3 Best Restaurants in Lord Howe Island, North Coast

Dining at Arajilla Retreat at least once during a stay on Lord Howe Island is a must. The cuisine, which changes daily, uses fish straight from the ocean and lovely homegrown vegetables. Begin with a drink at the cozy bar, decked out just a little like a gentlemen's club with leather armchairs, and then take a seat at the restaurant with its white walls and one dramatic burgundy-color feature wall. The three-course menu changes weekly, based on what is fresh and in season, with the likes of sesame-crusted kingfish often on offer. Desserts are irresistible and may include black sticky rice with lychee sorbet, toasted coconut, and kaffir lime.

In-house guests take precedent over those not staying at the resort, so bookings are essential.

Located at the Lord Howe Island Museum and Visitor’s Centre, this is a popular café with those exploring Lord Howe’s history. There's traditional bacon and eggs for breakfast and light salads for lunch. And it's licensed so you can enjoy a glass of wine at lunchtime. The staff are friendly and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. 

For four generations Pinetrees has been opening its doors to visitors; the fresh meals available here are known widely, even by those who have never traveled to the island, with the lodge's cookbook a big hit with Australians. Pop into the lagoon-front lodge for a buffet lunch of assorted salads with the dish of the day, or drop in for dinner; the local kingfish is always a highlight. Don't miss the signature "fish fry " buffet with kingfish sashimi and sushi followed by a battered kingfish and chips. The five-course menu changes daily, but you can usually expect sushi, soup, fresh fish, lamb, and beef prepared with homegrown herbs and vegetables, followed by delicious desserts. Afternoon tea is also available.