15 BEST Magnetic Island Restaurants & Cafes (2023)

In this guide, discover the 15 Best Magnetic Island Restaurants & Cafes, including spots for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks!

With a wide variety of cuisines ranging from delicious freshly caught seafood, which is a part of almost every menu around Magnetic Island, to authentic Thai, Mexican, and Italian, no one will leave the island hungry.

Watch the sunset and enjoy a cocktail at one of the many beachfront restaurants in Horseshoe Bay or enjoy an interactive breakfast with Koalas and other native animals in a true Australian outback setting.

This Magnetic Island Restaurants Guide will help you narrow down your choices, explore what different restaurants all around the island have to offer, and hopefully help you save time on that very important decision-making process of, ‘Where should we eat?’

15 BEST MAGNETIC ISLAND RESTAURANTS

There are many cafes and restaurants Magnetic Island offers for you to try while visiting Magnetic Island, each offering a variety of local, fresh, and healthy food to suit everyone’s tastebuds.

It can sometimes be a little overwhelming to decide where to get a meal that is going to fuel your body with enough energy to go and explore a new place – I hope this post will assist!

So without further ado, here is your guide to the 15 Best Restaurants and Cafes on Magnetic Island!

THE EARLY BIRD CAFE

Located right along the popular Horseshoe Bay cafe strip, this is the perfect place to sit down and enjoy a delicious breakfast while gazing out upon the crystal-clear ocean.

There is a reason why Early Bird Cafe is mentioned as one of the best restaurants on Magnetic Island on multiple platforms. 

It is owned by a lovely Italian couple that makes sure the food they serve is fresh and contains only the best locally sourced ingredients.

There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available to cater to anyone’s individual needs and tastebuds. The Early Bird’s menu will leave no one disappointed while the views will leave everybody stunned.

• Open daily from 7:00 am – 1:30 pm
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/theearlyb
• Instagram: @theearlyb

CAFE NOURISH

This is one of the best Magnetic Island cafes with beautiful views over Horseshoe Bay beach, serving Fair Trade Organic coffee, a variety of teas and Chai as well as smoothies, freshly squeezed juices, delicious wraps, sandwiches, cakes, and other mouth-watering treats.

Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available and always served with a heartwarmingly friendly smile.

On the hunt for the best coffee Magnetic Island offers? This is definitely a great candidate!

If you are looking for a relaxing place to sit down, unwind, and let the sun kiss your salty skin after a morning swim in the beautiful turquoise waters of Horseshoe Bay, Cafe Nourish is the spot for you.

• Open daily from 7:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/cafenourishhsb
• Instagram: @cafenourish

BAREFOOT ART FOOD & WINE

Barefoot Art Food & Wine is a multi-award-winning Magnetic Island restaurant and a must-visit while on the island.

The beautiful views and warm atmosphere of this restaurant make it a great venue for a romantic holiday date night as well as an important business dinner or a big family get-together.

The menu includes an extensive wine list to go with the high-quality seafood platters and gourmet desserts.

The service is excellent and the in-house art gallery featuring the work of local artists complements the wonderful dining experience.

• Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, and vegan options are limited.
• Open Thu – Mon from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm & 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Closed Tue & Wed
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Barefoot-Art-Food-Wine

SCALLYWAGS CAFE

Scallywags Cafe is a fairly new Magnetic Island cafe located in the very heart of Nelly Bay.

On their menu are delicious healthy meals and fair trade coffees in a fun-filled, family-friendly atmosphere with a theatrical pirate crew.

Live music and fire shows during dinner Magnetic Island ensure a great vibe while enjoying their excellent food.

With plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, everybody’s needs will be satisfied.

• Open daily for Magnetic Island breakfast and lunch from 7 am – 2 pm.
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/p/Scallywags-Cafe-100052455681051

MARLIN BAR

Looking for live music and a chill vibe paired with generous portions of delicious food? This is where you want to go.

The variety of meals is excellent and caters to every appetite and you won’t be disappointed with their drink menu either.

Whether you fancy a cold beer, a glass of wine, or a tropical cocktail, the bartender at Marlin Bar has got you. Wednesday is Steak Night and Thursday night is Parmy Night!

Don’t feel like seafood? Try their juicy burgers, served on a toasted brioche bun with hot, crunchy chips.

Oh, and you can bring your pup too because dogs are welcome, and you can enjoy the tasty meals and good vibes together with your furry friend.

