Comfort food isn’t just about calories—it’s about connection. It’s the scent of something simmering that reminds you of home, the slow-cooked richness of a dish made with love or the fiery spice that wakes your tastebuds and your spirit. These restaurants serve more than meals—they serve moments. Whether you’re craving a bowl of brothy noodles, a perfectly charred pizza or spice-laden street food, this is your guide to dining that truly feeds the soul.
Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzeria – Balwyn, VIC
Tucked into the leafy heart of Balwyn, Augello’s Ristorante & Pizzeria dishes up modern Italian fare in moody, elegant surrounds. Velvet banquettes, sleek black subway tiles and a specials wall lend a contemporary edge, while the extensive menu reads like a love letter to Italy. This is a local gem for those who take their pasta seriously and their wine by the glass.
From the very first bite, it’s clear Augello’s is about generous, flavour-packed plates with finesse. Their signature fettuccine with prawns, crab, lemon juice and chilli sings with freshness, while risotto with crispy duck, wild mushrooms and goat’s cheese delivers rich, earthy depth. The pizza menu pulls no punches—try the hot smoked salmon on a dill and Parmesan base, layered with salsa verde, onion jam, capers and salmon caviar. It’s bold, indulgent and utterly comforting.
Kopitalk Malaysian Restaurant and Function – Surfers Paradise, QLD
In the vibrant heart of Surfers Paradise, Kopitalk brings a taste of Malaysia’s hawker culture into a breezy, coastal setting. What began as a humble café now buzzes with the energy of a bustling dining space, filled with polished wood accents, greenery and the aromas of spices wafting from the kitchen.
Expect authentic, soul-satisfying fare that hits all the right notes—from kaya toast with coconut custard for breakfast to the generous nasi lemak served with deep-fried lamb shoulder, coconut rice, sambal and all the trimmings. For something special, the nasi goreng wrapped in banana leaf with grilled barramundi is a showstopper, bursting with heat, flavour and fragrant tradition. This is comfort food with a passport stamp.
Pho Oak Park is a quiet achiever tucked into the northern suburbs, offering the kind of pho that keeps people coming back with chopsticks in hand. The space is warm and inviting, with glowing paper lanterns, wood finishes and soft Vietnamese art giving it a homey, understated charm.
The menu is a greatest hits of Vietnamese classics, but the heart and soul lie in the broth. The rare beef and brisket pho is deeply aromatic and soul-warming, perfect on a chilly evening or any day that calls for a little extra comfort. Beyond the soup, there’s a solid lineup of stir-fries, including chicken with Chinese broccoli and oyster sauce or seafood in lemongrass chilli sauce. It’s casual, consistent and quietly exceptional.
Ling Ling Thai brings a burst of Bangkok energy to Dubbo, serving vibrant Thai dishes in playful, personality-filled surrounds. Gold accents, monkey-themed artwork and moody lighting create a festive yet cosy atmosphere ideal for relaxed family dinners or casual celebrations.
Start with crispy spring rolls or salt and pepper squid before diving into crowd favourites like Paradise seafood stir-fry with prawns, calamari and Thai herbs in a spicy sauce. For those seeking a deeper spice hit, the Pik Khing pork belly—stir-fried with green beans and a punchy curry paste—offers bold, savoury warmth in every bite. It’s the kind of dish you’ll crave long after the last spoonful of coconut rice is gone.
Located in a bustling shopping precinct, Chatkazz is where street food meets comfort food—Indian-style. Vibrant and aromatic, the venue buzzes with energy and the hum of spice-filled kitchens. The menu is vast, unapologetically authentic and packed with vegetarian and vegan-friendly delights.
From savoury chickpea cakes with chutney to roadside-style vada pav (spicy fried potato balls in hot buttered rolls topped with cheese), this is a flavour-packed experience that transports diners straight to the streets of Mumbai. Don’t miss the paneer butter masala, rich with tomato and spice, paired with garlic and cheese naan. Or for something quirky, try the tandoori pizza with its fusion of smoky, cheesy decadence and Indian flair.
Soul food doesn’t have to be slow-cooked by your grandmother—it’s being reimagined every day in kitchens around the country by Chefs with a passion for heritage, hospitality and flavour. These restaurants serve dishes that comfort, delight and connect us to something deeper. Whether you find your comfort in spice, broth, curry or carbs, one thing is certain: these meals are made to be felt as much as they’re tasted.
