Australia: the Greatest Restaurant on Earth
The following extract is taken from Flight Centre magazine The Experts, with words by Lauren Jarvis and photos as credited.
Photo Credit: Tourism Australia
How many people do you meet who claim to have ‘done’ Australia, but add as a cheeky disclaimer, that they didn't quite make it to the west coast? Western Australia (WA), four hours closer to the UK than Sydney, is a diverse state that covers almost a third of the country, home to vibrant towns, pristine beaches with sugar-white sand, three UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites and some of the planet’s most incredible wildlife – all waiting to be discovered under an endless, blue sky (the capital city, Perth, has more hours of sunshine than any other city in Australia).
Home to pristine beaches, iconic landmarks and incredible natural landscapes, Australia is one of the world’s greatest holiday destinations and now its unique food and wine experiences are putting the country firmly on the gourmet travel map too. With a booming restaurant scene, some of the world’s finest-quality produce and the exciting Margaret River wine region to explore, Western Australia is the perfect destination for a great gourmet escape.
With its unique gourmet experiences, Restaurant Australia is definitely open for business. But it won’t be a secret for long, so we suggest you make a reservation.
Perth: cosmopolitan cuisine
Perth is experiencing an exciting restaurant and bar boom, with hot new eateries like Brika, Bib & Tucker and Pleased to Meet You reflecting WA’s multicultural melting pot. This new wave of drinking and dining options makes the most of the incredible location and weather, while a multitude of coffee shops will soothe sore heads the morning after. Then make for the wineries and restaurants of the gorgeous Swan Valley to do it all again.
Margaret River: wine and dine
Just three hours south of Perth, the Margaret River region is a mecca for foodies, who come to enjoy artisan cheese, chocolate and olive oil. Visit the microbreweries producing craft beers and sample fine dining restaurants serving locally caught seafood. And did we mention the wine? More than 250 producers and 100 cellar doors offer award-winning Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons and Semillon Sauvignon Blancs. After a day exploring the region’s beautiful beaches, surfing spots and caves, you’ll certainly deserve a glass of the finest.
Manjimup: trees and truffles
The south west region of WA boasts majestic forests that are home to some of the planet’s largest and oldest karri trees (a type of eucalyptus), while sweeping dunes and wetlands fringe the coastline. But the interior is home to riches of a more edible kind: black superior Périgord truffles, known as ‘black diamonds’ for the high price they fetch. WA is the biggest producer outside of Europe, exporting to top international restaurants. The Truffle & Wine Co. offers forest truffle hunts with the chance to taste truffle infused honeys, oils and mustards after the dig.
Coral Coast: wild wonders
Photo Credit: Lauryn Ishak
WA’s Coral Coast offers one of Australia’s most scenic drives, with natural wonders and gourmet surprises at every turn. Visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, with its 350-million-year-old stromatolites (the world’s oldest living lifeforms). Carnarvon is a tasty stop-off, offering such foodie delights as succulent tropical fruits, and excellent restaurants using the best local ingredients. Sounds like it’s time to hit the road.
Broome: the pearl of the west
Situated in the north of the state, the buzzy town of Broome, gateway to the Kimberley, is where the red soil of the Outback meets the turquoise Indian Ocean. Once a centre for pearl fishers, Broome drew divers from across Asia, helping to establish the exciting, eclectic food scene thriving here today. Go to Chinatown for spicy Asian cuisine, while Western Australia’s top chefs prepare barramundi and pearl oysters in restaurants including Selene at the Pinctada Hotel near Cable Beach. For an authentic indigenous experience, join a local Aboriginal guide for a day fishing and crabbing at Hunter’s Creek.
Experience a taste of Western Australia in London with Tourism Australia
Photo Credit: Lauryn Ishak
Just for one night, Tourism Australia is offering the chance to enjoy the flavours of Western Australia at a special dinner in the heart of London’s Covent Garden and win a VIP trip for two to Western Australia. Set in the splendour of the Australian High Commission, guests will enjoy a delicious three-course menu inspired by Western Australia and served with specially selected wines to complement each dish. Find out more here.
Inspired to visit Western Australia? Take a look at our WA flight deals here.
