Even though the Northern Territory is home to Australian bush tucker, tourists will not have to eat this food when traveling here. Of course, sampling Aboriginal bush food is something all tourists should do, but it isn’t the only menu found throughout the territory. Darwin has an exhaustive list of cuisines on offer, including Asian, Central American, Indian, seafood and traditional Australian dishes. Alice Springs and Katherine, despite their size, boast excellent culinary cultures too. Certain areas of the territory fall under strict alcohol restrictions which need to be adhered to by everyone. However, there are plenty of places to enjoy a night out. The local beer, NT Draught, is widely consumed, although other Australian beer can be found in most establishments.

Bars and Pubbing in Northern Territory

Darwin is the center of the Northern Territory’s night life. However, tourists will find a more mellow night scene in comparison to other capital cities around Australia. The Victoria Hotel (Smith Street Mall, Darwin CBD) is a typical pub-style establishment that boasts live music, sports watching facilities and a friendly atmosphere. The best place for live bands in Darwin is Turtles Bar and Bistro (342 Casuarina Drive, Rapid Creek, Darwin). In addition, the Holiday Inn is where Sirocco Restaurant and Bar (Holiday Inn Esplanade, 116 The Esplanade, Darwin, Northern Territory) awaits visitors. This spot is generally regarded as the most elegant drinking spot in the city.

Alice Springs is surprisingly blessed when it comes to nightlife venues, but there are strict laws about drinking in public in the Northern Territory, so make sure alcohol always stays indoors. Todd Tavern (1 Todd Street, Alice Springs) is one of the more famous spots for a drink, and is located conveniently upon Todd Mall. Bojangles (80 Todd Street, Alice Springs) is another famous nightlife spot, although it can get quite loud on the weekends. The Gillen Club (Milner Road, Alice Springs) is a popular place to down a few coldies. It isn’t located in the center of town, but is still convenient to reach.

Tennant Creek is small, but there are several great places to enjoy a few alcoholic beverages. Locals love to hang out at The Memo, which is officially titled Tennant Creek Memorial Club (48 Schmidt Street, Tennant Creek). Live entertainment and friendly locals will make a visit to this venue a memorable one. In addition, the Tennant Creek Hotel (146 Paterson Street, Tennant Creek) is the oldest hotel/pub in the town.

Dining and Cuisine in Northern Territory

Darwin is filled with amazing dining options. In the CBD, Australian bush foods and Asian influences are intertwined at Essence (1 Henry Wrigley Drive, Marrara, Darwin). For the best steak and seafood dishes in town, visit Redsalt Bar and Grill (Crowne Plaza Darwin, 32 Mitchell Street, Darwin). Extensive Mediterranean and Australian dishes are on display at Evoo Restaurant (Skycity Darwin, Gilruth Avenue, Darwin), one of the trendiest and most popular spots in Darwin for fine dining.

Katherine has a range of dining options, so visitors won’t go hungry here. Katie’s Bistro (Cameron Street, Katherine) is a relaxed and informal dining venue that has been one of the longest running restaurants in the town. The best Chinese meals in Katherine are found at Regent Court Chinese Restaurant (25 First Street, Katherine). Get a taste of Central Australian hospitality at Digger Den Tavern (7 Victoria Highway, Katherine).

Alice Springs is a thriving township in the Northern Territory with plenty of restaurants. Red Ochre Grill (11 Leichardt Terrace, Alice Springs) is a fusion restaurant like no other. Much of the cuisine is Western food, although unique Indigenous tastes are thrown into the mix for a tasty concoction. Tourists need to experience Overlander’s Steakhouse (72 Hartley Street, Alice Springs) for a great, traditional, meaty meal. An olden-style Italian restaurant is found at Casa Nostra (870/1 Undoolya Road, Alice Springs). Great pizza and pasta selections are available here.