Step into the idyllic Sunshine Coast Hinterland township of Maleny, where lush walking trails, putting greens, and majestic liquidambar trees provide the backdrop to a hotspot of foodie goodness. Before you lace up the hiking boots and chase the nearby views of the Glass House Mountains, it’s time to tuck into freshly baked muffins, chilled local brews, and award-winning gelato. We hope you’re feeling hungry!
The Tamarind
The Tamarind, Spicers Tamarind
Tuck into the mouthwatering modern Asian fare at The Tamarind – an award-winning restaurant nestled amongst lush gardens and forestry near the iconic Gardners Falls. Whether you feel like just stopping in for a meal, or spending the night at the onsite luxurious Spicers Tamarind Retreat, you’ll be in for a moreish treat of umami flavours. Dig into steamed chicken dumplings, Chu Chee curry of slow-cooked wagyu brisket, pandan coconut parfait, and more.
Spill Wine
You’ll find plenty to love amongst the intimate surrounds of Spill Wine, a boutique bar and wine shop located in Maleny’s main street. The selection here has been carefully curated to incorporate a combination of quality Australian and international winemakers, with a particular spotlight on keeping things sustainable.
You won’t just be in for a tipple, either. Spill Wine also offers a mouthwatering snack list and regular Wednesday ‘Wine-Down’ dinners. Enjoy baked scallops with nduja butter, duck pate eclair, and a unique take on ‘Fish & Chips’ in the form of marinated white anchovies with sauce vierge and crisps.
Maleny Food Co
Maleny Food Co
Mini market vibes abound in Maleny Food Co, where delectable produce lines the walls and award-winning gelato is freshly churned for your consumption. With hundreds of cheeses, an assortment of cured meats, salads and more, your cravings will be SORTED here (did we mention you can even pre-order a picnic box to take home with you?). Alternatively, pull up a chair in the dining area to soak up the atmosphere for breakfast or lunch. We recommend choosing from the fromagerie, where fresh Burrata is served with toasted focaccia alongside aged balsamic & olive oil, and fresh pate/terrine is surrounded by tasty pickles, house-made chutney and sourdough bread.
Monica’s
Local institution Monica’s has a menu to keep everyone happy – whether you’re chasing a breakfast plate of vegetarian goodness, or scrambled eggs with extra bacon. Escape the bustle and head to the upstairs dining section of the cafe, decked out with trendy art pieces and chic decor, or settle back amongst the outdoor, streetside dining set-up (where your dog is most welcome). Servings are plentiful, and you’ll find a fabulous drinks menu to wash everything down. Hint: the freshly baked muffins are a real winner here.
Frank Food & Wine
Brunch reigns supreme at Frank Food & Wine, where you’ll find an all-day (till 2pm) menu celebrating everything from eggs, mushrooms, greens, and more. Dine your way through lighter options like toasted crumpets, all the way up to heavier-hitting items like a fancy chicken schnitzel with Caesar celery slaw and pecorino. If you’re craving a toastie or a slice of tart to complement your morning coffee, don’t forget to peruse the extra offerings behind the deli cabinet... where it’s first in, best dressed.
Brouhaha Maleny
Brouhaha
Australia’s Craft Beer Capital is well and truly humming in Maleny, thanks to Brouhaha. Head straight to the bar to pick up a chilled glass of your favourite brew or book a table to enjoy the experience with your mates. The crew at Brouhaha knows that a beer goes down best with a decent feed, boasting an impressive kitchen full of moreish snacks, small plates, and larger fare to help keep the hunger at bay. Sample menu items include irresistible pork scratchings, fish coated in a Brouhaha beer batter, and house-made ricotta gnocchi with truffled mushrooms and goat cheese. Cheers!
Maleny Cheese
Maleny Cheese Picnic
Satisfy your cravings and carve off some time to spend in the delicious surrounds of Maleny Cheese. This family-run business celebrates the low food miles of its products, which range from (you guessed it) a variety of cheeses to flavoured yoghurt. Make tracks for the farm shop to load up on goodies for the drive home, or stay a little longer at their paddock-to-plate cafe, where classic bites like creamy baked brie with crusty bread await. If you’re headed out for a picnic, you’ll find it hard to turn down Maleny Cheese’s flavoursome pots of gourmet yoghurt, or their mouthwatering club cheddar range.
