Get Your Fill of Cheap Seafood in Cairns: Top Spots to Try

If you're a seafood lover traveling to Cairns, Australia, you're in for a treat. Cairns is a city known for its delicious and fresh seafood, and the best part is that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy it. In this article, we'll share with you some of the top spots for affordable seafood in Cairns, tips for enjoying seafood on a budget, must-try cheap seafood dishes, and how to eat seafood sustainably and affordably.

Cairns is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Australia, and many of them offer affordable options. Whether you're in the mood for fish and chips, prawns, or calamari, you can find it all without spending a fortune. From local seafood markets to floating restaurants, there are plenty of options to choose from that won't leave you feeling guilty about your spending.

If you're on a budget, don't worry. There are plenty of ways to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank. You can save money by ordering smaller portions, sharing dishes with friends, or opting for seafood specials. By following a few simple tips, you can enjoy the best seafood in Cairns without overspending.

Key Takeaways

• Cairns is a great destination for seafood lovers on a budget.
• There are plenty of affordable seafood options in Cairns, from local seafood markets to floating restaurants.
• By following a few simple tips, you can enjoy the best seafood in Cairns without overspending.

Top Spots for Affordable Seafood in Cairns

If you're looking for delicious seafood in Cairns without breaking the bank, you're in luck! Cairns has plenty of great options for affordable seafood that won't leave you feeling guilty about your spending. Here are some of our top picks:

1. The Raw Prawn

Located on the Cairns Esplanade, The Raw Prawn is a local favourite for fresh and affordable seafood. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including prawns, oysters, fish and chips, and more. They also offer daily specials, so be sure to ask your server what's on offer.

2. The Pier Bar

The Pier Bar is another great spot for cheap seafood in Cairns. Situated on the waterfront, this bar and restaurant boasts stunning views of the Trinity Inlet and serves up a range of seafood dishes at reasonable prices. Try their seafood platter for a taste of everything.

3. Splash Seafood Restaurant

Splash Seafood Restaurant is a popular choice for seafood lovers on a budget. Their menu features a range of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, calamari, and prawn linguine, all at affordable prices. They also have a great selection of drinks to wash it all down.

4. Barnacle Bill's Seafood Inn

Barnacle Bill's Seafood Inn is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up delicious seafood for over 40 years. Their menu features a range of seafood dishes, including prawns, fish, and scallops, all at reasonable prices. They also offer a range of non-seafood options for those who prefer something different.

5. Cairns Night Markets

For a truly unique seafood experience, head to the Cairns Night Markets. Here you'll find a range of food stalls serving up fresh and affordable seafood dishes, including seafood skewers, oysters, and more. It's the perfect place to grab a quick and tasty meal while exploring the markets.

Whether you're a local or a visitor to Cairns, these top spots for affordable seafood are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

Tips for Enjoying Seafood on a Budget

If you're looking for delicious seafood without breaking the bank, Cairns has plenty of options for you. Here are some tips for enjoying seafood on a budget.

Best Times to Buy

One of the best ways to save money on seafood is to buy it when it's in season. This means that the fish is at its peak and therefore cheaper. In Cairns, the best time to buy seafood is during the winter months, from June to August. During this time, you can find a wide variety of seafood at local markets and grocery stores.

Another way to save money is to buy seafood towards the end of the day. Many seafood markets and grocery stores will discount their seafood towards the end of the day to make room for fresh stock the next day. This is a great way to get high-quality seafood at a lower price.

Local Seafood Markets

Cairns has several local seafood markets where you can find fresh, affordable seafood. The Cairns Fish Market is one of the best places to find a wide variety of seafood at a reasonable price. They offer everything from prawns and fish to oysters and crabs. The market is open seven days a week, so you can always find fresh seafood.

Another great option is Rusty's Market, which is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. They offer a variety of seafood, including prawns, fish, and crabs, as well as fresh produce. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is excellent.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious seafood in Cairns without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for fish and chips or a seafood feast, there are plenty of affordable options available.

