20+ Amazing Restaurants in Townsville

Looking for the best places to eat in Townsville, North Queensland? You’re in luck!

Whether you’re craving an elegant waterfront dinner, a beachside brunch, or just a delicious plate of dumplings, Townsville’s dining scene has got you covered. From local institutions to chef-hatted newcomers, here are the top restaurants in Townsville that locals love and visitors rave about.

Hot tip: It never hurts to book ahead when eating out in Townsville, especially for dinner at the more fine-dining restaurants.

Accommodation in Townsville

Here are my top picks for where to stay in Townsville if visiting:

• Budget: The latest addition to the Townsville backpackers scene is The Pier Pods. What was once a restaurant over the water opposite the ferry terminal is now dormitory accommodation. The rooms look stylish, and you’re within walking distance to the CBD and The Strand.
• Mid-range: I recently stayed at Rambutan Resort, and I’d stay there again. Guests can enjoy the rooftop pool, and you can order food straight to your room from either the rooftop restaurant or the streetfront cafe.
• Luxury: With unparalleled ocean views, onsite restaurants and bars, and the infinity pool of your dreams, Ardo is the perfect luxury Townsville hotel.

Best Restaurants in Townsville

1. Frank’s Pizza Napoli

When it comes to real Italian restaurants in Townsville, Frank’s Pizza Napoli tops the list. This local institution has served authentic, home-style Italian fare for over 40 years from the same tiny hole-in-the-wall, cash-only spot. As the city’s only traditional trattoria, Frank’s delivers big flavours and even bigger portions—think handmade pasta and a chicken parmigiana bigger than your head!

Bonus restaurant: Shop Six Pasta Bar is tucked next to Juliette’s on The Strand. Their philosophy? A modern twist on the Italian classics, using fresh local produce and handmade pasta. Simple, authentic, and seriously satisfying.

2. The Beach Hotel

The relatively new kid on the block, The Beach Hotel quickly earned its spot on this list. I visited a couple of months ago and was impressed. First, the view over The Strand and Magnetic Island is hard to beat. Secondly, they run weekday specials from Monday to Thursday. I went on a Wednesday for their $15 burger deal and can confirm the honey chicken chipotle burger tastes just as good as it sounds. Bonus points for the coffee and gelato kiosk downstairs, which are perfect for a sweet treat or caffeine fix by the beach.

Bonus restaurant: For a similar dining experience, head further along The Strand to The Watermark Townsville. It’s another beachfront favourite that pairs great views with a delicious meal. They also run weekly specials, including a $20 beer and burger combo on Mondays and $19 pizzas on Thursdays.

3. A Touch of Salt

Fun fact: I used to live above A Touch of Salt! But down below, you’ll find a stylish, modern Australian fine-dining restaurant by the Ross River, known for creative dishes like smoked kangaroo dumplings, duck ramen, and seared octopus.

4. JAM

Across the river from A Touch of Salt is JAM, a staple of Palmer Street’s dining scene for over 14 years. (I’m old enough to remember visiting when it first opened!). With multiple Chef’s Hats under its belt, JAM delivers elevated modern Australian cuisine. Whether you’re popping in for lunch or dinner, expect top-tier dishes like slow-braised Wagyu beef lasagne and fresh-caught Townsville prawns. They also offer a shared dining experience for two, perfect for a romantic date night.

5. Grandma’s

Grandma’s brought some serious flavour to The Strand when it opened, and it quickly became a firm favourite of mine. I’ve popped in for both breakfast and lunch, and it never disappoints. Two standout menu items keep people returning: Grandma’s Famous Pancakes (I’m loyal to the cocoa version) and the All-Day Shakshukas, where you can pick one flavour or mix and match. I’m all about the spinach and feta or the beef bolognese options. If you haven’t already, pull up a seat in the cosy dining room and see what all the fuss is about.

6. Bridgewater

Bridgewater shares a similar upscale, modern Australian vibe to JAM and A Touch of Salt. Fittingly, it’s the brainchild of JAM’s acclaimed chef Matt Merrin, along with Tyron Samuel. Perched on the first floor, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the river and city skyline, setting the perfect backdrop for a special meal. The menu champions local, seasonal produce and high-quality ingredients, delivered with flair.

Bonus tip: Begin your evening downstairs at Botaniq, the venue’s stylish wine, gin, and cocktail bar. Expect an impressive wine list, a creative gin selection, signature cocktails, and craft beers. It’s the ideal warm-up before heading upstairs to Bridgewater Q.

7. Marmor and Terasu at Ardo Hotel

As mentioned, Ardo Hotel is Townsville’s latest luxury accommodation establishment. Positioned on the water looking directly over to Magnetic Island, you’re spoiled for choice here. Start at Ardo Rooftop for sunset drinks, then choose between Marmor or Terasu. Marmor excels in elevated Australian cuisine, where land meets sea. The fine-dining menu details where several main ingredients originate. Terasu’s specialty is modern Japanese dining. Go with at least a group of four to enjoy the Feed Me option.

