Australian Cuisine: 40 Dishes That Locals Proudly Call Their Own

What defines Australian cuisine?

While Australians enjoy dishes like fried rice, Thai curries, and Mediterranean fare, these aren’t strictly Australian. They reflect the multicultural fabric of the country but are often tied to other nations.

Aside from the native kangaroo meat – and perhaps the now American-owned Vegemite – there are more local specialties. Some are well-known, some might surprise you. Australia’s culinary scene boasts these 40 signature dishes (with a few Sydney-area spots to try them).

40. Witchetty Grubs

A true bush tucker, the grub offers a nutty taste and has been a part of indigenous Australian diets for thousands of years. While many Australians struggle to eat it raw, two things remain true – it tastes surprisingly good and it’s a true part of the land.

39. Anzac Biscuits

Linked to Anzac Day on April 25, these crunchy biscuits are a heartfelt tribute to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) soldiers who fought in World War I. A delicious piece of Australian history.

During the war, wives baked the Anzac biscuits and sent them to soldiers because the simple ingredients (rolled oats, flour, sugar, desiccated coconut, golden syrup, butter, bicarbonate of soda, and water) could withstand long storage, even on lengthy sea voyages.

Get it: The Colonial Bakery, 4 Ennis Road, Milsons Point, +61 (0)2 9955 3958

38. Emu

Emu meat is packed with iron, offering several times the amount found in beef, while being virtually fat-free and low in cholesterol. It’s great when smoked and served cold or used as a topping for pizza. For a gourmet twist, try it in a pie with smoked emu, feta cheese, red wine, sun-dried tomatoes, onions, and Tasmanian black pepper, all wrapped in a crispy filo pastry.

Get it: The Australian Heritage Hotel, 100 Cumberland St., The Rocks, +61 (0)2 9247 2229

37. Macadamia Nuts

Native to eastern Australia, macadamia nuts are enjoyed raw or incorporated into a variety of dishes. From savory breads and lamb roasts to sweet cakes, they add versatility to the menu. Pick some up around Byron Bay in the spring.

36. Damper

This classic, budget-friendly Australian dish was once the go-to meal for road workers and bushmen. Initially, the recipe was as basic as it gets: soda bread made with wheat flour, water, and a pinch of salt, baked in the hot coals of a campfire, and often enjoyed with billy tea or a swig of rum. Nowadays, it’s a bit more refined, with additions like milk and self-raising flour.

Get it: Baker’s Delight, Shop G02, Level 3, The Broadway Shopping Centre, 1-21 Bay St., Sydney, +61 (0)2 9212 7311

35. Pea and Ham Soup

A classic comfort food, pea and ham soup is the perfect hearty winter dish. While it likely has British roots, this simple yet satisfying meal has been a staple in farmhouse kitchens for generations. For an extra boost of flavor, add sliced frankfurters or smoked sausage.

34. Weet-Bix

How many can you eat? This fiber-rich breakfast biscuit, crafted from whole-grain wheat, has been a beloved Australian food since 1930.

Smaller, sweeter, and more compact than the Weetabix found abroad, Weet-Bix is typically served with a few Queensland bananas, strawberries, or a sprinkle of sugar, topped with milk. It’s the quintessential Aussie breakfast, as reflected in the brand's iconic slogan, 'Aussie kids are Weet-Bix kids'—unless, of course, you're in New Zealand, where the kids there proudly claim the same title.

33. Lamingtons

The lamington is often hailed as Australia's 'National Cake.' In fact, the National Trust of Queensland has even named it one of the country's most beloved icons. This square sponge cake is dipped in chocolate icing and rolled in desiccated coconut. Sometimes, it’s split in half and filled with jam or cream. Commonly found in cafes alongside a cup of tea or coffee, lamingtons are also a favorite at bake sales and fundraisers.

Get it: My Little Cupcakes, 62 Ben Boyd Road, Neutral Bay, +61 (0)2 9909 3908

32. Salt and pepper calamari

A quick and easy dish, salt-and-pepper calamari involves coating squid in a seasoned batter, then deep-frying it until crispy. This pub favorite is typically served as a snack, often accompanied by a fresh side salad and a dip of sweet chili sauce.

Get it: Pho 236, 236 King St., Newtown, +61 (0)2 9550 2480

31. Roast lamb leg

There’s something about a lamb roast that calls loved ones home, especially when mum’s cooking it for Sunday lunch. The secret lies in the garlic, rosemary, and olive oil that infuse the meat, making it both tender and full of flavor. Paired with a mountain of roasted potatoes, it’s a dish that unites the family. While the lamb roast may have roots beyond Australia, Aussies swear no one can prepare it quite like they do.

