Toowoomba has quietly built a dining scene worth travelling for. From long lunches and beautiful shared plates to a great steak, handmade pasta or a relaxed pub meal, there are plenty of places to eat when you're visiting the Garden City.

As locals, these are some of the Toowoomba restaurants we love and recommend when someone asks us where to eat. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or simply looking for somewhere new for dinner, consider this our Harry and Kit guide to some of the best restaurants in Toowoomba.

Loulaki

For Mediterranean-inspired dining and a table made for sharing, Loulaki is always a beautiful choice. The menu centres around shared plates with charcoal-cooked meats, seafood, seasonal vegetables, grains, cheeses and plenty of olive oil, all with a contemporary take on Mediterranean flavours.

The atmosphere is just as lovely as the food, with an intimate dining room and outdoor space beneath the olive tree and festoon lights. It is the kind of place that works equally well for a long lunch with friends, date night or a special dinner.

Bergen

Bergen is one of those Toowoomba restaurants that feels special without feeling overly formal. Located at Walton Stores on Ruthven Street, the focus is on simple, seasonal food and quality produce, with a menu that moves between modern Australian and European influences.

We love it for a long lunch or dinner when you want somewhere a little more elevated while still feeling relaxed. Pair your meal with something from the wine list and settle in.

Char House

If steak is what you have in mind, Char House is one to add to the list. This Toowoomba steakhouse centres its menu around premium Australian beef cooked over an open-flame charcoal grill, alongside oysters, house-made pasta, French-inspired sauces and an extensive wine and cocktail offering.

It is a great option for a celebration, date night or dinner when you feel like something a little more indulgent.

Sofra

A longtime Toowoomba favourite, Sofra serves traditional and modern Turkish dishes from its Margaret Street restaurant. Expect generous flavours, plenty of herbs and spices, grilled meats, vegetables and classic Turkish dishes designed to be shared around the table.

Sofra is particularly good for groups, families and relaxed dinners where everyone can order a little of everything. The restaurant also caters for a range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options.

The Royal Hotel

For something more relaxed, The Royal on Ruthven is a classic Toowoomba pub worth knowing about. The family-owned hotel serves homestyle food and pub favourites, with everything from a good chicken parmi to fresh fish and house-made sauces.

You can settle into the bistro or head outside to the beer garden, making it an easy option for a casual lunch, dinner with the family or a meal with a group of friends.

Piccolo Papà

Sometimes all you want is really good Italian, and Piccolo Papà delivers exactly that. Tucked away in Duggan Lane, the restaurant specialises in true Neapolitan-style pizza and fresh pasta made in-house each day.

The menu moves between Italian classics and more contemporary dishes, using a mix of quality local produce and imported Italian ingredients. It is relaxed, lively and a great option for an easy lunch or dinner with family and friends.

Gip's Restaurant

Part of the charm of Gip's is its setting. Located within one of Toowoomba's historic buildings and surrounded by beautiful gardens, it feels a little removed from the bustle of the city despite being close to the centre of town.

The menu has a strong modern Australian influence, making Gip's a lovely choice for lunch, dinner, cocktails or a special occasion. If the weather is right, the garden setting makes the experience particularly beautiful.

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