Byron Bay quick guide to eating and drinking

Byron Bay is a holidaymaker's dream, and its restaurant scene is as vibrant as its beaches: creative, produce-driven and effortlessly cool. From laid-back cafés to refined hinterland restaurants, Byron and the Northern Rivers serve up memorable dining at every turn.

Here’s where to eat on your next stay in Byron Bay

Quick guide to grabbing a bite in Byron:

Breakfast and coffee

• Bayleaf Cafe — 2A Marvell Street, Byron Bay
• Combi Byron Bay — 5/21–25 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay
• Top Shop — 65 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay

Lunch and dinner

• The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. — 7/3 Lawson Street, Byron Bay
• Light Years — 3/17 Lawson Street, Byron Bay
• Miss Margarita — 2 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
• The Smoking Camel — 1/139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
• Fishheads — 1 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
• Treehouse on Belongil — 25 Childe Street, Byron Bay
• Beach Byron Bay — Clarkes Beach, 2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay

Best cafés in Byron Bay to grab a coffee, smoothie or breakfast

Bayleaf Café

Bayleaf Cafe is a Byron favourite known for exceptional coffee and colourful, produce-led breakfasts. It’s lively, central and consistently good — arrive early to beat the rush.

The Top Shop

Just up the hill from town, The Top Shop is perfect for post-beach coffee, smoothies or one of their popular burgers. Grab a takeaway and relax on the lawn under the palms.

Combi Byron Bay

Just steps from the beach, Combi is known for its vibrant smoothie bowls, organic coffee and health-focused menu. It’s a go-to for acai bowls and fresh juices, perfect for a light breakfast or post-surf refuel.

Otherside Café

Otherside Cafe is a local gem serving wholesome, seasonal dishes with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options. A relaxed alternative to the main street buzz.

Little Byronian

Little Byronian is a friendly, unfussy and generous — Little Byronian is a great choice for easy breakfasts and strong coffee.

Long lunches & casual dining

Three Blue Ducks at The Farm

A must-visit Byron experience. Set on a working farm just outside town, Three Blue Ducks focuses on organic, spray-free and sustainably grown produce — much of it harvested onsite. Ideal for a relaxed paddock-to-plate lunch.

The Balcony Bar & Oyster Co.

Overlooking Jonson Street, The Balcony pairs fresh seafood and seasonal plates with ocean breezes and a lively atmosphere. Great for brunch, cocktails or dinner.

The Northern Hotel

The Northern Hotel is an iconic Byron pub serving classic meals, cold drinks and regular live music. Perfect for casual lunches or an easy night out.

Beach Hotel

Right opposite Main Beach, the Beach Hotel is ideal for laid-back meals and sunset drinks with ocean views.

Best Byron Bay restaurants for date nights & stylish evenings

Moonlight

A sleek hibachi grill and wine bar tucked down Bay Lane, Monnlight offers creative small plates, premium seafood and excellent cocktails.

Light Years Byron Bay

Modern Asian share plates, bold flavours and a fun, energetic setting make Light Years a favourite for groups and celebrations.

Bar Heather

Bar Heather is a sophisticated wine bar in Jonson Lane with a curated list of natural wines and beautifully crafted small plates.

Best special occasion restaurants in and around Byron Bay

Celebrating something special? Byron delivers.

Raes on Wategos

Raes is an iconic beachfront restaurant overlooking Wategos Beach, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes with refined coastal style.

Beach Byron Bay

Set on Clarkes Beach with sweeping ocean views, Beach Byron Bay showcases seasonal local produce and seafood in an elevated setting.

The Hut Byron Bay

Located in a restored country schoolhouse in Possum Creek, The Hut offers a weekly changing Mediterranean-inspired menu designed for sharing. Worth the short hinterland drive.

Worth the drive: hinterland gems

Potager – Carool

Seasonal, garden-driven dining with sweeping country views, Potager is ideal for long, relaxed lunches. (1 hour from Byron Bay)

Bistro Livi – Murwillumbah

Bistro Livi is a highly regarded regional restaurant serving modern European share-style dishes using Northern Rivers produce. (45 minutes from Byron Bay)

Mullumbimby Continental

A relaxed bar and eatery in nearby Mullumbimby, Mullumbimby Continental is perfect for an easy evening out of town.

Sip & sample: Tasting spots in Byron Bay

Cape Byron Distillery

Set in a lush rainforest, Cape Byron Distillery produces award-winning gin and spirits using native botanicals. Enjoy a tasting in beautiful surroundings.