Palm Cove’s esplanade is lined with restaurants that would hold their own in any major city. For a small beach village, the dining scene is exceptional — fresh tropical produce, excellent seafood, and chefs who genuinely care about their craft. Here’s where to eat.
Fine Dining
Nu Nu Restaurant
The standout restaurant in Palm Cove. Nu Nu sits right on the esplanade with views over the beach and melaleuca trees. The menu is modern Australian with strong Asian influences — expect dishes like barramundi with green papaya salad, and wagyu with tropical condiments. The wine list is excellent. Book well in advance for weekends.
Vivo Bar & Grill
A local favourite for its relaxed atmosphere and consistently good food. Vivo specialises in wood-fired grills and fresh seafood. The outdoor terrace is one of the best spots on the esplanade for a long dinner. More casual than Nu Nu but still excellent quality.
Casual Dining
Beach Almond
A relaxed, open-air restaurant right on the beach. Beach Almond is known for its Thai-influenced menu and laid-back vibe — perfect for a casual dinner after a big day of activities. The cocktail list is strong and the sunset views are hard to beat.
Apres Beach Bar & Grill
The most casual option on the esplanade. Apres is great for a relaxed lunch, a cold beer after the beach, or a simple dinner with the kids. The menu covers burgers, salads, and grills — nothing fancy, but reliable and good value.
Breakfast & Coffee
Palm Cove has several good breakfast spots along the esplanade. Look for good coffee, fresh juices, and a solid breakfast menu — from açaí bowls to eggs benedict. Arrive early on weekends as popular spots fill up quickly. Outdoor seating under the palms is a lovely way to start the day.
Surf Club Palm Cove
The Palm Cove Surf Club is an underrated option for a casual breakfast or lunch with direct beach views. Prices are reasonable and the atmosphere is genuinely local. A good option if the main esplanade restaurants are full.
Self-Catering
If you’re staying at our Palm Cove apartments, the fully equipped kitchen makes self-catering easy. Palms Supermarket is a 2-minute walk and covers the basics; for a bigger shop, there’s a Coles about a 4-minute drive away. Many guests do a mix — self-catering breakfasts and lunches, dining out for dinner.
Prices and opening hours change — confirm current details with the operator before you go.
About this guide
Written by
Jade Istanbouli
Last checked
August 2026
5 min read · Dining
This guide is written by the MyStayPal FNQ team — local hosts who live and work in Palm Cove and the Cairns region. All recommendations are based on personal experience and regular updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do restaurants in Palm Cove require reservations?
For popular restaurants like Nu Nu and Vivo, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Casual cafes and bars generally don’t require bookings.
Is Palm Cove good for vegetarians?
Yes — most Palm Cove restaurants offer good vegetarian and vegan options. Nu Nu in particular is known for creative plant-based dishes alongside its seafood.
What time do restaurants open and close in Palm Cove?
Most restaurants open for dinner from 5:30–6pm and close by 9:30–10pm. Cafes open from 7am. Palm Cove is not a late-night destination — most venues wind down by 10pm.
Are there supermarkets in Palm Cove?
Palms Supermarket in Palm Cove is a 2-minute walk and covers everyday basics, and there’s a Coles about a 4-minute drive away. For a bigger shop, the Woolworths and Coles in Cairns (25 min south) are worth the trip. Most guests stock up on arrival.
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