Just make sure you call ahead and book a table as it can get very busy, especially on the weekends.

• Open Mon – Fri from 10:00 am – Late & Sat – Sun from 8:00 am – Late
• Price: $$
• Website: www.themarlinbar.com.au
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/marlinbar.horseshoebay/

NOODIES ON THE BEACH

Looking for somewhere to watch the sunset over Horseshoe Bay while sipping on an exotic cocktail? This little Mexican restaurant on Magnetic Island will not disappoint.

Buy a jug of any cocktail or margarita and you’ll get to enjoy it while wearing a free sombrero!

Noodies on the Beach are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and besides being known for their cocktails and margaritas, their food and coffee are quite the treat as well.

Try the garlic prawns or the paella as they are highly recommended by fellow travelers for a reason. Just give them a call upfront and secure yourself a table at this fun place as it is only open on weekends and books out fast.

I guarantee you don’t want to miss this place on your list of Magnetic Island restaurants to try!

• Open Mon – Fri from 11.00 am to 8.00 pm & Sat and Sun from 8:30 am to 8.30 pm
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Noodies-on-the-Beach

MAMMA ROMA

Italian Restaurant Pizza and Cafe Mamma Roma serve authentic Italian dishes with lots of vegetarian, vegan as well as gluten-free options available. Sit back with a glass of wine and enjoy live music every weekend.

Make sure to ask for their daily specials at Mamma Roms and I highly recommend treating yourself to a piece of Tiramisu after your Pizza or Pasta.

You were out exploring or at the beach all day, you deserve it.

• Open Tue – Sun from 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/MammaRoma

THAI AGAIN

You have already been on Magnetic Island for a couple of days and are looking for something other than seafood to change things up a little.

Thai Again is known to be one of the coziest and casual restaurants with reasonable prices, serving 100% fresh authentic Thai cuisine and catering to a wide range of dietary requirements from vegetarian to vegan as well as gluten-free. Takeaway is also available.

To sum up, it’s the best Thai restaurant Magnetic Island offers, and possibly in Queensland!

• Open daily from 5:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Closed on Mondays.
• Price: $$
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Thai-Again

BREAKFAST WITH THE KOALAS + BUSH TUCKER BRUNCH

This is by far one of the most unique Magnetic Island restaurants for breakfast and brunch!

Every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday you can enjoy your first meal of the day within a scene typical to outback Australia.

During the course of the morning, you will be greeted by native Australian animals including the koalas Pebbles and Amaroo, and Harry the wombat.

It is more than just a breakfast, it is an interactive experience that will teach you about sustainability principles and will connect you with a team of great people who have a true passion for wildlife and Magnetic Island.

The menu is seasonal and offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. Vegan options are limited, but it’s still a fantastic breakfast Magnetic Island!

• Wed, Fri & Sun from 8:30 am – 10:00 am.
• Prices: From $70 (children under 2 free of charge)
• Website: www.bungalowbay.com.au/breakfast-with-the-koalas

SOS – STUFFED ON SEAFOOD

SOS – Stuffed on Seafood is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Magnetic Island. With an impressive selection of fresh seafood, this place will definitely satisfy your cravings for seafood.

You’ll be greeted with themed tables, friendly service, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever tasted.

Among the best dishes, you’ll find crumbed barramundi and chips, lemon and pepper calamari, seafood spring rolls, and even fish burger and chips.

It’s the perfect place to dine with family or enjoy a lovely night out with your significant other. One thing’s for sure, you won’t be disappointed with what SOS – Stuffed on Seafood has to offer.

The restaurant is open from 11 am till 8 pm but they don’t take bookings, so I recommend coming early!

• Daily from 11.00 am to 8.00 pm
• Website: www.stuffedonseafood.com.au
• Facebook: SOS – Stuffed On Seafood

GRANITE MAGNETIC ISLAND

Granite Magnetic Island is a must-visit spot for foodies looking for a dining experience you won’t easily forget.

Here, you’ll find pizza, small treats like pulled pork bao buns, prawn cutlets, and succulent desserts such as cheesecake or ice cream.

What’s more, their gluten-free menu is exactly what you dream of with special diet requirements. Delicious fried chicken, Mediterranean lamb skewers, and lemon and lime meringue are only some of the best GF dishes you can get!

But what really sets Granite Magnetic Island apart from the rest is the friendly service.

