Classic Australian BBQ Restaurants in Cairns: Indulging in Delicious Steaks
During my recent trip to Cairns, I decided to immerse myself fully in the authentic Australian culinary experience. With its laid-back coastal vibe and fresh ingredients, Cairns has a lot to offer when it comes to food, and there was one experience I absolutely couldn’t miss—an Aussie-style BBQ, featuring mouthwatering steaks, tender ribs, and of course, the famous Aussie hospitality.
In this blog, I’ll be sharing some of the best BBQ restaurants I discovered in Cairns, where you can enjoy top-notch steaks and get a true taste of Australia. So, if you’re planning to visit Cairns and you’re a fan of good meat and great atmosphere, read on for my detailed recommendations.
The Charm of Cairns’ BBQ Scene
Cairns, a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, isn’t just a paradise for nature lovers—it’s also a fantastic destination for foodies, especially those who enjoy a good BBQ. Australian BBQ is different from the traditional American version, with an emphasis on high-quality cuts of meat and cooking them over an open flame or on a chargrill.
Steak lovers will be in heaven, as many restaurants in Cairns feature local beef, such as the famous Queensland beef, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. But what makes the experience even better is the laid-back, no-fuss environment that’s so typical of Australian dining.
I was on a mission to find the best spots where you could not only enjoy a steak but truly savor the authentic Australian BBQ experience. These are the restaurants that I discovered, where the food, the atmosphere, and the experience all come together perfectly.
1. The Rattle n Hum
If you’re looking for a classic Aussie pub experience with a BBQ twist, The Rattle n Hum should be at the top of your list. Located right in the heart of Cairns, this pub combines the charm of a traditional Australian watering hole with a fantastic selection of BBQ delights. The atmosphere is always buzzing, with locals and tourists alike enjoying a cold drink and a good meal.
I went for the “Rattle n Hum” signature rib-eye steak, which is a local favorite. The steak was grilled to perfection—just the right amount of char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The flavors were enhanced with a special BBQ sauce made in-house, which gave the steak a rich, smoky kick.
Aside from steaks, the restaurant offers a wide variety of BBQ options, from tender lamb chops to crispy chicken wings. Their sides are also on point, and I highly recommend trying the potato wedges and the garlic bread, which pairs perfectly with a cold beer.
Where to Book: You can easily reserve a table on their website or use platforms like OpenTable or Bookatable to secure your spot. These services are really handy, especially during the busy tourist season when Cairns is packed with visitors.
2. Bushfire Flame Grill
This one is a must-visit if you want an authentic Australian BBQ experience in Cairns. Bushfire Flame Grill offers a unique twist on BBQ, where they serve a selection of meats that are cooked over an open flame, giving each dish a smoky, charred flavor that is nothing short of amazing.
The concept behind Bushfire Flame Grill is simple but brilliant—they offer a grill-your-own style BBQ, where guests are provided with an assortment of raw meats, including steaks, lamb, chicken, and sausages, and you cook them right at your table on a hot, smoky grill. The fun of grilling your own food adds a whole new dimension to the meal, and it’s a great way to enjoy an interactive dining experience.
I opted for a classic Aussie T-bone steak, and it was everything I hoped for—juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. The seasoning was simple but perfect, and the smokiness from the grill elevated the taste. The side salad and the range of sauces offered, from tangy mustard to rich peppercorn, complemented the meat wonderfully.
For dessert, I highly recommend their pavlova, a quintessential Aussie dessert that combines a crispy meringue base with fresh fruits like kiwi and passionfruit.
Where to Book: For reservations, I found that Quandoo was a useful platform to book my table. Their interface is easy to use, and you can also see reviews from other travelers, which helped me pick the right dishes!
3. The Meat House
If you want a more refined BBQ experience, The Meat House is where you need to go. It’s a top-tier steakhouse in Cairns that specializes in high-quality cuts of beef, including Wagyu and dry-aged steaks. As soon as I stepped inside, I could tell this place was different—sleek, modern decor, and a menu that makes you want to try everything.
For my meal, I chose the 300g rib-eye steak, which came beautifully cooked, with a deep char on the outside and an incredibly tender, juicy interior. The steak had a lovely, smoky flavor, and the seasoning was minimal yet effective, letting the quality of the meat shine through. The sides here were also exceptional, with creamy mashed potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables.
One of the standout features of The Meat House is their impressive wine list, which pairs perfectly with their selection of meats. I opted for a Shiraz, which had bold, fruity flavors that complemented the richness of the steak.