8. The Balcony Restaurant

Housed in one of Flinders Street’s cutest and most colourful Art Deco buildings, The Balcony Restaurant is a long-time favourite in Townsville City. With more than 40 years of service, it’s safe to say they’ve mastered the art of breakfast and brunch. Highlights include poached pear, chocolate honeycomb waffles, and a hearty bacon chop with eggs. It’s a charming spot with character and flavour to match.

9. Miss Songs Asian Kitchen

Located inside The Ville, the multi-award-winning Miss Songs Asian Kitchen brings a modern twist to classic Chinese dishes. This stylish Asian fusion spot is perfect for a date night, especially if you go for the indulgent Signature Banquet. Menu favourites include handmade dim sum, their signature Peking duck, and a standout pandan crème brûlée to finish on a sweet note.

Bonus restaurant: Miss Songs is just one of several dining options at The Ville. For a more casual experience, head to Quarterdeck. With relaxed vibes and a menu packed with pasta, pizza, and burgers, it’s the perfect spot for a laid-back lunch or sunset drinks overlooking the pool.

10. Odyssey on the Strand

Odyssey, perched opposite The Rockpool on The Strand, is a family-run gem known for its warm hospitality and Mediterranean-inspired breakfast and lunch menu. If you try just one thing, make it the choc-chip pancakes. Think a stack of three fluffy pancakes loaded with too much ice cream and a bowl of maple syrup. It’s indulgent, over the top, and 100% worth it.

11. Longboard Bar & Grill

Longboard Bar & Grill is a laid-back Strand favourite perched right on the water. The menu combines Tex-Mex, American-Mexican fusion, and classic pub fare. Expect tacos, signature buffalo wings, burgers with waffle fries, and sides like Mexican mozzarella sticks. Pair it all with a local beer on tap or turn up the heat with something from their exclusive tequila menu.

Bonus restaurant: Next door to Longboard, CBAR has been a Strand staple for over 20 years. This relaxed seaside spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an eclectic, crowd-pleasing menu. Start your day with a blue swimmer crab omelette, drop in for duck à l’orange at lunch, or share the fish for two come dinnertime.

12. Wild Rice Laos & Thai Cuisine

It took me way too long to finally tick Wild Rice off my Townsville food bucket list, and now I’m kicking myself for waiting. Tucked upstairs in a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it building on Flinders Street East, this local gem has outlasted countless neighbours (not even exaggerating). Specialising in flavour-packed Laos and Thai cuisine, as the name suggests, it’s BYO and absolutely delicious. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but noodle lovers like me will swoon over the Pad Thai and Pad See Ew. And the pineapple fried rice? Served in a pineapple half. Enough said.

13. The Beet Bar

Fun fact: I actually worked at The Beet Bar for a hot six weeks before a certain global bug flipped everything upside down. Since then, it’s flourished into a bigger, brighter cafe in the heart of Townsville City. Open for brekkie and lunch, the menu is stacked with crowd-pleasers. Grab a vegan homemade Snickers bar for a snack, dig into one of their signature acai bowls for breakfast, treat yourself to chicken and waffles for brunch, or go classic with a loaded sandwich combo for lunch. You seriously can’t go wrong. I’m obsessed with it all!

14. Shorehouse Townsville

It’s safe to say you could spend your whole Townsville getaway on The Strand without getting bored or going hungry. Shorehouse Townsville is another must-visit, serving up Asian fusion with a focus on shared plates. Pair your picks with a craft beer, a fun cocktail, or something special from their impressive wine list.

15. Rooftop at Rambutan

The newest spot to earn a place on my list of favourite restaurants in Townsville? Rooftop at Rambutan. Whether you’re lounging poolside or soaking up the city views from above, this spot nails the vibe. Swing by for a cheeky drink or settle in for dinner with pub classics and Armati’s wood-fired pizzas on the menu. Bonus: they’ve got fun weekday specials worth keeping an eye on.

16. The Spirited Goat

While The Spirited Goat made its name in Idalia, it now has a second home on The Strand. Known just as much for its coffee as its all-day menu, this spot covers you from breakfast through dinner. My go-to is the Bakers Breakfast (scrambled eggs, bacon and tomato relish in a croissant), but the steak sandwich (pictured above) is also a winner. No matter when you drop in, there’s always something to hit the spot.

I hope this guide helps you decide which restaurants in Townsville to add to your list when visiting.

If you’re jumping over to Maggie, don’t miss my Magnetic Island restaurants guide. From cute cafes and top-notch pizza joints to the best burgers in town, I’ve covered all the tasty spots.

Townsville restaurants FAQs

PREPARE FOR YOUR TRIP
– Book accommodation with Booking.com or Hostelworld. Yes, I am that person who checks both places before booking accommodation to get the best price.
– Organise travel insurance.
– Book adventures via GetYourGuide, my preferred provider. In some instances, I’ve found activities here that were sold out elsewhere.
– Stay connected with an eSIM from Sim Local.
– Check out my travel resources page for more info.
Any and all support is appreciated 🫶🏻.

Thank you to Real Italian Restaurants for partnering with me on this post.