The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the decor is minimal yet beautiful with views over Maggie Island’s National Park. Can you think of a better Magnetic Island restaurant for a nice meal?

• Mon to Sat from 8.00 am to 8.30 pm
• Website: www.granitemagneticisland.com

BAKED ON MAGGIE BAR AND GRILL

If you’re looking for an incredible restaurant experience in Magnetic Island, then Baked On Maggie Bar and Grill is a great option.

The staff are simply lovely, the food is amazing, and the decor is cozy, perfect for a date night or a nice moment with friends or family.

The most ordered dishes are steaks, lasagna, the garden salad, and the fully baked burger, and I couldn’t recommend all these enough, with a fresh smoothie to wash it down!

Overall, it’s one of the best restaurants in Magnetic Island and I’m confident you’ll have a great time here.

• Mon to Friday from 8.00 am to 10.00 pm and Sat & Sun from 11.00 am to 10.00 pm
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/bakedonmaggie/

BOARDWALK RESTAURANT AND BAR

Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views of Magnetic Island.

When you get there, you’ll immediately be impressed by the friendly service and the atmosphere, as well as the views.

While it’s open all day long, I recommend coming for lunch to fully enjoy the views, plus their menu is just exquisite. Try the fish tacos, the classic cheeseburger, the steak sandwich, and of course their draught beer.

The best part? Their desserts and wines are outstanding, and you’ll have such an incredible time at Boardwalk Restaurant!

All in all, it is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy tasty food, great drinks, and a breathtaking view.

• Open daily from 7.00 am to 10.00 pm
• Website: www.peppers.com.au/blue-on-blue/dining/

STAGE DOOR THEATRE RESTAURANT

Next on our list of best restaurants in Magnetic Island is much more than an eatery, it’s an experience!

That’s right, the Stage Door Theatre Restaurant is a venue with a funny show and excellent food.

You’ll start the evening with some delicious starters and then proceed onto the main course with the show beginning.

It’s a great spot to celebrate with family and friends, and if you’re in for fun and relax, this is one of the best things to do in Magnetic Island!

The show is hilarious, and the laughter just keeps on coming during the meal! It may be a bit more expensive than other restaurants in the area, but trust me – it’s worth it.

• Open Friday and Saturday from 5.00 pm to 12.00 am
• Website: www.stagedoortheatre.com.au/
• Facebook: Stage Door Theatre Restaurant

UP THE GARDEN RESTAURANT

Last on this list of best places to eat in Magnetic Island is Up The Garden, which specializes in classic dishes that are not only delicious but also look great!

You’ll love your meal that’s cooked to perfection, and this is simply an excellent value for money without sacrificing quality.

From baked brie with honey and walnuts to couscous salad with prawns and even chicken teriyaki and seafood platters, you’re surely in for a treat.

The restaurant is only open from 6 to 8.00 pm during the week but in case you visit Magnetic Island on the weekend, it’s open for breakfast from 8 am to 10 pm, and you don’t want to miss it!

• Open Mon – Fri from 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm & Sat from 8.00 to 10.00 am & 6.00 to 8.00 pm
• Website: www.amarooonmandalay.com/dining-at-up-the-garden-path/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/Upthegardenpathrestaurant/

HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND

Magnetic Island is an isolated island located 8km offshore from the coastal town of Townsville in Queensland, Australia.

The best way to reach the island from Townsville is with the Magnetic Island Ferry which takes just 25 minutes on the passenger ferry or 45 minutes on the car ferry.

I have put together a complete guide that includes everything you need to know about the Magnetic Island Ferry to help you plan your trip ahead of time.

FULL BLOG POST: HOW TO GET TO MAGNETIC ISLAND

THINGS TO DO ON MAGNETIC ISLAND

Now that you know where to eat in Magnetic Island and the best Magnetic Island food, you’ll want to discover all of the best things to do and places to see!

MUST-READ: BEST THINGS TO DO ON MAGNETIC ISLAND

MAGNETIC ISLAND MAP

WHAT TO PACK FOR MAGNETIC ISLAND

When visiting Magnetic Island, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

FINAL THOUGHTS – RESTAURANTS ON MAGNETIC ISLAND

I hope you enjoyed reading this best restaurants Magnetic Island article and if you have any questions about Magnetic Island Restaurants, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can!

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations for the best breakfast Magnetic Island to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

THANKS FOR READING

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