NSW Takes the Crown as Australia’s Number One Food Tourism Destination

NSW food tourism

New South Wales is serving up an irresistible invitation to travellers, with new tourism figures confirming the state is Australia’s number one destination for food tourism. From Sydney’s world-class restaurants and bustling seafood markets to regional wineries, farm-gate experiences and vibrant food festivals, NSW is attracting visitors eager to explore the state through its distinctive flavours.

According to Tourism Research Australia data published by Destination NSW in October 2026, food tourism is generating billions of dollars in visitor spending, supporting local businesses and encouraging travellers to discover destinations across metropolitan and regional New South Wales.

Food Tourism Generates More Than $12 Billion

NSW welcomed 5.1 million domestic overnight food tourism visitors in 2025, who spent $5.6 billion during their trips. The state also attracted 1.2 million international culinary visitors, an increase of 5.7 per cent year-on-year. International visitors engaging in food tourism contributed $6.6 billion in reported spending in NSW, up 21 per cent.

These results highlight the growing role of dining, local produce and culinary experiences in attracting visitors to the state. Travellers are increasingly planning holidays around memorable meals, regional specialties, markets and opportunities to meet the people behind the food.

Sydney Serves Up World-Class Culinary Experiences

NSW food tourism

Sydney offers an impressive introduction to NSW food tourism, with an internationally recognised dining scene encompassing contemporary Australian cuisine, multicultural restaurants, fine dining and fresh seafood.

Sydney Fish Market is a popular destination for visitors wanting to experience the city's seafood culture. Restaurants, cafes and neighbourhood dining precincts throughout the harbour city provide opportunities to discover cuisines influenced by communities from around the world.

Shopping for fresh produce at local markets, sampling regional ingredients on restaurant menus and enjoying a special occasion meal can all become highlights of a Sydney city break.

The latest figures show that fine dining was the most popular culinary activity among domestic overnight food tourism visitors in NSW in 2025, enjoyed by 56 per cent. Food markets followed at 43 per cent.

Discover Regional NSW Through Food and Wine

Beyond Sydney, regional NSW offers travellers opportunities to connect food with landscapes, local traditions and regional communities.

The Hunter Valley is renowned for its wineries, cellar doors and restaurants, making it an appealing destination for a weekend escape. Visitors can combine wine tasting with long lunches, local produce and accommodation overlooking vineyards.

Across the North Coast, seafood, farm-fresh ingredients and regional markets provide a taste of coastal life. The South Coast offers fresh seafood, local producers and relaxed dining experiences, while inland towns invite visitors to explore country bakeries, farm shops and seasonal produce.

These experiences encourage travellers to stay longer, explore beyond the major cities and support businesses throughout the state.

Markets, Festivals and Authentic Food Experiences

Local food markets are particularly popular with international visitors. In 2025, 62 per cent of international food tourism visitors to NSW experienced local food markets, while 53 per cent enjoyed fine dining and 12 per cent attended food festivals.

NSW also offers a calendar of culinary events that gives travellers additional reasons to visit. Highlights include Vivid Sydney's food program, NSW Wine Month and the Australian Native Food Festival. Regional events such as Curryfest in Woolgoolga, Savour the Tweed and Pearls and Plates in Broken Bay further showcase the diversity of local food culture.

These events provide opportunities to taste regional specialties, meet producers and discover destinations that may otherwise be overlooked.

Food Tourism Supports the Future of NSW Travel

NSW food tourism

The NSW Government's Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 sets a target of $91 billion in annual visitor expenditure by 2035. Culinary tourism is expected to contribute to this ambition by attracting visitors, supporting hospitality businesses, creating jobs and spreading tourism benefits across regional communities.

For travellers planning their next Australian holiday, NSW offers compelling reasons to make food part of the itinerary. Whether enjoying seafood in Sydney, tasting wines in the Hunter Valley, browsing a country farmers' market or attending a regional food festival, visitors can discover the state one memorable meal at a time.

With its combination of sophisticated dining, fresh local produce, regional food traditions and exciting culinary events, New South Wales continues to strengthen its reputation as Australia's leading food tourism destination.

Destination NSW

Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/
Media releases: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/newsroom/

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