The Sunshine Coast is home to a thriving food scene that’s perfect for groups eager to dine together. From riverfront restaurants and beachfront bistros to breweries and hinterland retreats, there’s something for every palate. For larger groups, organizing a group outing is easy with a bus hire. This ensures everyone arrives together and enjoys a seamless experience. Here are the top 12 must-visit places for food lovers on the Sunshine Coast.
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1. Spirit House
Nestled in Yandina, Spirit House offers an award-winning dining experience with modern Asian cuisine set among lush tropical gardens. Groups can enjoy a shared banquet featuring fragrant curries, wok-fried specialties, and bold Thai flavors. The relaxed outdoor setting, combined with cooking school options, makes it an ideal venue for large gatherings seeking both a feast and an immersive culinary adventure in a stunning Sunshine Coast location.
2. Rice Boi
Located on the Mooloolah River, Rice Boi is a lively waterfront spot renowned for its Asian street food-inspired menu. Groups can dig into shared plates of bao, dumplings, and noodles in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for social dining. With craft cocktails and river views, Rice Boi delivers a casual yet energetic experience, making it a go-to choice for groups eager to combine flavorful dishes with a buzzing coastal vibe.
3. The Doonan
Set amid lush hinterland surrounds, The Doonan is a sprawling dining venue offering wood-fired pizzas, hearty pub fare, and an extensive drinks list. Its open lawns, communal tables, and relaxed beer-garden style seating make it especially suited for large groups. Guests can enjoy live music, craft beers, and locally sourced dishes, all within a spacious setting that blends rustic charm with a warm Sunshine Coast hospitality.
4. Pier 33
Pier 33, overlooking the Mooloolah River, serves coastal-inspired cuisine in a stylish, nautical setting. With fresh seafood platters, modern Australian dishes, and a broad drinks selection, it’s an ideal spot for groups wanting to enjoy long lunches or sunset dinners. The venue’s light-filled interiors and expansive deck create a relaxed yet polished atmosphere perfect for group celebrations and memorable food experiences by the water.
5. Noosa Boathouse
Anchored on the Noosa River, Noosa Boathouse offers three levels of dining, bars, and stunning waterfront views. Groups can savor fresh seafood, modern Australian classics, and local produce in a vibrant riverside atmosphere. With options ranging from casual bites to shared seafood platters, the venue caters well to large gatherings, making it a standout Sunshine Coast choice for food lovers looking to dine together in style.
6. Bistro C
Bistro C is a Noosa beachfront institution, known for its modern, coastal-inspired menu and unbeatable ocean views. Large groups can enjoy everything from fresh seafood to seasonal, locally sourced dishes, paired with refreshing cocktails. The open, airy layout and relaxed yet refined vibe make it perfect for shared dining experiences. For groups seeking the quintessential Sunshine Coast beachfront meal, Bistro C remains a timeless favorite.
7. Your Mates Brewing Co.
A Sunshine Coast staple, Your Mates Brewing Co. combines craft beer excellence with hearty, group-friendly food. Known for its playful branding and award-winning beers, the venue offers a laid-back, communal setting perfect for large groups. Visitors can enjoy burgers, pizzas, and brewery exclusives while soaking up the lively atmosphere. It’s an ideal stop for food-loving groups looking to pair quality brews with satisfying meals.
8. The Surf Club Mooloolaba
The Surf Club Mooloolaba delivers a classic coastal dining experience with unbeatable beachfront views. Offering generous portions of seafood, steaks, and pub-style favorites, it’s well suited for large groups seeking casual, hearty dining. With indoor and outdoor seating, plus easy access to the beach, groups can enjoy relaxed meals while taking in the sights of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most iconic shorelines.
9. Rickys River Bar & Restaurant
Rickys, perched on the Noosa River, combines modern European cuisine with fresh local produce. Groups can indulge in refined shared plates, seasonal seafood, and an extensive wine list while enjoying panoramic river views. The elegant setting and attentive service make it ideal for group celebrations, offering both sophistication and Sunshine Coast charm in a riverside location that leaves a lasting impression.
10. The Tamarind
Tucked within Spicers Tamarind Retreat in Maleny, The Tamarind specializes in contemporary Thai cuisine with a refined twist. Groups can enjoy multi-course banquets highlighting bold flavors, fresh herbs, and seasonal ingredients. The serene rainforest backdrop adds a tranquil ambiance, making it an exceptional choice for gatherings that want a mix of gourmet dining and a uniquely Sunshine Coast hinterland setting.
11. Orléans Restaurant and Bar
Orléans brings a touch of New Orleans and French-inspired flair to the Sunshine Coast dining scene. Groups can enjoy indulgent dishes such as duck, seafood, and spiced creations, all paired with a curated drinks list. Its moody, stylish interiors and lively atmosphere make it well suited for group dining, offering a vibrant blend of classic European cooking with bold, Southern U.S. influences.
12. The Boatshed Restaurant
Situated on the Maroochy River, The Boatshed Restaurant offers fresh seafood and modern Australian cuisine with spectacular water views. Large groups can enjoy share plates, seasonal mains, and a relaxed riverside setting perfect for long lunches or evening gatherings. With outdoor terraces and a reputation for quality dining, it’s an ideal destination for groups wanting to savor Sunshine Coast flavors in a scenic, welcoming space.
Ready to Savor the Sunshine Coast?
The Sunshine Coast truly is a culinary paradise, offering a diverse array of dining experiences from beachside bistros to hinterland havens. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, exotic Asian flavors, or hearty pub fare, these twelve establishments promise unforgettable meals for any group. To ensure your culinary adventure is stress-free and enjoyable from start to finish, consider a reliable bus hire to transport your group efficiently and comfortably between these fantastic food destinations.