Cooking with coals is a tradition that has endured through centuries, celebrated in kitchens around the world for its ability to transform simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. This elemental cooking method imbues food with deep, smoky flavours and perfectly caramelised textures that are hard to replicate using modern appliances. Across cultures, from Indian tandoors and Japanese charcoal grills to Vietnamese street food, cooking with coals is an art form that brings out the best in ingredients, combining high heat and subtle smokiness to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Punjab Pavilion – Newcastle City, NSW
Discover a heritage of Indian flavours at Punjab Pavilion, a culinary gem located on Hunter Street in Newcastle City. With its elegant interiors of black-and-gold table settings, sparkling glassware and walls adorned with traditional artwork, this restaurant provides an upscale yet welcoming ambience. Punjab Pavilion specialises in delivering authentic Indian dishes, blending rich spices and fresh ingredients to craft a menu that takes diners on a flavourful journey through India’s diverse culinary landscape.
At the heart of the menu is the tandoor oven, an integral part of Indian cooking that uses coal-fired heat to create perfectly charred meats, smoky naan bread and aromatic vegetables. The tandoori chicken, marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, emerges from the oven with a tantalising smokiness that pairs beautifully with their fluffy cheese naan. For curry lovers, dishes like Bombay lamb, cooked with a tomato-based curry, fenugreek leaves and tender potatoes, deliver a perfect balance of spice and richness. Pair these with fragrant coconut rice and crispy papadums for an unforgettable dining experience. At Punjab Pavilion, the mastery of coal-fired cooking adds depth to every dish, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of bold, authentic Indian cuisine.
Elevate your dining experience at Soka, a Japanese charcoal restaurant nestled on Ocean Street in Maroochydore. This venue captures the sophistication and essence of Japanese dining, with a sleek modernist design complemented by gentle classical and jazz music that fills the air. From the moment you walk in, the intoxicating aroma of coal-fired grilling greets you, promising a culinary journey inspired by the bustling streets of Nagoya, Osaka and Tokyo.
The star of Soka’s menu is its expertly crafted Japanese charcoal dishes, which balance delicate flavours with a smoky undertone. Begin your meal with in a variety of skewers, such as scallop with miso garlic butter, salt and chives. For main courses, the Scotch fillet with wafu sauce, garnished with garlic chips and shichimi spice, showcases the artful pairing of charred meats with bold Japanese flavours. Soka also offers lighter options, like the salmon teriyaki with burnt cucumber yogurt, alongside exquisite desserts such as coconut sorbet paired with lychee and raspberry granita. This venue seamlessly blends traditional techniques with contemporary flair, offering a truly immersive and elevated Japanese dining experience.
Hidden within the bustling streets of Braddon, BanMe is a Vietnamese eatery that redefines the concept of comfort food with its soulful dishes and warm hospitality. Located inside Waves Car Wash, this unassuming gem surprises diners with its authentic Vietnamese Highlands recipes, passed down through generations and enriched with fresh local ingredients. The cosy ambience, infused with the aromas of traditional cooking, instantly makes you feel at home.
Coal-fired cooking takes centre stage at BanMe, with dishes like charcoal-grilled beef served alongside a perfectly fried egg, jasmine rice and a refreshing garden salad. The flavours are bold yet balanced, with the smokiness of the beef complementing the freshness of the sides. Another highlight is the charcoal chicken banh mi, a classic Vietnamese sandwich featuring tender, smoky chicken layered with pickled carrots, cucumbers, chili and coriander inside a crusty baguette. For a lighter option, their signature beef pho is a comforting bowl of aromatic broth, rice noodles and tender slices of beef that feel like a warm embrace. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a hearty meal, BanMe celebrates the essence of Vietnamese cuisine while showcasing the art of cooking with coals.
Diplomat Bar & Grill – Griffith, ACT
Nestled within the Ramada Diplomat Hotel, Diplomat Bar & Grill is the perfect spot to experience modern Australian cuisine with a touch of coal-fired brilliance. The restaurant’s elegant interiors, featuring lush greenery, stylish blue chairs and intimate table settings, create a chic yet approachable atmosphere ideal for both casual dining and celebratory occasions.
The menu at Diplomat Bar & Grill highlights the versatility of coal-fired cooking, with standout dishes like the Scotch fillet steak, cooked to perfection and served with creamy potato pave, char-grilled asparagus and cowboy butter. The smoky undertones of the grill enhance the natural flavours of the premium cut, creating a dish that’s both hearty and refined. For those seeking something bold, the smoked BBQ pork ribs deliver a satisfying combination of tender meat and rich barbecue sauce, paired with a refreshing pumpkin and quinoa salad. Whether you’re enjoying a cheeky cocktail at the bar or savouring a leisurely dinner, Diplomat Bar & Grill seamlessly combines comfort and sophistication, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Step into the world of Japanese barbecue at Yakiniku Hon, where tradition and modernity collide to create a dining experience like no other. Located on New Canterbury Road in Petersham, this spacious and stylish restaurant offers diners the chance to engage with their food through the art of coal-fired grilling. The sleek decor, paired with warm lighting and attentive service, sets the perfect stage for both intimate meals and group celebrations.
Specialising in Yakiniku-style dining, Yakiniku Hon lets guests take control of their culinary journey, grilling premium cuts of meat, seafood and vegetables over individual coal-fired grills. Highlights of the menu include full-blood Wagyu sirloin, pork belly and succulent short ribs, all of which are meticulously prepared to ensure the highest quality. For a unique twist, adventurous diners can opt for the roasted eel, a delicacy that pairs beautifully with steamed rice and an assortment of char-grilled vegetables. With its focus on premium ingredients and interactive dining, Yakiniku Hon delivers a memorable experience that celebrates the art and flavour of Japanese barbecue.
