Everywhere good to eat on the Sunshine Coast

Noosa is one of Australia’s hottest foodie destinations and there’s no better place to taste what’s so special about this sun-drenched region than at the Noosa Beach House. With acclaimed chef George Francisco on the pans, a man who is inspired by local, seasonal ingredients and, in his words let’s the farm write his menu, you’ll be in good hands. Whether you’re in the bar enjoying the Hastings Street scene, or lingering over a long lunch in the dining room, you can expect freshly shucked oysters, mud crab, Queensland crayfish as well as the very best this region has to offer.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Mooloolaba prawn cocktail ($27)

Spectacular views of Noosa’s National Park? Tick! The glistening waters of Laguna Bay in the distance? Tick! Excellent food conceived by a celebrity chef? Tick, tick and tick! We are of course talking about View by Matt Golinski at Peppers Noosa Resort and Villa, and if you’re after an all day menu that hews closely to the ideals of the Slow Food movement this is the place. From a decadent breakfast buffet to confit Moya Valley chicken for dinner, here it’s all about local, seasonal and delicious.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Ricotta gnocchi with braised lamb belly, eggplant and kale salsa verde ($34)

Modern and minimal, it’s all about the chargrill at Japanese casual fine diner Soka. Expect pork belly and Wagyu yakitori, as well as a wide range of dishes cooked on the grill from Murray cod with white soy ponzu sauce and brown garlic butter, to broccolini with yuzu goma dressing. There’s also some melt-in-the-mouth sashimi and a matcha tiramisu to finish things off right.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Sashimi taco ($16)

If cool Asian street food is your jam, then Noosaville’s Sum Yung Guys is the place to be. The brainchild of ex-Masterchef star Matt Sinclair and his good buddies, a night here promises great cocktails, delicious Asian-inspired fusion eats and an almost guaranteed good time. The menu is made for sharing, so delight in dishes like lemongrass salad with pork belly and apple as well as soy braised eggplant with shitake and ginger, and enjoy the perfect night out.

Dish Cult’s top pick: “Crying tiger” short rib, fried garlic, kaffir and Thai basil ($44)

Is there anywhere better to experience what Noosa life is all about than Rickys? Picture yourself there, blood orange margarita in one hand, snacking on cheese stuffed olives with the other, enjoying spectacular water views and gorgeous sunsets. Sounds good right? The menu is stacked with local seafood and produce, making it the perfect venue for a particularly long, languid lunch.

Dish Cult’s top pick:  Spanner crab spaghettini with garlic, chilli, shallot and lemon (Main, $48)

If it’s a tropical garden, tranquil pond and a getaway from the hustle and bustle of busy Noosa that you’re after, Spirit House has that in spades. The menu leans strongly Thai and is full of delicious temptations such as banana leaf with grilled whitefish, yellow curry souffle made from Fraser Isle spanner crab and aerated Thai doughnuts. There’s also a renowned cooking school on site, so if you want to learn how to make these dishes for yourself, you can.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Baked palm sugar caramel cake 

Do you fancy a little bit of southern comfort? If yes, then consider visiting Dirty Moes. This casual diner at Mooloolaba offers American barbeque classics with a twist like smoked barbecue Wagyu brisket and bacon wrapped pork collar. There’s also an extensive selection of decadent burgers, nachos, waffle fries, customised cocktails and craft beers, all served in a unique movie-themed environment.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Philly cheese steak ($20)