Tucked away in a coastal paradise, Byron Bay is Australia’s own mecca for food lovers. With its diverse range of restaurants in Byron Bay, this vibrant coastal town has something to offer for everyone’s culinary desires. From vegan eateries to fine-dining experiences, this guide will provide readers with an overview of the best restaurants in Byron Bay. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a casual lunch, or breakfast, this article will help you discover the best places to eat and drink in the heart of the Northern Rivers. With a unique combination of exquisite seafood, locally grown produce and international flavours, Byron Bay is guaranteed to provide a truly memorable dining experience.
But with so many amazing-looking restaurants in Byron Bay, it can be overwhelming to choose which establishments to try. So with that said, this blog post will help narrow down which restaurants to check out during your stay in Byron Bay and which ones to skip.
Having lived in Byron for two years, I have tried almost every restaurant in town, and I have some local trips and insights to share. In this post, I take you from breakfast to dinner and everything in between. I’ve even included some cheeky cocktail locations and wicked patios to keep the vacation vibes flowing. Additionally, I have created posts on the Best Byron Bay Cafes and a Travel Guide to Byron Bay (coming soon) that will help you fully map out your travel plans. But without further ado, here are the top eating and drinking experiences in Byron Bay. Bon Appétit!
Where to Stay in Byron Bay?
Before we jump into these 15 eateries, let’s discuss where to stay when visiting Byron Bay. In Byron Bay, accommodations embody the eclectic and laid-back vibe that characterizes the town itself. From bohemian-inspired beachside bungalows to upscale boutique hotels, the options cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the relaxed coastal lifestyle by opting for beachfront cottages or eco-friendly lodges nestled amidst lush rainforest settings.
For those seeking a social atmosphere, backpacker hostels and communal guesthouses provide opportunities to connect with fellow travellers and partake in group activities. Additionally, boutique hotels and luxury resorts offer indulgent amenities and personalized service, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in this idyllic seaside town. With accommodations that reflect the unique charm and ambiance of Byron Bay, visitors can truly experience the essence of coastal living during their stay.
Here are some places where I have personally stayed, and others where friends or family stayed and recommend.
Luxury Accommodation in Byron Bay
- Elements of Byron – Beside the beach, incredible pool, and beside the trendy industrial area.
- Crystalbrook Byron – The original luxury hotel in Byron. Surrounded by a rainforest, but outside of town.
- The CAPE at Wategos – Located near our favourite beach in Byron, Wategos. However, it is about a 20-minute uphill walk to town if you don’t have a car.
- Waves Byron Bay – Right across the street from Main Beach, and some rooms have ocean views.
Boutique Stays in Byron Bay
- The Bower Byron Bay – Trendy modern decor with a pool. Beside a great cafe (The General Store), and walking distance to town.
- Atlantic Byron Bay -In the center of town, great pool, and laid-back decor that reflects the Byron vibe.
- The Lord Byron – In town, close to all the restaurants and shops. About a 15-minute walk to the beach. Also has a pool.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options in Byron Bay
- Wake Up! Byron Bay – awesome pool, across from the beach, and free bikes to ride into town.
- The Surf House – Great location in town, private rooms with common areas that create a social vibe to make friends.
- YHA Byron Bay – the first place I ever stayed in Byron. Good vibe hostel in the center of town.
Breakfast or Brunch Restaurants in Byron Bay
Are you seeking the perfect start to your day in Byron Bay? From healthy options to indulgent treats, these restaurants and cafes have it all. For coffee addicts and foodies alike, these spots will provide a satisfying experience. So, join us as we take a journey through the best Byron Bay breakfast or brunch restaurants that are guaranteed to make your morning shine.
If you are looking for more relaxed cafes or breakfast options, be sure to read my Best Byron Bay Cafes You Need to Try. Otherwise, here are three great breakfast restaurants in Byron Bay.
1. Bayleaf for Brunch
Bayleaf is one of the most popular places for brunch, which can cause a bit of a wait on weekends. But I promise it’s worth it. Its saving grace is that there are some great surrounding boutiques, so you can always have a cheeky browse while you wait! Or, to beat the line entirely, go on weekdays rather than weekends. And if you are a group of 8 or more people, you can book ahead.
My favourites at Bayleaf are the chai latte, coconut cold brew coffee and scrambled special!
2. Top Shop
Top Shop is a local favourite for its laid-back atmosphere and mouth-watering breakfast options. The cafe offers outdoor seating, providing the perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying your morning coffee. On the weekend, it’s common to see friends and families sprawled out on the front lawn soaking up the sun and enjoying coffee and breakfast.
Try their famous bacon and egg roll or the vegetarian option, which consists of grilled mushrooms, spinach, and halloumi cheese. Their fresh-pressed juices are also great!
3. Barrio
Barrio is located out at the Industrial Estate at the Habitat complex, which is another trendy area outside of town. If you head out here for brunch, save some time to shop around, as there are a few lovely boutique shops. But back to why we are really here – the food! Barrio serves up delicious coffee and a nice selection of breakfast options for both sweet and savoury lovers. Personally, I was a big fan of their breakfast bowl and crispy potato and bacon omelette.