Get it: Victor Churchill, 132 Queen St., Woollahra, +61 (0)2 9328 0402

30. Fish and chips by the beach

When it’s wrapped in yesterday’s newsprint, you know you’ve found the Aussie take on fish and chips. The sun’s shining, the water’s inviting, and you’re craving something delicious. Australia boasts some of the freshest seafood in the world, so expect tender fish served with a generous squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of salt, wrapped up in newspaper or simple white paper.

Get it: Doyles on the Beach, 11 Marine Parade, Watsons Bay, +61 (0)2 9337 2007

29. John Dory fillets

A favorite in Australian waters, including the iconic Sydney Harbour, John Dory is a popular choice for local dishes. Whether battered and fried with a side of chips or pan-seared with aromatic herbs on a creamy bed of mashed potatoes, this meaty fish is a versatile and beloved part of Aussie cuisine.

Get it: Golden Sheaf Hotel, 429 New South Head Road, Double Bay, +61 (0) 2 9327 5877

28. Iced VoVo

When former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd mentioned the Iced VoVo in his 2007 election speech, he ensured the biscuit’s place in Australian history, forever associating it with national pride and nostalgia.

The wheat-based biscuit, topped with a ribbon of pink fondant on either side of raspberry jam and dusted with shredded coconut, offers a sweet and satisfying bite with both crunch and softness. Made by Arnott’s, an iconic Australian biscuit company that’s now part of the U.S.-based Campbell Soup Company.

27. Barbecued snags

Nothing embodies Australia like gathering friends and family for a barbecue. And no Aussie barbie is complete without a selection of snags – from classic pork and beef to sausages infused with flavors from around the globe.

There’s something comforting about a snag nestled in a roll or a slice of bread, topped with your favorite sauce, maybe some crispy fried onions, and a side of spuds. A sausage sizzle outside the local hardware store on a Sunday adds a little DIY charm to the weekend.

Get it: Glenmore Meats, 40-46 Wentworth Park Road, Glebe, +61 (0)2 9660 3522

26. Balmain bugs

A type of slipper lobster found in the shallow waters around Australia, Balmain bugs are small, clawless creatures whose tail is the only edible part. Despite the effort required to crack open their delicate tails, they’re worth every bit of attention for seafood lovers.

Get it: Sydney Fish Market, Bank St., Pyrmont. +61 (0)2 9004 1100

25. Pavlova

Australia and New Zealand have long been rivals, and the battle over the pavlova’s origin is another chapter in their friendly competition. Both countries assert they created this dish in honor of Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who toured the region in the 1920s. However, no definitive proof has settled the debate (unlike with Crowded House, Phar Lap, or Russell Crowe).

Even if it were to be proven that New Zealand was the true birthplace of pavlova, Australians would still claim it as their own. This beloved meringue-based dessert features a crisp, golden shell with a soft, airy center. It’s often crowned with whipped cream and fresh fruits, making it a staple at celebrations.

Get it: Pavlova Pantry, 351 Rocky Point Road, Sans Souci, +61 (0)2 9529 9289

24. Prawn cocktail

A classic seafood starter, the prawn cocktail features shelled prawns coated in a creamy mayonnaise and tangy tomato dressing, typically served in a glass with a garnish of lettuce. While popular globally, Australia truly adopted the prawn cocktail as its own during the 1970s, marking the dawn of a new era in Aussie fine dining.

Get it: Etch, 62 Bridge St., Sydney, +61 (0)2 9247 4777

23. Tim Tam

Arnott’s, the makers of Tim Tams, reports selling around 35 million packs annually. That's a staggering 400 million biscuits, equating to an average of 1.7 packs per Australian. This beloved chocolate treat consists of two layers of malted biscuit, filled with smooth chocolate and coated in a glossy chocolate shell. It's no wonder these iconic biscuits are now available in supermarkets worldwide.

22. Dagwood dog

A carnival classic, the Dagwood dog is a deep-fried frankfurter on a stick, usually drenched in tomato sauce. Often associated with the Sydney Royal Easter Show, this snack is a must-have at most Australian festivals and fairs.

