Mackay is the culinary capital of Queensland, with a stunning range of delicious food offerings from Modern Australian, through Indian, Greek, Cuban and some intriguing and experimental fusion options. Fine dining in Mackay is a given, all served up in the traditionally laid-back and relaxed Queensland style.
Foodspace is part of Artspace, the regional art gallery, but stands a cut above a traditional gallery cafe. A space for emerging chefs to practice their art, they serve up cutting edge, artistic and inspired breakfasts and lunches, and is a cool, contemporary place to relax after a morning of art. It also boasts one of the nicest views in town, overlooking the green, spacious Civic Precinct. Open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 2pm and Saturday 8:30am to 1pm. Closed Sunday.
For fine dining in Mackay, The Church on Palmer is an absolute must. The setting of a deconsecrated church makes for an atmosphere of peaceful elegance, and the exquisite service and contemporary menu are exceptional, making for an elegant and unforgettable dining experience. Their wine list is extensive and carefully chosen, and the staff are very knowledgeable, able to provide perfect pairings for any menu choices. Open Monday to Saturday from 6:30pm.
Roshni is a family-run restaurant that is about as close to being in India as you can get without getting on a plane. They specialise in Northern Indian cuisine, with exceptional curries and perfect samosas, which are a crowd favourite. An emphasis on quality and service, they expertly and successfully blend comfortable, traditional Indian cuisine with an atmosphere of fine dining. Open for lunch from 11:30am to 2pm Monday to Friday, and for dinner all week from 5pm.
Fusion 128 is a stand-out from Mackay’s already outstanding food scene. A remarkable blend of Modern Australian, French and Asian recipes and techniques, it is a really exciting and intriguing addition to the array of excellent restaurant options in Mackay. They create an intimate atmosphere with low lit industrial design and friendly, laid-back service, which complements the food perfectly. Open for lunch Tuesday to Saturday from 11:30am to 2pm, and for dinner Tuesday to Thursday 5:30pm to 9pm, and Friday to Saturday 5:30pm to 10pm.
Coco Cubano is a little slice of Havana’s bright, colourful and vibrant rhythms in the heart of Mackay’s CBD. It is a casual, lively vibe, and their classic cocktails are just the ticket to go with the bold, spicy South American flavours of the food. If you are looking for a fun, energetic and laid-back atmosphere, this is the place. Open from 8am until late all week.
Let’s Do Greek was the first restaurant to bring truly authentic and traditional Greek cuisine to the Mackay region, and they’ve been a smash hit since they opened in 2017. Their menu takes you on a tour of the Mediterranean, with a fantastic meze selection, loads of fresh seafood, and show-stoppers like kleftiko and souvlaki. Open from 4:30pm to 9:30pm Monday to Saturday, and 10:30am to 2:30am on Sunday.