Australian cuisine reflects the nation’s mix of indigenous traditions, British heritage, and influences from almost every corner of the globe. The food scene in the country is thriving right now, with immigration—particularly from Asian countries—playing a significant role. Top Australian dishes include elements of all these cuisines.
Much like American cuisine, the Aussies have taken all kinds of elements and melded them into a unique gastronomic offering based around their unbeatable fresh ingredients. Whether you’re savoring fresh seafood on the Queensland coast or enjoying a BBQ in the outback, eating is an integral part of the country’s identity.
This latest installment in our national cuisine series is a comprehensive run-through of all the flavors Australia has to offer.
Burgers
Now, the Australians don’t claim to have invented the burger. But with over 28 million head of cattle spread across their vast landscape, they do boast some of the finest beef on the planet. This nation of grilling enthusiasts has taken the hamburger to another level and Aussie establishments now frequently feature on rundowns of the best burger joints around the world.
A couple of nice additions that do find their origins there? A slice of pickled beetroot or a runny fried egg. You also might find some different meats on the menu—how about a kangaroo or crocodile burger?
Make your own with this classic recipe.
Fresh seafood
With more than 85% of Australians living within 50km of the coast, it’s only natural that seafood is a key part of the national menu. From the traditional fish & chips to succulent BBQ prawns, marinated and grilled to perfection, the Australians love seafood.
In fact, with temperatures at their highest around Christmas time, the typical festive roast you may find on a French or English table is often replaced Down Under by a fresh, vibrant seafood platter.
Grill up some shrimp yourself with this recipe.
Meat pie
The meat pie is a classic Aussie dish, beloved for its flaky pastry and savory filling. British settlers brought pies to Australia in the late 18th century and they’re now iconic. They’re typically filled with minced meat and gravy, but nowadays the range of flavors reflect the varied cultural influences in Australia: Thai green curry chicken pie or Greek lamb and feta pie are delicious alternatives.
Pies are a favorite at sports events, bakeries, and supermarkets across the country. The crispy crust and loaded filling make them a quick and hearty meal.
Experience it with this recipe.
Sausage sizzle
Sausage sizzles are a beloved Australian tradition, often found at community events and fundraisers. Simple yet satisfying, it involves grilled snags (sausages) served in bread with onions and a choice of sauces.
Fire up the grill and sizzle your own at home.
Barramundi
Barramundi is abundant in the western part of the Pacific Ocean and has become a hugely popular fish in Australia thanks to its mild flavor and beautifully flaky texture. The name comes from the aboriginal language of an area of Queensland, and it means “large-scaled river fish.”
It’s a staple in coastal regions and is prized for its versatility. It’s often grilled or pan-fried and served with veggies, salad or fries.
Discover the perfect barramundi recipe here.
Chicken Parmigiana (or Parma)
A pub favorite. Chicken Parmigiana makes the list of top Australian dishes despite its origins in the USA. Chicken parm comes from an American-Italian creation, which evolved from the original Italian dish Melanzane alla Parmigiana. It’s a breaded chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, often served with chips and salad. It’s a fusion of Italian and Australian flavors, popular in Victoria and beyond.
Craving it? Check out this recipe.
Lamingtons
Lamingtons are light, fluffy sponge cakes coated in chocolate sauce and rolled in desiccated coconut. The name is thought to come from Lord Lamington, the Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. One theory suggests that a maid of his dropped a sponge cake in melted chocolate. Rather than waste it, he suggested rolling it in coconut so that it wouldn’t be so messy to eat.
These treats are sometimes filled with cream or jam and are a quintessential part of Australian afternoon tea, popular in bakeries throughout Melbourne and Sydney.
Enjoy them with this classic recipe.
ANZAC biscuits
No list of top Australian dishes can skip these treats. ANZAC biscuits have long been associated with the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC, where the biscuits get their name), originally made by families of soldiers as far back as World War I. Nowadays, they’re a popular snack consumed throughout the two nations. They’re a simple mix of oats, flour, coconut, sugar, butter, and golden syrup.
