Kangaroo Island: A Foodie’s Paradise
With its dramatic limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise seas and eucalyptus-scented forests teeming with koalas, Australia’s third-largest island offers an unspoiled wilderness destination. However, visitors to Kangaroo Island (commonly known as ‘KI’) are often just as enchanted by its unique food experiences on a KI food safari. Read on for our top foodie recommendations in this incredible location.
Kangaroo Island, located 112km off mainland South Australia, is celebrated for its local artisan produce. From botanical gins to gourmet sheep cheeses, this destination emphasizes ethical food production. Furthermore, new restaurants and cellar door expansions, alongside a new airport terminal, make it easier than ever to experience the culinary delights of KI. It’s a crucial time for the island as it continues to recover from the 2019/20 bushfire season; visitors are encouraged to support local businesses now more than ever.
KI Food Safaris: Discover the Best
If you’re short on time, consider joining a one-day food safari that highlights the island’s most delicious food and wine experiences. Local operators, including Kangaroo Island Trails, Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours, and Exceptional Kangaroo Island, offer diverse itineraries. You can enjoy everything from Ferguson lobster to honey produced by Ligurian bees, believed to be the last remaining pure stock of bees in the world.
For those seeking a deeper culinary adventure, the ultra-luxe Southern Ocean Lodge hosts a week-long food safari each winter led by renowned Australian foodie Maggie Beer, taking participants on an unforgettable gourmet journey across the island.
Enjoy Lunch at Sunset Food & Wine
As Kangaroo Island’s first recipient of a chef’s hat, Sunset Food & Wine showcases the best of KI dining. British expat Jack Ingram, previously Executive Chef at Southern Ocean Lodge, curates a seasonally changing menu with local ingredients. You can find dishes ranging from Southrock lamb rump to handmade ricotta gnocchi, along with an enticing six-course degustation menu for those undecided. While it’s known for stunning sunsets, this spot is also perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
Indulge in Seafood at The Oyster Farm Shop
The Oyster Farm Shop at American River is an institution on Kangaroo Island, famous for its fresh, sustainable seafood. Highlights include oysters, marron, abalone, and King George whiting. Expect a casual dining experience—this self-styled ‘farmgate’ serves delicious dishes on disposable platters. Located across from the American River, it’s easy to spot the turquoise shack where the oysters are farmed.
Shop Local at the Kangaroo Island Farmers Market
If you’re interested in self-catering, align your visit with the first Sunday of the month when Penneshaw Oval hosts a bustling farmers market. Here, you can find and sample an incredible selection of local produce including delicious chutneys, freshly-picked vegetables, and renowned wines. Arrive early, as the market concludes by 1pm, ensuring you don’t miss out on the local offerings.
Experience Local Spirits at Kangaroo Island Spirits
While South Australia is well-known for its exceptional wines, it is also home to remarkable small-batch gins. Kangaroo Island’s first and only gin distillery gained acclaim by winning awards for Australia’s best gin at the Melbourne International Spirits competition in 2016 and 2017. The gins are crafted using locally foraged ingredients, such as native juniper and lemon myrtle. Guests can enjoy free tastings at the rustic Cygnet River cellar door, open daily except Tuesdays.
Explore Kangaroo Island’s Wineries
Visit Kangaroo Island’s excellent wineries and experience the best of the island’s viticulture. Known for its superb varietals, Kangaroo Island hosts more than a dozen wineries, some of which are now open to the public. Among the top places to visit is pioneering winery Dudley Wines, featuring an updated cellar door in Cuttlefish Bay. Their wines pair beautifully with the fantastic pizzas available. Furthermore, Bay of Shoals offers delicious wines complemented by a platter from an extensive menu. Additionally, Islander Estate features a cozy tasting room in Cygnet Bay, while Kangaroo Island Brewery in Kingscote offers tastings from Friday to Sunday for beer lovers.
