Cairns punches above its weight for food, thanks to proximity to some of Australia's best seafood and a climate that grows tropical produce year-round. You will find everything from cheap backpacker feeds to serious restaurants along the Esplanade and around the marina. The Asian food is particularly good — the city has strong Thai, Japanese, and Vietnamese options. Do not leave without trying the local barramundi and mud crab.
The Esplanade strip is the main dining area for tourists; Sheridan Street and the blocks inland from the Esplanade have better options at lower prices. Saturday morning at Rusty's Markets is as good a breakfast as you will get in Cairns.