Byron foodie adventure

Set within 45 acres of lush, low-lying rainforest, the 5-star suites at the Byron at Byron have got relaxation written all over them!

Overlooking the lush green trees and lotus flower filled stream, I could feel the stresses of life wash away as I settled in to a weekend of tranquility. And all this seclusion and still only a 5-minute drive into Byron. The grounds are just gorgeous and the windy walk through the trees to Meditation Point is well worth the stroll. Especially if you’re in romance land with a lover! Or continue along the track to Tallow Beach, a gentle 10-minute stroll from the resort.

The room had all the 5-star usuals blended with everyday conveniences and was quite spacious compared to the typical one bedder including a large sofa, separate dining area and roomy bathroom with a deep, freestanding bath tub. My favourite feature was it had two enclosed balconies on either side of the apartment – one facing in toward the boardwalks set across the creek beds, and the other affording a beautiful rainforest vista.

For food lovers, the restaurant is a local treasure. Under the creative genius of Head Chef Gavin Hughes, the menu commands use of locally sourced, fresh produce. If you’re there on a Thursday morning you can join Gavin on a visit to

Flat Dried Fruits at the Byron Weekend Markets

the farmers market – an impressive exercise in community-based sustainable agriculture.

I was there on a weekend however, and the Byron Markets were well worth the trip. I recommend wrapping your lips around an organic doughnut and tasting sugar cane juice. The markets stock a variety of local fare including everything from Ewingsdale coffee to flat dried fruits. The vendors pride themselves on serving up the very best gourmet delights using organic ingredients. It’s also a great place to pick up regional fruits and grains.

Top 5 Foodie Spots in Byron

The locals hanging out at Top Shop

The Top Shop
Head to the Lighthouse and stop off at The Top Shop for arguably the best coffee in Byron. Its relaxed, urban surfie atmosphere makes for the perfect setting to sit out on the sun-drenched lawn and have a yarn with the locals.

The Green Garage
Shop for over 200 local products at The Green Garage including a wide range of world-famous Byron Bay Cookies. Browse the meats, pastas and crispy green vegetables or enjoy a coffee and baguette whilst lazing on a beanbag or hammock.

The Owl and Pussy Cat
Grab the tapas menu, order a drink and dance by the light of the moon. The food here is to die for and there’s always a great live set playing to create a groovy mood. My mouth-watering pick of the tapas is the Grilled Hervey Bay scallops with chorizo.

Bayleaf Café
Be seen at by far the coolest breakfast spot in town. The popularity of this place for such a small venue makes the vibe buzzing with locals and tourists alike. Coffee is brewed in-house and its strong!

Bohemia at Byron
Indulge in a slice of cheesecake or fruit tart and watch the world go by. The Bohemia Café is perfect for people watching along Byron’s bustling Jonson Street and is the ideal place to duck in for coffee and cake.