Tamarind

A Journey of Culinary Excellence in Cairns

There’s no shortage of places to eat in Cairns, but one dining destination consistently captures the hearts (and taste buds) of both locals and tourists alike—Tamarind. Not just any restaurant, Tamarind offers an extraordinary fine dining experience that is both memorable and satisfying in every possible way.

Adventure of Taste & Innovation

The real magic, however, unfolds when you delve into the culinary offerings of Tamarind. The menu, inspired by a fusion of modern Australian, Malaysian, Japanese, and other Asian cuisines, resonates with innovation and authenticity. At Tamarind, it’s not just about the food; it’s about the culinary journey that each dish takes you on. The entrees, though seemingly small in portion, are packed full of fresh flavours and are artistically presented. But if you’re looking for a hearty meal, their generous mains won’t disappoint.

The restaurant’s signature Penang Duck Curry is an undeniable crowd-pleaser. This perennial local favourite has been on the menu since Tamarind’s inception and continues to captivate with its aromatic and robust flavour. Another must-try is the zucchini-wrapped tofu that, according to some, outshines even the tiger prawns. The succulent seared scallops on a leek sauce paired with a flinty Heirloom Pinot Gris is an excellent precursor to heavier dishes.

Tamarind’s innovation extends to its unique offerings like the Whole Barramundi served with a tamarind sauce—a rare find in Australian fine dining restaurants. The restaurant’s commitment to using local produce further elevates the overall dining experience.

The Finishing Touches

If you’re a dessert connoisseur, Tamarind’s beautifully presented and distinctively less sweet desserts will leave you wanting more. The watermelon stacked cake, with its fresh watermelon and rose petal hints, is an indulgence worth trying, even if it leads to a slight pang of guilt.

One might argue that the Tamarind experience isn’t complete without trying their cocktails. The spicy mango cocktail is a perfect kickstart to your night, balancing just the right amount of spice to tickle your taste buds.

The restaurant’s comprehensive and finely curated wine selection, featuring superb Argentinian wines among others, complements their dishes perfectly, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavours. The charm of Tamarind doesn’t end there. It’s also child-friendly with a kids’ menu that appeals to younger palates, making it an ideal dining spot for families.

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    Testimonials from Google Reviews

    Paul Summers

    Google Reviews
    My first time to dine in over twenty years and the food was the usual inspired amalgam of local produce and modern Australian with nods to Malaysian, Japanese and other Asian cuisines. I started with seared scallops on a leek sauce paired with a flinty Heirloom Pinot Gris which prepared my palate for the much heavier and aromatic Penang Duck Curry. This dish has been on the menu since Tamarind opened and remains a perennial local favourite. Against my better judgement I opted for a dessert but the watermelon stacked cake was worth the guilty indiscretion with its fresh watermelon and rose petal hints. I hope I don’t wait another twenty years to return.

    Hoe Bing Lo

    Google Reviews
    The only chef hatted restaurant in Cairns is deserving of their honour. A birthday dinner celebrated over a spicy mango cocktail with just the right kick to start the night off. The zucchini wrapped tofu was sensational, better than the tiger prawns. Then was their signature Penang duck curry. We also had pork belly which was incredibly well done. Literally melt in your mouth well done. Dessert was watermelon cake and caramel tart. Both divine. We will be back.

    Location & Contact Information

    Phone Number

    (07) 4030 8897

    Hours

    Tuesday to Saturday

    Open from 5pm for drinks on the deck

    Dining from 5.30pm – 9.30pm

    Last orders 9.15pm

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