australia
Clockwise from top left: A crocodile jumping out of the Adelaide River; Tali Wiru Dining Experience; the nightly ceremonial dance at Garma Festival; a river crossing in Litchfield National Park Previous spread: Katherine Gorge at Nitmiluk National Park
FOOD & DRINK
With Asia at its front door and a vast bush pantry in the back yard, the Northern Territory blends multiple culinary cultures with native ingredients to create a unique food scene. Think wild buffalo curries, egg noodles with barramundi fish and chocolate tarts peppered with green ants.
You’ ll find all of these in Darwin, where outdoor markets reign supreme, and locals have a special soft spot for laksa( a spicy noodle dish) despite the stifling temperatures. Deciding which laksa is the best is a serious point of contention, which is why the city hosts a dedicated International Laksa Festival in October. But if you just want a taste, head over to Mary’ s at Parap Village Markets or Darwin Laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market.
Wild-caught crocodile, emu and kangaroo are common on restaurant and cafe menus around Darwin. The cafe at Aboriginal Bush Traders in Smith Street Mall specializes in native flavors with a modern twist, offering a tasting plate featuring nutty wattleseed, bright lemon myrtle and spicy pepperberry.
Because of their remote locations, there are fewer options when it comes to dining out in Alice Springs and Yulara, but visitors with special dietary needs can usually be accommodated. Most restaurants use locally sourced bush ingredients, which means you won’ t need to hop too far for a taste of kangaroo or emu. summer 2025 • 45