Finding somewhere delicious to eat with a buzzing atmosphere and excellent service is not a difficult task in Byron Bay. Our ever-growing town is a full-blown foodie destination with an abundance of local gems; the most challenging part is choosing where to eat!
Picking four favourites is just the tip of the iceberg on what is on offer in this magical pocket of New South Wales, but it is an excellent place to start. Getting ahead of the crowds and making reservations before your visit will save any disappointment and build a dreamy dining itinerary for you to enjoy!
If you haven't been able to make it to the Greek Islands yet, Kouzina is a delightful substitute, offering an authentic dive into traditional cuisine and family-style dining. Located in the Industrial & Arts Estate, a taverna-esque building exudes all the European holiday vibes, making it the ideal spot to share calamari skewers and enjoy the sunshine. Their romantic leafy courtyard is a lovely escape from the midday sun where you can cool off with tasty appetisers from the bbq and sip on your white wine spritzers.
Kouzina’s ethos is generosity, providing a humble place for everyone to gather and relish in each other's company. Be transported with their white wash walls, checkered tablecloths and warm, welcoming atmosphere. If a celebration is on the table, a customary dance and plate smashing will accompany your meal and wholesome cultural experience.
Moonlight was one of the latest restaurants to pop up last year. A creation from the same team behind Lightyears, this hibachi grill and wine bar presents an intimate and tasty menu full of small sharing plates for the ultimate Japanese cuisine. The monochrome interior and elegant contemporary finishes give it a sophisticated energy with a relaxed edge, watch the preparation of your dishes at the bar or enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail on the outdoor patio on a balmy evening.
Its central location makes it the perfect dinner spot before hitting the town. Charred baby octopus, Hokkaido scallops and wagyu beef tataki are a few of their tempting dishes designed to be shared for a light but satisfying meal. Finish up with their miso and vanilla pannacotta, chefs kiss.
You Beauty is another new and exciting location to pay a visit to when in Bangalow. A short drive from Byron, this corner bar and dining location is born from the imagination and expertise of Luke Sullivan and Matt Rabbidge. Their rich knowledge in the hospitality domain shines through, and with a menu curated by Chef Matt Stone, you know it will be exceptional.
Their all-day menu is a mix of raw nibbles and imaginative creations to experiment in, relish the anchovy toast, house salumi and picture perfect creme brulee or opt for the BBQ prawns with the fried quail, a real highlight. The mix of nostalgic but refined dishes is matched with an array of natural and biodynamic wines, designed with a retro-inspired fit-out packed with character and a chronicle of Australia that feels handsomely familiar.
If Italian is what you are craving, we strongly recommend a booking at De Vino; this is practically a Byron Bay institution. Since opening in 2018, this rustic but trendy space has focused on developing traditional aperitivo, antipasti and indulgent plates of pasta that will rival your Nonna’s. Chef Lucio Grassi demonstrates the quality and pedigree of local produce merged with his classic Italian recipes and cooking techniques that have stood the test of time. Order the saffron arancini, creamy burrata or eggplant bruschetta and wash down with a quintessential summer spritz under the soft, subtle lighting. Buon appetito!