7 Best Restaurants in Alice Springs, Red Centre

Beginning his journey in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and becoming one of Australia’s most respected experts in Asian flavors, chef Jimmy Shu has assembled teams of traditionally trained chefs who combine their cooking secrets with his contemporary take on Asian cuisine. Hanuman has been a favorite with locals and visitors for three decades.

Barramundi is the name of the game at this venerable and popular restaurant on the banks of the dry Todd River, part of the Mercure Alice Springs Resort. The beer-battered "barra" is a drawcard here, but there's also a wide range of authentic curries to try. Inside is air conditioned but most want to grab a waterfront outdoor table for the views.

This inviting café is set within the grounds of the 16-hectare haven, Olive Pink Botanic Garden. The menu is filled with plenty of vegan options, with vegan breakfast, veggie bowls, and a vegan burger. Enjoy breakfast or lunch in the outdoor garden seating, surrounded by beautiful flora. You could get lucky and spot a passing wallaby.

Cowhide seats, tables made from old Ghan railway benches, and a life-size replica of bushranger Ned Kelly give this lively restaurant true Outback flavor. It's a touristy watering hole but well worth dropping by for a drink or two and taking a few snaps of the Aussie decor.

Red-and-white checkered tablecloths, Chianti bottles, and plastic grapes festoon this family-run Alice Springs classic spot that continues to draw in locals with traditional Italian meat dishes, pizza, and pasta. Take a tip from the regulars and preorder a serving of vanilla slice for dessert, or you might miss out on this scrumptious cake of layered papery pastry and custard cream.

Transforming from a casual eatery as the sun goes town, this laneway eatery offers tapas-style meals, live music, and a lengthy wine and cocktail list. The ambience is relaxed and welcoming.

Bursting with charisma, this trendy laneway café has a slight hippie edge. It has all the feels of a Melbourne coffeehouse. And the coffee is deemed the best in Alice Springs. The menu here is focused firmly on fresh and healthy eats to grab and go.