With rich soils and sun-drenched days, Bowen is surrounded by some of the world’s finest produce. So, it’s no wonder that its restaurants and cafes serve up some fine fare.

Here are five of our favourites, in no particular order.

1. Grand View Hotel

You’ll feel like a local as soon as you step inside. And once you sample the menu, you’ll want to move in. The lunch and dinner menu consists of pub style favourites with a modern twist – see the picture above! Fresh local seafood, prime cuts of meat and seasonal fruit and vegetables all find an enlightened home on the Grand View Hotel menu. There’s a lot of history in this pub so step inside and become part of the story.

2. The Cove Restaurant

Authentic Chinese delights have found a home in this resort restaurant overlooking the beach. Open for lunch and dinner, we love arriving before sunset because the view is irreplaceable. From the sizzling garlic king prawns to the Chinese roast duck, you’ll find all your favourite Chinese dishes plus some authentic specialised meals available for an in-restaurant feast or to takeaway.

3. Horseshoe Bay Cafe

An Egg Benni Roll in one hand, a coffee that makes you say, ‘Mmmmm’ in the other and glorious Horseshoe Bay morning views out front. That’s breakfast done. The Cajun Chicken Burger for lunch sounds good. What about the herb crusted Atlantic salmon and a killer cocktail to the beat of some live music for dinner? Welcome to Horseshoe Bay Café.

4. North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club

A restaurant, bar and outdoor beer garden with 360 degree views of the ocean and Bowen’s beautiful boat-filled harbour. Watch out for themed nights like Mexican and Curry nights. The friendly club environment is open to all visitors. Enjoy a drink and take in the memorabilia and history of this club.

5. The Original North Australian Hotel

Long wooden tables, wide open windows, tantalising cocktails and a wood-fired menu that will make your mouth water – The Original North Australian Hotel offers pub grub with pizazz! There are great traditions like raffle nights and Sunday roasts on offer and the option to takeaway if you want to head to the beach with a picnic rug.