Townsville Food and Wine

Townsville dining reflects the laid-back lifestyle in this part of Australia.

Al fresco dining is extremely popular here and the locals can often be seen enjoying a lazy breakfast in one of Townsville's many sidewalk cafés. The Townsville Strand is particularly popular now with its casual outdoor dining being amongst its many attractions.

Townsville's restaurant precinct on Palmer Street is a great example of cosmopolitan living with distinctive North Queensland charm. The once rundown wharf district has been rejuvenated, its charming old buildings now housing fashionable pubs and restaurants. It is in this street you will find one of the city's finest eateries, the multi award winning Michel's café.

For something a little different and distinctly Australian, head to Magnetic Island, Nelly Bay. This is the embarkation point for Providence cruises. This gorgeous old schooner hosts up to 24 guests for a sumptuous picnic lunch cruise around the island. Evening barbeque and sunset options are also available for the romantic at heart.

Now those of you who like to party until the break of dawn will enjoy the delights of the Flinders Street entertainment district. Housed in some of Townsville's finest old stone buildings, you'll find a number of pubs and clubs that open until the wee hours. Be warned though, they can be a bit rowdy at times.

A visit to Townsville in Australia's tropical north wouldn't be complete without sampling some of the local fare. Every Sunday morning, the Flinders Street Mall plays host to the Cotters market where you can find exotic, tropical fruits, old-fashioned country baking and exotic gourmet delights.