When we think of the Northern Territory, fine dining doesn’t always come to mind – but did you know Darwin is the only city in the country to have two Chef-Hatted restaurants operating out of one kitchen?
Here are five CH-awarded venues you need to put on your radar for your next NT adventure:
Located in the historic grounds of Admiralty House overlooking Darwin Harbour, Char Restaurant (12) on The Esplanade is a must-dine Territory destination. A go-to for locals and visitors alike looking for a special night out, the refurbished glass-fronted steakhouse with a courtyard, offers select grilled meats and Modern Australian dishes.
Along with The Darwin Club (13), Char is one of only two Chef-hatted restaurants to operate out of one kitchen and delights guests with not only stunning views but the best steak in the city – think offerings like Wagyu rump, topped with grilled Tiger prawns and sides of mash and seasonal greens.
Located in a stunning position on The Esplanade overlooking the leafy grounds of Admiralty House, The Darwin Club is opening the culinary horizons of guests. The venue has an atmosphere of relaxed elegance, perpetuating its legacy as the oldest club in Darwin - the wooden floors, high ceilings, velvet seats and yesteryear photographs will swoop you through the ages to the 1930s.
Start your NT dining experience with twice-cooked BBQ whole squid, nduja, spinach, pine nuts, ajo blanco and pink peppercorns, before roast duck breast, foie gras, beets, chestnut puree, cocoa nib sable, duck scratchings and Cabernet vinegar reduction.
Food enthusiasts looking for an exceptional and sophisticated dining experience head to award-winning PepperBerry restaurant on Mitchell Street in Darwin. Located in the Hilton Darwin, PepperBerry (12) oozes a touch of class with blond wood, marble tiles, banquette seating and statement pendents, ideal for lingering over a memorable meal with family and friends.
Taste the NT with starters like kangaroo fillet, quandong and star anise spiced beetroot purée and braised pineapple chutney, moving on to 18-hour slow-braised beef cheek, wattle seed spiced mash, tomato ragu and roasted sweet onion.
Pee Wee’s at the Point (12) on Alec Fong Lim Drive in Fannie Bay is the ideal place to wine, dine and relax all year round in Darwin. Chill out in the lounge with a delicious cocktail, selected wine and a unique small plates and platter menu, or dine alfresco and take in the stunning waterfront location.
A great starting point for your meal is crocodile la lot – betel leaf, seared crocodile mince, chilli, ginger, coconut and peanuts; followed by wild-caught saltwater barramundi fillet, lemongrass, sweet potato rosti, coconut lime sauce and ginger salad.
Those venturing further into the outback can delight the senses with an unforgettable meal at Tali Wiru (14) on Yulara Drive in Yulara. This is so much more than a dining experience; it’s a moment in time to be remembered forever as you sit at intimate tables for two in a unique outback setting on a private dune with champagne and canapés at sunset.
A didgeridoo performance and four-course dinner with premium Australian wine await, along with indigenous storytelling sharing the culture, history and spirituality of the land.