Must-Try Cheap Seafood Dishes

If you're looking for delicious yet affordable seafood dishes in Cairns, you're in luck. There are plenty of options to choose from, and we've rounded up some of the must-try dishes for you.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic seafood dish that is loved by many. In Cairns, you can find some of the best fish and chips at The Raw Prawn. Their fish and chips are made with fresh, locally sourced fish and are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Plus, they won't break the bank, making them a great option for a budget-friendly meal.

Seafood Laksa

If you're looking for a warming and flavourful dish, try the seafood laksa at Preston Fresh Seafood. This dish is a spicy coconut curry soup that is filled with prawns, fish, and other seafood. It's served with rice noodles and is the perfect comfort food for a cold day.

Calamari

Calamari is a popular seafood dish that is often served as an appetizer. At The Raw Prawn, you can find delicious and affordable calamari that is perfectly crispy and seasoned to perfection. It's a great option for sharing with friends or as a light meal.

Prawn Stir Fry

If you're a fan of prawns, you have to try the prawn stir fry at The Raw Prawn. This dish is made with fresh prawns, vegetables, and a delicious garlic sauce. It's a healthy and flavourful option that won't break the bank.

Tuna Tataki

For something a little different, try the tuna tataki at Preston Fresh Seafood. This dish is made with seared tuna that is thinly sliced and served with a soy sauce and citrus dressing. It's a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for a hot day.

Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, these must-try cheap seafood dishes in Cairns are sure to satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.

Eating Seafood Sustainably and Affordably

If you are looking for delicious seafood in Cairns that won't break the bank, you are in luck. Cairns is home to a variety of restaurants that offer fresh and affordable seafood dishes. But, as a conscious consumer, you may be wondering how to eat seafood sustainably. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy your seafood while also being mindful of the environment.

Choose Sustainable Seafood

When choosing seafood, it is important to choose sustainable options. This means choosing seafood that is caught or farmed in a way that does not harm the environment or deplete fish populations. Look for seafood that is certified by organisations such as the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). These organisations ensure that seafood is caught or farmed in a way that is sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Look for Local Options

Choosing local seafood is not only good for the environment but also supports local fishermen and the local economy. Look for restaurants that source their seafood locally. This not only ensures that you are getting fresh seafood but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting seafood from other parts of the world.

Opt for Affordable Seafood

Seafood can often be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable options available. Look for seafood that is in season, as this is often cheaper than seafood that is out of season. You can also opt for lesser-known types of seafood, such as sardines or mackerel, which are often cheaper than more popular types of seafood such as salmon or tuna.

Conclusion

By choosing sustainable and affordable seafood options, you can enjoy delicious seafood while also being mindful of the environment. Look for local options and choose seafood that is in season to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. With these tips, you can enjoy seafood in Cairns without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any hidden gems for economical seafood delights in Cairns?

Yes, Cairns has a plethora of hidden gems when it comes to affordable seafood. You can try out Prawn Star, which offers delicious seafood at reasonable prices. Another great option is Ocean World Seafood Market, which is known for its fresh seafood and great prices.

Can you recommend a place for scrumptious seafood that won't break the bank in Cairns?

Absolutely! Cairns has a lot of options when it comes to affordable seafood. You can try out Prawn Star, which offers delicious seafood at reasonable prices. Another great option is Ocean World Seafood Market, which is known for its fresh seafood and great prices.

Is Cairns renowned for its quality seafood at budget-conscious prices?

Yes, Cairns is known for its quality seafood at budget-conscious prices. You can find many seafood restaurants in Cairns that offer fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Some of the most popular ones include Ellenborough Market Café, J65 at Hotel Jen Tanglin, and The Line at Shangri-La Hotel. However, if you are looking for something more affordable, you can try out Prawn Star or Ocean World Seafood Market, which offer delicious seafood at reasonable prices.