21. Sausage rolls

A classic Australian snack, sausage rolls consist of seasoned sausage meat wrapped in flaky pastry and baked to golden perfection. While variations of this dish are enjoyed globally, Australia has embraced the sausage roll in its own unique way, infusing global flavors to create a modern twist on this traditional snack.

Get it: Bourke Street Bakery, 633 Bourke St., Surry Hills, +61 (0)2 9699 1011

20. SAO biscuit

Originally created as a charity snack by the Salvation Army, the SAO biscuit is a light, square-shaped cracker that has become a staple in Australian homes. Often topped with a spread like Vegemite and butter, these crispy biscuits are perfect for making simple, yet satisfying sandwiches.

For generations, kids have enjoyed squeezing their SAO sandwiches to make 'worms' of spread ooze from the holes in the biscuit. It's a fun and quirky way to turn a simple snack into a bit of culinary play.

19. Cherry Ripe

Australia's beloved Cherry Ripe, the nation's oldest chocolate bar, continues to be a favorite. Its rich combination of sweet cherries and coconut is coated in decadent dark chocolate from Cadbury’s Old Gold range.

18. Fairy bread

Fairy bread is the nostalgic treat that takes you back to childhood. Simple yet delightful, it’s made by spreading butter or margarine on white bread, cutting it into triangles, and then covering it with colorful hundreds-and-thousands. It's a party favorite and a breeze to make.

17. Chicken parmigiana

A dish with Italian roots but unmistakably Australian, the parmigiana evolved from its original eggplant version in Italy to become a chicken schnitzel smothered with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. It's a perfect blend of flavors that has become a pub staple.

Some variations even add a layer of ham or prosciutto on top, making it even more indulgent. The classic 'parma night' at the local pub wouldn’t be complete without this comforting dish, usually served with a cold beer. A true Aussie tradition.

Get it: Pyrmont Point Hotel, 59 Harris St., Pyrmont, +61 (0)2 9660 1908

16. Pigs in a blanket

The ultimate side dish for a roast. In the U.S., this term usually refers to hot dogs or sausages wrapped in dough or pancake batter. But in Australia, it's a meat lover's dream—think of it as a sandwich made entirely of meat, with no bread to get in the way.

15. Chiko roll

A true Aussie classic, the Chiko roll draws inspiration from Chinese spring rolls. Despite its name, it’s filled with beef (no chicken here), along with a medley of vegetables like celery, cabbage, barley, carrot, onion, and green beans, all wrapped up in a crispy battered shell. It’s a bit of a mystery—some varieties may contain offal, too.

Some Chiko rolls contain ingredients that are hard to identify, adding to their quirky appeal. Perfect for eating on the move, these deep-fried treats are often sold at fish ‘n’ chip shops or by street vendors, particularly at train stations.

14. Spag bol

Yes, this one might raise a few eyebrows, but spaghetti bolognese is a true Italian classic. When made with Aussie beef and earthy mushrooms, though, it takes on a distinctly Australian vibe.

Get it: Fratelli Fresh Waterloo, 7 Danks St., Waterloo, +61 (0) 2 9699 3161

13. Meat pies

You can't truly claim to be Australian unless you've had a meat pie. More than once. This flaky, golden pastry encasing a savory filling is a quintessential Aussie treat. Often referred to as a 'dog's eye,' the contents have sparked many debates over the years.

It’s the go-to snack at every house party, sporting event, and post-night out. While modern variations of the meat pie have made their way into the gourmet scene, for a classic experience, nothing beats the simple version with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Get it: Harry’s Cafe de Wheels, Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo, +61 (0)2 9357 3074

12. Seafood pizza

We all know pizza hails from Italy. But if you’re after a proper marinara, Sydney’s where you need to be.

Top your pizza with the freshest seafood from Australia’s pristine waters. Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra zing, and don’t forget a cold beer or chilled chardonnay to wash it all down. Australians still can’t figure out why Americans call tomato sauce 'marinara.'

Get it: Made in Italy, 104 Miller St., Pyrmont, +61 (0)2 9518 8182

11. Crocodile

While crocodiles aren’t exclusive to Australia, thanks to Mick Dundee, they’ve become iconic Down Under. The leather from crocodiles is crafted into high-end accessories like wallets and belts, but their meat is also a local delicacy—though it’s not exactly common fare.

Get it: The Australian Heritage Hotel, 100 Cumberland St., The Rocks, +61 (0) 2 9247 2229.

10. Vegemite on toast

Vegemite on toast is a classic Aussie breakfast, lunch, or snack—just like the catchy tune says. This is about as Aussie as it gets.