As for lunch, Barrio always has a selection of freshly made sandwiches and salads you can pick from at their front counter, or you can choose something á la carte. Barrio serves breakfast until 11 am and then switches over to the lunch menu until 3pm. Some nights they have dinner too, but check their website for details.
Lunch or Dinner Restaurants in Byron Bay
From vibrant cafes and casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Byron Bay’s lunch and dinner restaurants provide a range of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. In this section, I’ll share the best venues to enjoy a lazy lunch or unforgettable dinner in Byron Bay. Find out which eateries have made the cut and get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey into the heart of one of Australia’s top culinary hotspots.
4. Sunday Sustainable Bakery
The Sunday Sustainable Bakery in the centre of town is famous for its freshly baked pies and sausage rolls. I personally think their sausage rolls are the best in Byron Bay; however, my mother-in-law reckons the best sausage rolls are at the Corner St Bakery. It’s a hot debate in the family! If you try both, be sure to let me know which ones you think are better.
Otherwise, they serve up a mean coffee and have refreshing house-made ice teas. My favourite is their turmeric honey elixir.
In case you were curious, they are open every day. Not just Sunday. But it is helpful to know that they are open later than most cafes (until about 5 pm) but are not open for dinner.
5. Visit the Famous Farm for Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
If you’re looking for a true farm-to-table experience, The Farm is the place to go. The Farm’s focus on locally sourced, organic produce means that its menu changes daily and is always deliciously fresh. Located just a few minutes away from the town, The Farm offers a unique experience which combines a restaurant, a farm, and a bakery all in one.
This fully-functioning Farm is famous for its connection to Sydney’s Three Blue Ducks restaurant. They source all their food from its location – vegetables, farm animals, flowers, macadamia trees, it’s all here for you to see and taste for yourself.
One thing that a lot of people don’t know is The Farm offers an incredible alfresco roast dinner every Sunday. You have to reserve in advance, but it includes 3-courses and a beverage for $49 per person. I highly recommend it!
Tip: The farm is a real hit with kids, so if you are travelling as a family, be sure to stop by for a visit. You don’t need to eat at the restaurant to visit the Farm. Alternatively you can just grab a coffee, pastry at the bakery or an cold treat from ice cream stand.
Otherwise, the setting is stunning, with lush greenery and farm animals all around. You can even take a guided tour of the farm, which includes a visit to the pigs, cows, and vegetable garden. Whether you’re looking for a charming spot for brunch, an educational tour of a farm, or a unique dining experience, The Farm has something for everyone. So, grab your friends or family and head on over to The Farm for an unforgettable breakfast experience in Byron Bay.
6. Jonsons Restaurant Bar
Searching for that friendly neighbourhood restaurant you go to where you know the owners and the food is always delicious? Well, that’s the Jonson for us! Jonsons Restaurant in Byron Bay has a relaxed atmosphere and delicious food. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including seafood, pasta, burgers, salads, and vegetarian options. The restaurant also offers an incredible wine list. Ask Jeff (the owner with his wife Sharee) if you need a recommendation. He never steers us wrong!
The decor is stylish and modern, which suits the Byron Bay location. Overall, Johnson’s is a great choice for a casual meal or a fun night out with friends.
Local Tip: Tuesday night is pasta night, where they offer two pasta options for $18 a plate. They also do an incredible seafood Sunday platter (see below).
7. Beach Restaurant – The Best Views in Byron
Without a doubt, Beach Restaurant has the absolute best views in Byron Bay. I recommend going for a long lunch so you can enjoy the front-row seats to Clarks Beach during daylight. From here, you can watch surfers ride the waves at the famous Pass. Most guests choose to go for sunset, which is also nice, but then half of your meal is spent in the dark versus admiring this stunning view!
Whenever someone has a birthday or we have our family visit, we go to the Beach Restaurant. Here you will always find fresh seafood, daily specials, and handcrafted cocktails that never disappoint. The last time we ate here, we all raved about the burrata with figs, Morton bay bug (tastes similar to a lobster), and the spanner crab pappardelle. Everything was fresh, beautifully presented and delicious.
Even though this dining experience is a bit on the pricey side, the service is always outstanding, and we’ve never left hungry or disappointed. In other words, it’s a hundred percent worth the price tag!
Tip: If this is your one and only time coming here I recommend making a reservation for this restaurant and request a front table closest to the ocean. However, they have a new $100 deposit per person which we aren’t a fan of. So the last time we went we walked-in and still got an amazing table! But we took the risk because we can enjoy this restaurant anytime.
8. Raes at Wategos
Raes at Wategos is a stylish and upscale restaurant located in Byron Bay, Australia. The restaurant offers a stunning oceanfront view and a menu featuring fresh seafood and local produce. With its elegant decor and attentive service, Raes at Wategos is a great choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Fun Fact – I once saw Liam Hemsworth here! This just proves this restaurant is made for the rich and famous.
