Dining out has been made even more special by the addition of new restaurants at Cullen Bay Marina in Darwin, offering outdoor dining with beautiful ocean views. Cuisine from many countries, including Creole, Greek, Indian, Japanese, Malaysian, Mongolian and Thai, is available in the larger towns.
Regional specialities:
• The ngarlkirdi, or witchetty grub, is considered a delicacy. High in protein, eat it either raw or cooked, depending on how adventurous you feel!
• Spread your toast with some Kakadu Plum Jam.
• Grab a bite of the quandongs, a native peach with a delicate flavour, usually served stewed or in ice cream.
• Damper (bread) with honey is a popular snack.
• The Northern Territory is justly proud of their superb barrumundi (fish).
• For those who can stomach it, there is opportunity to eat kangaroos, emus and, even, crocodile.
• Macadamia nuts can be eaten raw or roasted.
• Roots and tubers are prevalent.
Regional drinks:
• The blue flowered herb, chicory, is a famous coffee substitute.
• Native plants such as Leptospermum provide the most commonly used bush tea, referred to as tea tree.
• Cappuccino is often seasoned with wattle seed.

There is plenty of exciting nightlife in Darwin, which also boasts the SKYCITY Darwin, built in an extraordinary modern architectural style. This A$30-million casino complex also encompasses luxury accommodation, restaurants, discos and sporting and convention facilities and is surrounded by lush gardens perched along the shores of Mindil Beach. Alice Springs also has a casino.

Darwin specialities include Aboriginal artefacts and Outback clothing. Aboriginal items, bush clothing and opals are available in Alice Springs. Darwin’s markets are great attractions.