Bake them with this traditional recipe.
Vanilla slice
Another Aussie bakery favorite. The vanilla slice is a delicious dessert made with layers of puff pastry filled with creamy vanilla custard and often topped with a layer of icing. The dessert has its roots in Europe but has evolved in Australia and is now a staple in many Aussie bakeries and cafes.
Indulge with this recipe.
Vegemite on toast
A true Australian icon. Vegemite is a dark, salty spread made from brewer’s yeast extract. Spread thinly on buttered white toasted bread, it’s a breakfast staple that divides opinion but is undeniably Australian.
Not sure a recipe is required for this one, so instead, we’ve got a dose of cuteness for you with this devilish duo fromTasmania—Vegemite & Toast.
Pavlova
Pavlova is a dessert that’s now famous the world over. According to Australians (New Zealand also claims to have invented the dish), the delicious meringue-based dessert was created in a hotel in the city of Perth. It was named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who toured Australia and New Zealand in the 1920s.
A meringue base is made from egg whites and sugar, then topped with whipped cream and a variety of fruits such as kiwi, passionfruit and strawberries. The dessert would never be out of place at an Aussie BBQ or celebration.
Fancy trying it at home? Here’s a recipe.
Other must-try Australian dishes
Here are a few more top Australian dishes:
Kangaroo: The country’s native kangaroo meat is lean and rich, often grilled or made into burgers or sausages.
Tim Tams: Arnott’s Tim Tams are an Australian institution. These indulgent treats have a creamy filling sandwiched between two layers of chocolate-coated biscuit.
Macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts are native to Australia and are known for their rich, buttery flavor and are used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Witchetty grubs: Witchetty grubs are a traditional part of Aboriginal bush tucker. They’re the larvae of the cossid moth, known for their nutty flavor when cooked. Not recommended for the squeamish!
Fairy bread: Fairy bread is a nostalgic children’s party treat, consisting of buttered white bread sprinkled with colorful sugar sprinkles.
Chiko roll: The Chicko roll was inspired by the Chinese spring roll. It’s an Australian snack featuring a filling of beef, barley, cabbage, and carrot, all wrapped in a thick dough and deep-fried.
Exploring Australian cuisine in the USA or Europe
The vast wine regions across Western Australia, or along South Australia’s Barossa Valley, have seen the country become an international wine-producing powerhouse, exporting more than 800 million liters each year.
Beyond their wine, Australian-style burgers are widely available across Europe, and they also stake a contentious claim to the kiwi invention, the flat white coffee.
The story of Australia’s food culture
Australia’s food culture is a blend of indigenous Aboriginal traditions and European influences, particularly British. The country’s multicultural society has further enriched its culinary landscape in recent years, incorporating flavors from nearby Asia and beyond.
Australian cuisine offers something to please any palate, from baking humble damper loaves under the stars in the outback, to enjoying Michelin fine dining in its innovative cities.
More about Australia
Australia’s outdoor lifestyle, beautiful beaches and booming economy hold huge appeal for anyone from holidaymakers to students or expats looking to relocate permanently. If you’re interested in making the move, check out our blog on moving your life Down Under, or find out if you’re eligible for the country’s digital nomad visa.
For sending money to Australia, we’ve got you covered with our piece about the best Aussie banks for non-residents.
FAQs
Famous Australian dishes include meat pies, burgers, pavlova, lamingtons, and chicken parma.
Yes, Australian food is similar to British food due to shared colonial history, but it also incorporates diverse local influences, such as emu or kangaroo meat, resulting in a unique culinary identity.
When attending an Australian dinner, it’s customary to bring a gift such as a bottle of wine, or a bouquet of flowers—and a tub of good ice cream never goes down badly!
The top Australian dishes are famous for fresh ingredients, diverse flavors, and the fusion of traditional and contemporary cooking styles.