Though it may resemble Britain’s Marmite, Australians will argue that Vegemite is a world apart—more savory, less sweet, and with a complex, rich flavor. Made from yeast extract, it’s definitely not just another spread.

The method is simple: spread your Vegemite on toast quickly, ensuring a smooth, even layer for the perfect bite.

Vegemite’s popularity led to a massive uproar in Australia when rumors spread that U.S. Customs had banned its import. The media went wild, calling for protests at the White House. In the end, it turned out to be an urban myth.

9. Vanilla slice

This French-inspired pastry, originally known as mille-feuille (or 'thousand sheets'), has found its true home in Australia.

Known in Australia as the vanilla slice, this pastry features layers of vanilla custard between crisp pastry, topped with a dusting of icing sugar. You can find it with a variety of flavor twists—whip it into a creamy delight.

Much like the pavlova, New Zealanders also lay claim to the vanilla slice, calling it the 'custard square'—which is perhaps a more fitting name. Australians have their vanilla slice, Kiwis have their custard square. Both are winners in their own right.

Get it: La Renaissance, 47 Argyle St., The Rocks, +61 (0)2 9241 4878

8. Cheese and bacon roll

Not exactly a choice for health-conscious individuals, but it’s a beloved remedy for the morning-after crowd. The cheese and bacon roll is essentially a bread roll stuffed with bacon and cheese. It’s a common fixture in Australian lunchboxes.

Get it: Baker’s Delight, Shop G02, Level 3, The Broadway Shopping Centre, 1-21 Bay St., Sydney, +61 (0)2 9212 7311

7. Grilled kangaroo

Why not enjoy the national symbol on your plate? In some regions, kangaroos are in such large numbers they’re considered overpopulated. Plus, kangaroo meat is low in fat and methane-free. It’s best served rare to medium as it can easily dry out if overcooked, typically grilled on just one side.

Kangaroo pairs wonderfully with bold flavors like garlic, pepper, juniper, rosemary, and fruits such as plum, red currant, and orange. And for the record, no, Australians don’t deep-fry koalas.

Get it: I’m Angus Steak House, The Promenade, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney 1300 989 989 (Australia).

6. Barramundi

Arguably one of the most iconic fish species in Australia, Barramundi takes its name from the Aboriginal word meaning “large-scaled river fish.” It’s commonly served across the country, often pan-fried or seared with the skin on (rarely battered or deep-fried), and usually presented as a fish steak topped with a flavorful herbed oil.

Get it: Pier, 594 New South Head Road, Rose Bay, +61 (0)2 9327 6561

5. Crab sticks

They’re called crab sticks, but do they actually contain any crab? These beloved snacks are made from processed, minced white fish that is shaped and cured to mimic the texture of crab meat. And truth be told, they’re probably more crab-like than the deep-fried versions you’d find at your local fish and chips shop.

Get it: Zushi Darlinghurst, 239 Victoria St., Darlinghurst, +61 (0)2 9357 3533

4. Fantales

A beloved Australian treat, Fantales are small, chewy bites of caramel coated in smooth milk chocolate. Famous for their bright yellow and blue packaging, each wrapper contains a fun movie trivia fact, making them a favorite for film buffs and snackers alike.

3. Chicken and corn soup

Australia has fully embraced Chinese cuisine, with Chinese restaurants found in nearly every corner of the country. One dish that stands out as a local favorite is chicken and corn soup. So beloved by Aussies, it's practically considered a national dish.

Get it: Saigon Bay, 249 Oxford St., Darlinghurst, +61 (0)2 9360 3220

2. Green chicken curry pie

Australians have a passion for Thai food. They also have an undeniable love for pies. Combine the two by stuffing a traditional Thai green chicken curry inside a golden, flaky pie crust, and you've got a unique Aussie take on the classic curry.

Get it: Harry’s Cafe de Wheels, Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo, +61 (0) 2 9357 3074.

1. Burger with beetroot

Burgers can be found worldwide, but nothing says 'Australia' like adding a slice of beetroot to a beef patty made from Aussie-grown beef. The all-beef patty, melted cheese, and soft bun are simply incomplete without that signature beetroot touch.

So iconic that even Ronald McDonald attempted to cash in on the trend with the McOz a while back. However, the true home of this Aussie classic is the local takeaway shop or your neighborhood pub.

Get it: Burgerman, 116 Surrey St., Darlinghurst, +61 (0) 2 9361 0268