Best Seafood Restaurants in Darwin

Darwin’s seafood scene is fresh, bold, and full of flavor. Whether you’re after a classic fish and chips feed or craving something a bit more tropical, this city serves up plenty of tasty options.

Thanks to its coastal location and warm climate, seafood here is often straight from the boat to your plate. You’ll find everything from grilled barramundi and salt and pepper squid to Asian-style chili prawns and oysters.

What makes Darwin special is the mix of cultures, which brings exciting flavors to the table. Many spots take influence from nearby Asia and the Top End’s own bush foods.

Here are the 6 best seafood restaurants in Darwin worth checking out.

Best Seafood Restaurants in Darwin

1- Tim’s Surf & Turf

Tim's Surf & Turf

Google Rating: 4.6

Located at 10 Litchfield Street, Tim’s Surf & Turf is a well-loved Darwin restaurant known for its hearty steak and seafood menu.

For starters, you can’t go wrong with the oysters, garlic prawns, or crispy calamari rings.

Also, their salt and pepper squid is full of flavors and has a great crunch. Another great item on the menu here is the crocodile schnitzel—unique and surprisingly tender.

If you’re hungry, go for the seafood platter for one. It’s generously stacked with prawns, bugs, mussels, fish, squid, oysters, and a big serve of fries—most of you won’t be able to finish it.

The place is quite spacious with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it ideal for casual dinners or group outings.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Tim’s Surf and Turf offers a big, satisfying taste of Darwin’s seafood.

2- Snapper Rocks

Snapper Rocks

Google Rating: 4.2

napper Rocks, located at B2/7 Kitchener Drive, is a lively seafood spot right on Darwin’s waterfront.

The place is always buzzing, and for good reason. The salt and pepper crocodile is a must-try—crispy outside and tender inside, with a taste very similar to chicken.

Their baby crocodile is equally impressive. The wild barramundi is another item on the menu that you need to order, cooked to perfection and full of natural flavors.

Surprisingly, there are a couple of vegetarian options as well, including a tasty cauliflower steak.

For drinks, try the Lime Light cocktail or the Pineapple Pina Colada—both are refreshing.

The outdoor seating is comfortable with fans and mist sprays to keep you cool. If you want seafood with a view and a great atmosphere, Snapper Rocks is one of the best seafood restaurants in Darwin.

Also Read: Best Steaks in Darwin

3- Crustaceans on the Wharf

Crustaceans on the Wharf

Google Rating: 4.0

Crustaceans on the Wharf, located at 45 Stokes Hill Wharf, offers one of the best seafood dining experiences in Darwin.

You can start with their Kilpatrick oysters, grilled with bacon for a smoky kick. The scallops are soft and buttery, while the lobster and bugs are juicy and expertly cooked.

Every seafood dish at Crustaceans is fresh, tasty, and made with lots of love.

If you’re dining with your partner or a friend, go for the Crustacean’s Deluxe Seafood Platter for Two.

It’s a full spread—featuring king prawns, oysters, chilli mussels, half lobster mornay, grilled Moreton Bay bug, local barramundi, calamari, scallops mornay, and creamy garlic and chilli prawns—served with chips, salad, and fruit.

It’s a feast worth sharing. With beautiful water views and consistently good food, this place is a favorite for locals and tourists alike.

4- Wharf One

Wharf One

Google Rating: 4.2

Wharf One, located at 19 Kitchener Drive, is just a short walk from Darwin city centre and even closer to the Convention Centre.

It’s a great place to enjoy seafood while watching the sun go down over the water. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between casual and refined, making it suitable for both relaxed dinners and special nights out.

If you are a seafood lover, you will be impressed by their Miso scallops and South Australian oysters.

The Chilled Australian tiger prawns are fresh and flavorful, while the wood grilled baby octopus is quite popular among locals.

If you enjoy fish, go for the Crispy Skin Humpty Doo Barramundi Fillet—it’s a local classic. The grilled NT prawn skewers are also worth ordering.

Another bonus? It’s a dog-friendly venue, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend at home.

Also Explore: Things to Do in Darwin

5- Soul Essence On The Bay

Soul Essence On The Bay

Google Rating: 4.7

Soul Essence On The Bay is located at 1/52 Marina Boulevard in Larrakeyah and offers a modern twist on local seafood favorites.

The setting by the marina adds to the laid-back charm, making it a great spot for casual dining or catching up with friends and family.

Start with their Salt and Pepper Crocodile, a unique Northern Territory dish featuring tender crocodile pieces with a tasty saltbush and pepper mix.

The grilled garlic prawns and BBQ marinated octopus are also standout options packed with flavors. Crispy Skin Barramundi is also a must-try and beautifully cooked.

If you’re dining in a group, don’t miss the Seafood Tower—it’s perfect for sharing and comes loaded with a variety of seafood.

The views of the harbor, combined with the fresh seafood, make Soul Essence On The Bay a must-visit. The vibe is easygoing but still feels like a treat.

6- Seafood on Cullen

Seafood on Cullen

Google Rating: 4.1

Seafood on Cullen, located at 51 Marina Boulevard in Larrakeyah, is all about seafood variety, freshness, and relaxed vibes.

This all-you-can-eat seafood buffet restaurant in Darwin is perfect for those who want to try a bit of everything. At $52.50 per adult, it offers great value for seafood fans.

Expect a wide range of options—from classic Fish & Chips, Oysters, and Mussels to Seafood Salad, Spicy Baby Octopus, and Salt & Pepper Calamari.

There are also specialty dishes like Chilli Crabs, Oyster Kilpatrick, and Seafood Mornay that give you a true taste of coastal Australia.

The open-air dining area lets you enjoy the sea breeze and watch the sun set over the water, making your meal even more enjoyable.

If you prefer cooler surroundings, the air-conditioned indoor area is just as comfortable and spacious.

Leave a comment

Quote of the week

"People ask me what I do in the winter when there's no baseball. I'll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring."

~ Rogers Hornsby