Most people recommend Raes at Wategos, and while the decor and location are unique, we’ve found the food, service, view and prices to be way better at Beach Restaurant. But that is just my opinion. So if you have the time and money, try them both yourself and let me know what you think! Make sure to share your thoughts in the comments below.
Tip: If you want to try Raes on a budget, stop by for a drink and snack at their outdoor patio.
9. Delight Your Taste Buds at Bang Bangs
Looking for the perfect place for a fun girls’ night out or a spicy date night? Head to Bang Bangs. Famous for its incredible Asian fusion food, this dim-lit restaurant always has a cruisy vibe. I highly recommend their Moreton Bay Bug Bun (similar to a Lobster roll), Kingfisher Sashimi, Pad Suew, and the Braised Beef Massaman Curry. Their cocktails are also fantastic!
Local Tip: On Friday & Saturday evenings they typically have a DJ spinning!
10. Light Years
Another great Asian fusion restaurant in Byron Bay is Light Years. It has become so popular over the years that it outgrew its old location on Bay Lane and has now moved to a stunning new (and larger) location by Spell’s boutique.
When you dine here, the duck pancakes are always a must and great for sharing! We also love the miso caramel eggplant, pork belly and prawn toast donut.
11. Indulge in Italian Cuisine at Il Buco
Nothing comforts me more than a good pizza, which is why Il Buco Cafe & Pizzeria in Byron Bay is one of my faves!
Il Buco is the perfect place to relax with friends and family or even to savour a pie for two, thanks to its warm and inviting atmosphere and patio. Their menu also includes a variety of specialty salads and appetizers, hand-crafted sandwiches, and homemade pasta. Il Buco is the closest thing you will find to traditional Italian pizza and dishes in Byron Bay, which is why it became a go-to spot for us.
One time my husband and I went in and just shared the antipasto board (see photo below) with Tiramisu for dessert, which was outstanding! The rich Italian flavours made it the perfect meal to share.
Drinks & Patios in Byron Bay
It’s been said that the best conversations and memories happen over drinks, and there’s no better place to enjoy that experience than with a cold beverage and your closest friends in the sun-kissed paradise of Byron Bay. Whether you’re looking to relax with a cold brew or want to spice up your night with a round of expertly-mixed cocktails, this next section will provide a few of the best patios and restaurants in Byron Bay to go for drinks.
12. Treehouse
The Treehouse Restaurant, located off of Belongil Beach, is the definition of chill. Sit in this open-air restaurant and hear the ruffle of the palm trees and waves crashing along the shore. Their wood oven pizzas are always a hit, as are their calamari and burrata. After a frosty drink and a good meal hit the beach for a swim or watch the sunset!
Tip: The Treehouse is super family friendly for those travelling with kids, and they also have live music every Wednesday to Sunday. See their website for more details.
13. The Balcony for Happy Hour
Looking for the best happy hour in Byron? Located in the centre of town, The Balcony is the place to go! I love their espresso martinis and half-price oysters on Wednesdays from 5:00-6:00 pm. The vibe here is always upbeat, and their wrap-around patio (or Balcony, as they call it) is perfect for people-watching.
14. Stone and Wood Brewery
Stone & Wood Brewery in Byron Bay is an independent craft beer brewery that has become a destination for beer lovers with its distinctive beers and welcoming atmosphere. What started as a small craft brewery in Byron Bay has now become so popular that you can find their beers all across Australia. Their cult-favourite Pacific Ale has become my go-to beer whenever we are in Australia. You have to try it!
The brewery has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with a spacious patio where visitors can enjoy their beers while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
They also offer tours of the brewery, allowing visitors to learn about the brewing process and sample some of their delicious beers. Overall, Stone and Wood Brewery is a must-visit destination for any beer enthusiast, and its selection of beers is guaranteed to please even the most discerning beer drinkers. Plus, they have other beverage options, including kombucha and seltzers for those that are looking for something other than beer.
15. Roadhouse for Happy Hour & Special Events
Roadhouse Restaurant in Byron Bay is a popular spot known for its delicious and locally sourced food. The restaurant has a relaxed and casual vibe with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The menu features a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, and the cocktails are also a hit among guests. Overall, Roadhouse is a great choice for those looking for a tasty and laid-back dining experience in Byron Bay.
Tip: Roadhouse has happy hour cocktail specials every Wednesday-Sunday from 5-6 pm.
Additionally, if you love a unique night out, Roadhouse is famous for hosting special events year-round. Comedy night, live music, and even a weekly pop-up food truck night every Monday. Check their website for more details on what is on during your visit.
Conclusion: The Best Restaurants in Byron Bay
That concludes my list of the 15 best restaurants in Byron Bay. As you can see, there are so many great places to eat and drink. But after dining at almost all of them, I can confirm these are the best in terms of service, atmosphere, and of course, food! I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
However, if you noticed that there aren’t many cafes shared on this post, that is because I wrote a separate blog entirely about my favourite cafes here. Be sure to check it out as well as my Byron Bay Travel Guide, before your next visit!
Have I missed anywhere? Please share your favourite restaurants in Byron Bay in the comments below!
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