Not to toot my own horn but here we are, tooting it. Read on for my picks that won’t make you feel like a fool for wasting your money.
Moonlight
Moonlight is everything you want when you dine out: a good vibe, dialled in staff, and some of the best Japanese food on the east cost. A hibachi grill and wine bar, the venue serves up small plates and skewers, plus a wine list with everything from skin contact to shiraz. You’re guaranteed a great meal and a good time — what more can you ask for? It’s also right in the middle of town, so the perfect place to start your night out, should you be so inclined.
La Casita
Honestly some of the best Mexican food on this side of the globe. Situated next to the Brunswick River in Brunswick Heads, La Casita is the kind of place you meander over to after an afternoon beer at the local pub post-beach day.
Fleet
Led by chef Josh Lewis (also the owner of La Casita), Fleet is one of the most prolific restaurants in the Northern Rivers. With an ever-changing set-menu and a waiting list that is often backed up for months at a time, you’ll need to book in advance. But when you do get in? The wait will be worth your while.
Beach Byron Bay
What used to be the beach cafe that you’d swing past for a B&E roll or ice block before/after a swim at Clarkes beach has been transformed into a dreamy dinner location with a dining experience to trump many others. Located on Clarkes beach, book in for an early dinner before the sun goes down and watch it set as you dine looking out at the ocean. The menu offers simple, elevated Italian style cuisine with all the right touches.
Raes on Wategoes
Skip the dining room and head to the cellar bar after spending the day at Wategoes beach. With walk-in’s welcome, the new Cellar Bar menu provides quintessential Australian snack items reimagined. If you’re heading there during summer, the classic prawn butty won’t disappoint.
Light Years
Known for its modern Asian menu and punchy cultural references, Light Years balances bold, bright flavours with a tightly curated vibe. The crowd is as much a drawcard as the food, with locals and visitors alike spilling in for snacks, share plates and cult-favourite bao.
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Image credit: @lacasita.brunswick, @fleetrestaurant, @divinobyronbay, @beachbyronbay, @raesonwategoes