The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, making it ideal for a special night out in Cairns.
Where to Book: I used Resy to make a reservation here. It was quick and easy, and I could also see which time slots were available on the app, which was really convenient.
4. Grill’d Cairns
For those looking for a more casual yet satisfying BBQ experience, Grill’d Cairns is an excellent option. This Aussie chain is known for offering a variety of delicious grilled meats and fresh, local ingredients in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. While it’s not as formal as the other places I’ve mentioned, the quality of food here is still top-notch.
I tried the Grill’d “Burgers with a Purpose” menu, which focuses on premium, locally sourced meats. The beef burger was loaded with a perfectly cooked patty, fresh lettuce, crispy bacon, and a tangy BBQ sauce that made each bite heavenly. Their fries are also to die for—crispy, golden, and perfectly salted.
Grill’d is a great spot if you’re looking for a quick but satisfying BBQ meal without the formalities. The laid-back vibe here makes it perfect for a casual evening out with friends.
Where to Book: You can book a table at Grill’d Cairns through their app or directly on their website, where you can also find other locations in Australia if you’re traveling around.
5. Cairns Night Markets BBQ Stalls
If you’re short on time or just looking for something quick but delicious, the Cairns Night Markets are an amazing place to sample BBQ at its finest. These markets offer a variety of food stalls, and some of the best BBQ in Cairns can be found right here. The market is a short walk from the Esplanade, and it’s the perfect spot to grab a quick meal after a day of exploring the city.
I tried a stall that specializes in BBQ skewers and grilled meats. The BBQ lamb skewers were particularly outstanding—tender, juicy, and grilled just right. The smoky aroma wafting from the grill was irresistible, and the flavors were perfectly balanced with a touch of spice.
The night markets also offer other snacks, like sausage rolls, meat pies, and even fresh seafood, so it’s a great place to try a variety of Aussie treats.
Where to Book: No need for reservations here! The Cairns Night Markets are walk-in, and they open daily, so you can easily pop in whenever you’re hungry.
6. Salt House
For those who want a more contemporary dining experience with a view, Salt House is another great choice. Situated right on the waterfront with stunning views of the marina, this restaurant combines modern Australian dining with a relaxed, coastal vibe. The BBQ options at Salt House are particularly impressive, with a selection of meats that are perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor.
I opted for the Salt House mixed grill platter, which was a generous serving of steak, chicken, and sausages, all grilled to perfection. The meat was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, while the sides were fresh and light, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Salt House also has an extensive cocktail menu, and I recommend trying one of their signature drinks to accompany your meal. The mojito was a refreshing choice to balance the richness of the BBQ.
Where to Book: I booked a table using TheFork, which allows you to see live availability and get a feel for the restaurant’s popularity.
7. Ochre Restaurant
For something a little different but still BBQ-focused, Ochre Restaurant offers a fusion of modern Australian cuisine with indigenous ingredients. Located on the Esplanade, this restaurant offers a creative twist on BBQ dishes, incorporating native Australian spices and flavors.
The Ochre BBQ menu offers unique items like kangaroo and crocodile steaks, both of which are cooked expertly and served with a range of flavorful sides. I tried the kangaroo steak, which was surprisingly tender and had a rich, gamey flavor. The spices used in the marinade brought out the natural flavors of the meat, and the accompanying native bush tomato sauce added a delightful touch.
Where to Book: I found booking through OpenTable to be a great option for securing a table at Ochre Restaurant, as it gives you the flexibility to adjust your booking if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Cairns truly offers a range of BBQ experiences that cater to all kinds of tastes. From casual BBQ joints to upscale steakhouses and even night market stalls, the diversity of options allows you to experience the best of Australian BBQ. Each restaurant I visited had its own charm, but all shared one thing in common: the emphasis on quality ingredients, excellent cooking techniques, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a steak enthusiast or a casual BBQ lover, Cairns will not disappoint when it comes to satisfying your craving for delicious grilled meats.
Next time you find yourself in Cairns, don’t miss out on these fantastic BBQ spots—each one is a flavorful journey into the heart of Australian cuisine.
During my recent trip to Cairns, I decided to immerse myself fully in the authentic Australian culinary experience. With its laid-back coastal vibe and fresh ingredients, Cairns has a lot to offer when it comes to food, and there was one experience I absolutely couldn’t miss—an Aussie-style BBQ, featuring mouthwatering steaks, tender ribs, and of…