Australia’s top spots for a taste of the Mediterranean

Wander down King Street Wharf and straight into a Greek island escape at Georges Mediterranean Bar & Grill – there’s fresh seafood, mezze platters and traditional souvlaki just waiting for you to celebrate the Mediterranean simplicity. With a renovated interior and a stellar wine and cocktail list, it’s Sydney’s go-to for laid-back Greek indulgence.

Rustic, welcoming and packed to the brim with the aroma of wood-fired creations, Cavallino brings authentic Italian flavours to Sydney’s northern suburbs. Signature dishes hero fresh mozzarella and heirloom tomatoes from Italy’s Campania region. Best of all, you can enjoy an intimate dinner or a celebration for up to 350 guests – this is Italian hospitality at its finest.

Housed in a charming old bank, The Alphington Social blends traditional Italian roots with modern creativity. Think nduja linguine, slow-cooked lamb shoulder and a feed-me menu that lets you sample the very best Mediterranean in a laid-back setting. Don’t leave without something from the cheese fridge: a tempting wall of Italian formaggi makes for a naughty – but necessary – takeaway.

Family-owned and always buzzing, Vibrante is an Italian institution in Templestowe. It’s got a menu packed with traditional pizzas, pastas and fresh seafood, which are all best enjoyed in the sun-drenched courtyard. The dining-room-turned-function-space makes it an easy pick for large gatherings, but it’s just as perfect for a casual meal.

The effortlessly coastal Citron Bayside channels a Mediterranean summer all year round. You could come here for a leisurely breakfast that’s bursting with flavour or settle in for a long lunch with a bottle of French, Spanish or local wine. This is Wellington Point’s answer to la dolce vita – best enjoyed streetside with a spritz in hand.

Middle Eastern elegance meets waterfront dining at Byblos. Here you’ll find a sophisticated riverside escape in Hamilton jam-packed with Lebanese flavours with a full-on Mediterranean twist, from chargrilled meats to fragrant mezze. Expect a world-class drinks selection and stunning views of Moreton Bay, so enjoy your cocktails and cuisine on your perfect night to remember.

It's perfect for lunch with a view of the beautiful river or dinner with the lights of the cityscape

You need to try the crab linguini with cream, tomato and chilli

Look out for dishes featuring fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients for a light and balanced meal

Floating over the River Torrens is this Adelaide institution that starts you off with a modern Italian menu and gives you some of the best city views around. The rolling glass walls blur the line between indoor and outdoor dining, while the chef’s focus on organic, free-range ingredients mean every dish – from handmade pasta to fresh seafood – is of the finest quality.

Step into 1960s Mediterranean glamour at Maria, where luxury and indulgence arrive in spades along the Hobart waterfront. You’ll get sweeping harbour views from Brooke Street Pier, but most important is the sophisticated eatery that’s all about rich flavours in a menu that will undoubtedly transport you to sun-drenched European summers – without even having to head to the mainland.

A modern gastropub with Spanish-inspired South American flair, Casey Jones is Canberra’s answer to laid-back, good food done right. Locals love enjoying boutique beers over brunch, but make sure you stay for a long dinner of bold Mediterranean flavours that feel like a celebration with every bite.