When the craving for comfort food hits, nothing else will do. Whether it’s the creamy richness of a slow-cooked curry, the hearty satisfaction of a well-made burrito, or the nostalgic warmth of dumplings, Australia has no shortage of eateries ready to serve up dishes that soothe the soul. We’ve scoured the country for some of the best spots where indulgence is key—places that wrap you up in their cozy ambiance and feed you like family. Here are three standouts that take comfort food to the next level.
Kathmandu Newa Chhe'n – Paddington, QLD
Tucked inside a charming old Queenslander on Latrobe Terrace, Kathmandu Newa Chhe'n is where Brisbane locals go when they need a taste of Nepalese warmth. This Paddington institution is as inviting as it is intriguing, with an interior bursting with dark wood furnishings, vibrant artwork and a lively hum of conversation. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, whether you’re sitting inside soaking up the atmosphere or unwinding under fairy lights in the courtyard on a balmy night.
Comfort here comes in the form of slow-cooked, spice-laden dishes that transport you straight to the Himalayas. Start with the ever-popular beef momos—delicately steamed dumplings served with a punchy tomato and sesame seed chutney—before diving into the heartier offerings. The tender lamb, simmered with mountain herbs, yogurt and fragrant spices, is a must-try, while those after something more adventurous can opt for goat cooked with pumpkin, garlic, ginger and cumin. But if you're after something truly comforting, the Sherpa Chicken steals the show—succulent chicken slow-cooked in a velvety sauce infused with coriander, lime leaf and a bright hit of lemon.
The Big Mexican Rancho – Gymea, NSW
If it’s bold flavors and a fiesta atmosphere you’re after, The Big Mexican Rancho in Gymea is the place to be. A local institution for over 30 years, this family-run eatery dishes up honest, no-fuss Mexican food that’s as vibrant as its colorful, sombrero-adorned walls. Step inside and you’re greeted with the inviting aroma of sizzling meats, melted cheese and freshly made tortillas—a telltale sign that a feast is on the way.
This is the kind of comfort food that sticks with you. Start with tender salt and pepper squid, served with a dollop of tartar sauce, before moving on to hearty mains like the signature fajitas al Rancho—juicy beef strips grilled to perfection and served sizzling hot with all the trimmings. If you're after pure indulgence, the chicken burrito is a standout, generously smothered in rich sauce and melted cheese, accompanied by rice, sour cream and avocado salad. But for the ultimate indulgence, the Acapulco Chicken is a must—succulent fillets simmered in a decadent white wine, garlic and mushroom cream sauce, served with rice and silky mashed beans.
At Harbour Thai Restaurant – Shellharbour, NSW
Few things are more comforting than enjoying a warm, fragrant Thai meal while gazing out over the water and At Harbour Thai Restaurant delivers exactly that. Nestled at the ocean end of Addison Street in Shellharbour, this breezy yet elegant spot is a sanctuary for those who love their comfort food served with a side of sea breeze. Whether you’re dining indoors in the chic, open-plan space or taking in the fresh air from the wide balcony, there’s a sense of ease that makes every meal here feel like a well-earned indulgence.
The menu leans heavily on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that are equal parts nourishing and indulgent. The special red duck curry is a standout, balancing sweet and savory with lychees, pineapple and cherry tomatoes, while the slow-cooked massaman lamb shank delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience with tender meat, fragrant spices and a sprinkling of fried onions and cashews. But for those craving deep-fried decadence, the Soft-shell Crab Pad Prik Thai Dum is pure comfort—crispy crab wok-tossed with onion, capsicum and shallots, coated in a rich black pepper sauce that packs a punch.
Comfort food is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that warms the soul, feeds the senses, and, most importantly, brings people together. Whether it’s the spice-laden depth of Nepalese curries, the cheesy, sauce-smothered indulgence of Mexican classics, or the rich, fragrant magic of Thai cuisine, these venues prove that true comfort is found in a plate of food made with care. So next time you need a little culinary TLC, you know where to go.
