3 min read

Welcome to Darwin, Australia’s most tropical capital city and my hometown! I’m Emma, Affinity’s National Client Manager, and I wanted to celebrate being announced as one of the Northern Territory’s preferred suppliers by putting the spotlight on Darwin.  

As an Affinity travel nurse or midwife, you have a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry, breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant local scene, and tantalizing culinary experiences that Darwin has to offer.  

Proximity across the Timor Sea has allowed South-East Asian flavours to heavily influence Darwin’s palate and culture.  As a coastal city, Darwin also offers some of the best fresh seafood in Australia.  So please, follow me for a tour of some of my favourite dining destinations that will make your time there truly unforgettable.  

Seafood Lovers

Overlooking the Port of Darwin, Crustaceans on the Wharf is located right on the popular Stokes Hill Wharf.  There really is no better place to enjoy alfresco dining with a full view of Darwin Harbor taking in the ocean breeze.

Take your pick from their extensive menu from crocodile, squid, prawns, mud crabs, and famous NT barramundi. Don’t like seafood? Don’t worry, Crustaceans have a great non-seafood-based menu including a pretty impressive Kids Menu.   

Feeling brave? I absolutely love their NT chili mud crab – ordered by the kilo!

Family friendly

Open only in the Dry Season (May to October), De La Plage is a hidden gem set in front of the Darwin Surf Life Saving Club overlooking Casuarina Beach.   

Set yourself down on one of the available bean bags, lounges or hammocks and enjoy the sunshine, ocean views and quality local produce.  De La Plage is best suited to those wanting a more casual dining experience amongst the palm and casuarina trees.  They hold weekly menu specials, like fish and chips every Friday night with local caught wild Barra.   

Sunday Sessions are enjoyed best at De La Plage with local artists and musicians on show, breathtaking sunsets and ice-cold beverages.  

High End

Owned by renowned chef Jimmy Shu, Hanuman restaurant is a longtime favorite for locals, serving an exciting mix of Indian, Thai and Nyonyan flavours in an elegant setting. 

Located at the bottom of the Darwin Entertainment Centre, in the heart of the city, Hanuman offers a unique dining experience, the perfect place to enjoy one of their signature cocktails.   

Why not start here at Hanuman before exploring the local nightlife that Mitchell Street has to offer?  A Hanuman favourite is hard to pick, but if I had to recommend one, you’ll really love the Meen Moolie barramundi fillets.   

Local fave 

For a taste of Mediterranean, Spanish and African flavours, Moorish Café does it best.  I have enjoyed many, many memorable meals and celebrations at Moorish over the years.  

Located in the heart of Darwin city, Moorish Café has been wowing locals for 17 years with their mouthwatering tapas, dips, Moroccan tagines, and homemade desserts, all made with locally sourced produce.  

The atmosphere is eclectic, yet relaxed and friendly, and service is always excellent. I personally love the Berber spiced kangaroo with tomato jam, North African meatballs with chermoula and sticky date pudding.  

Iconic

Darwin is renowned for its lively market scene where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant local atmosphere and feast on locally produced cuisine. Not as busy as the sunset Mindil Beach Markets, Parap Markets is a must-visit and very popular with locals looking to avoid the crowds.  

Located in the centre of the Parap Village from 8am every Saturday (even in Monsoon season), you will find the very best laksa, paw paw salad and other exotic South-East Asian fare. You can also find loads of arts, crafts, clothing and jewelry stalls to explore.   

Back when I was a resident, I could never go past the Indonesian lamb lontong (compressed rice cakes) with peanut sauce and a freshly squeezed lime and honey juice to beat the Darwin heat.   

From the sparkling turquoise waters of the Timor Sea to the lush greenery of surrounding national parks, Darwin has something for everyone, and I know you’ll have a great time enjoying all it has to offer.

Don’t take my word for it, contact your consultant to learn about the nursing and midwifery jobs we have available now in Darwin.  

Apply today