The food scene has never been more conscious. With sustainability at the forefront, diners are looking for more than just great flavours - they want ethically sourced ingredients, minimal waste and a connection to the land. Across the country, these five venues are leading the charge, proving that responsible dining can be just as indulgent as it is eco-friendly.
Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of Coolangatta, O-Sushi is a haven for those craving fresh, organic Japanese cuisine. This Gold Coast staple is all about mindful eating, with a commitment to MSG-free dishes, locally sourced produce and housemade sauces. Whether you're perched at the sushi train or settling in for an izakaya-style feast, expect an inviting atmosphere that blends beachside relaxation with Tokyo cool.
The menu is packed with flavourful, innovative dishes that elevate traditional Japanese fare. The salmon wonton tacos are a must-try - delicately crisp parcels filled with melt-in-your-mouth salmon and zesty toppings. For a fusion twist, the cheeseburger gyoza is an unexpected delight, while the seared salmon nigiri platter showcases the pristine quality of the seafood. Pair it with a whisky from the extensive bar for the ultimate experience.
Tahbilk Estate Restaurant – Nagambie, Vic
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Tahbilk billabong, this estate restaurant embodies sustainable dining with elegance. Before settling in for a meal, guests can wander the vineyard, explore the underground cellar or stroll through the surrounding wetlands. The commitment to local produce is evident in every dish, with Head Chef Jonathon Mackeson curating a menu that highlights the best of regional Victoria, expertly paired with Tahbilk’s estate-grown wines.
A standout on the menu is the char-grilled lamb backstrap, served with pumpkin purée, lentils, pomegranate, salsa verde and a muscat reduction. The balance of smoky, sweet and tangy flavours is a masterclass in Modern Australian cuisine. For something indulgent yet refined, the eye fillet steak with fries, salad and red wine sauce is a timeless classic, allowing the quality of the locally sourced beef to shine.
Glasshouse Restaurant at Goonoo Goonoo Station – Tamworth, NSW
Housed within a striking glass-fronted building amid the rolling hills of Tamworth, the Glasshouse Restaurant seamlessly fuses history with contemporary design. The venue sits between two repurposed heritage structures, providing a sleek yet rustic setting that perfectly complements its seasonal, locally driven menu. With sweeping views of the Liverpool Range and a focus on fresh, regional produce, this is dining with a sense of place.
The dry-aged kingfish sashimi is a stunning opener, dressed with avocado, ponzu and citrus cells for a bright, clean flavour profile. Mains are just as impressive - the New England chicken showcases both poached breast and crisp confit thigh, served with tandoori spices and spinach. For a heartier option, the pan-seared barramundi arrives with lemon Hollandaise, grilled zucchini, pickled radish and sumac onions, making sustainability taste as luxurious as ever.
Vegan food doesn’t have to be an afterthought and Oh My Days in Glebe proves it with a plant-based bakery that delivers on both taste and texture. This charming café serves up organic, house-baked delights in a setting filled with rustic timber, leafy greenery and artistic murals. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee and croissant or a heartier meal, this spot makes sustainability feel like second nature.
The croissant toasties are a signature and for good reason - the BLAT (bacon, lettuce, avocado, tomato and mayonnaise) version is a standout, with buttery layers that defy the fact that it’s vegan. For something more substantial, the maple miso grilled cabbage bowl is a flavour bomb, packed with Brussels sprouts, mint, grilled tempeh, roasted chickpeas and miso cashew cream. It’s proof that plant-based eating can be just as rich and satisfying as its meaty counterparts.
Common People Brewing Co – Bangalow, NSW
Sustainability and craft beer go hand in hand at Common People Brewing Co, a laid-back brewery in the heart of Bangalow. With a community-first ethos, this spot serves up fresh, locally brewed beers alongside a menu that’s all about quality ingredients and minimal waste. Whether you’re sampling the Villager’s Pale Ale or sipping an El Sabro Hazy IPA, there’s no shortage of expertly crafted options to enjoy.
When it comes to food, the wood-fired pizza steals the show. Think ham and mushroom on a white base with mozzarella and parsley, cooked to crispy, golden perfection. If pizza isn’t your thing, the Italian-style beef burger - stacked with lettuce, tomato, pecorino, pickled onion, mayo and bread - delivers big, bold flavours. For a shareable option, the Sicilian mixed vegetables in tomato sugo with focaccia slices brings rustic, Mediterranean warmth to the table.
Sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour - it’s about celebrating ingredients at their best while respecting the planet. Whether it’s sushi by the sea, estate-grown feasts, farm-to-table fine dining or plant-based pastries, these venues are leading the way in responsible yet delicious dining. So next time you’re craving something indulgent, why not make it sustainable too?
