With the wet season finally settling in, bringing with it, much needed cooler days and relaxing drizzling rain, it’s the perfect excuse to embrace Darwin’s cosiest lunch spots. Whether you’re after something rich, spicy or straight-up comforting, we’ve rounded up four of our favourite places to indulge when grey skies roll in.
1. Besser – Winnellie
Hidden in the heart of Winnellie’s industrial pocket, Besser is anything but your average café. This award-winning fav, scooped up Hospitality NT’s title for Best Burger in the Territory, and it’s easy to see (and taste) why. Their all-day breakfast, brunch and lunch menu delivers the goods every time.
Try the standout Huevos Rancheros – a bold mix of spicy tomato sauce, soft eggs, green chilli, black beans and sourdough. Or go for the Soft Spiced Lamb Taco layered with slow-cooked lamb shoulder, flaky roti, mango chutney and fresh herbs. Bonus points for their award-winning coffee, thanks to their Barista of the Year title.
Fine Besser at 6/116 Coonawarra Road Winnellie, Darwin Northern Territory 0820
http://www.besserbrewbar.com.au/
2. Chow – Darwin Waterfront
When the skies open up, head to the Darwin Waterfront for a bowl of pure comfort at Chow. Known for its vibrant South Vietnamese flavours and fresh local ingredients, this buzzing restaurant is a go-to for soul-warming dishes.
Their signature Laksa – rich Malay curry broth with yellow and rice noodles, tofu puffs, bean sprouts and fried shallots – hits the spot every time. And don’t miss their Vietnamese baguettes, stuffed with crisp vegetables and your choice of pork, char-grilled chicken, marinated beef or a vegetarian twist.
Find Chow at Kitchener Dr, Darwin City NT 0800
3. The Coffee Man – Darwin City
If you haven’t yet stumbled across The Coffee Man in Darwin City, consider this your rainy season invitation. Beyond their perfectly brewed coffees and velvety hot chocolates, their artisan toasties are local legend.
Think oozy chicken and cheese melts, truffle mushroom toasties, or pulled pork and cheddar pressed to perfection. After something heartier? Their Eggs Benedict with ham, pulled pork or smoked salmon always delivers – or keep it fresh with their bright and zesty smashed avo.
Find Coffee Man 80 Mitchell Street, Darwin City NT 0800
http://www.facebook.com/coffeemandrw
4. Cool Spot – Fannie Bay
A long-standing local favourite, the Cool Spot in Fannie Bay has something for everyone – all day, every day. Open from 7am to 10pm, (kitchen closes at 9.30pm) it’s the kind of place that’s just as welcoming for a lazy lunch as it is for a late coffee run.
Their menu moves from gourmet burgers to fresh seafood and barramundi specials, with a cult following for their locally-made cakes and coffee. There’s even an ice cream fridge for those wet-season days when the humidity kicks back in. Pro tip – always check the specials board, as Chef Kim is known for crafting one-off creations that steal the show.
Find the Cool Spot Fannie Bay at 1 Fannie Bay Place, Fannie Bay, Darwin NT 0820
