Australia’s most iconic rock now rocks the food scene.
You already know Uluṟu as one of the world’s greatest natural wonders – but did you know it’s also home to the Northern Territory’s best dining?
At the 2025 Hospitality NT Gold Plate Awards, Tali Wiṟu, the signature open-air dining experience at Ayers Rock Resort, was crowned Restaurant of the Year. The win cements Uluṟu as not only a bucket-list destination for awe-inspiring landscapes but also for world-class food.
A fine-dining experience under the stars

Tali Wiru has a Chef’s Hat. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)
Meaning “beautiful dune” in the local Aṉangu language, Tali Wiṟu offers diners an unforgettable four-course banquet beneath the desert sky. Think native flavours like wattleseed, quandong, and desert lime woven into contemporary dishes, paired with premium Australian wines and uninterrupted views of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa glowing at sunset.
It’s a recipe that has already earned Tali Wiṟu a coveted Chef’s Hat from the Australian Good Food Guide – making it the highest-rated restaurant in the Northern Territory and the only open-air restaurant in Australia to hold such an honour.
More than one win for Uluṟu

Arnguli Grill & Restaurant won the Best Hotel Restaurant. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)
The resort didn’t stop there. Its Arnguli Grill & Restaurant, located at Desert Gardens Hotel, also took home the award for Best Hotel Restaurant, impressing judges with refined dishes that showcase premium Australian steak and native ingredients in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
A taste of Country

The culinary philosophy is to champion bush foods and pay respect to Anangu culture. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)
For both restaurants, the accolades recognise more than just flawless cooking – they’re also a celebration of connection to Country. Central to Ayers Rock Resort’s culinary philosophy is championing bush foods and paying respect to Aṉangu culture. Native ingredients like lemon myrtle, kangaroo and desert lime feature heavily on the menus, offering travellers a true taste of the Red Centre.
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia CEO Matt Cameron-Smith said the wins highlight their dedication to delivering world-class dining experiences.
“These awards are a testament to the passion and creativity of our culinary teams, and to the unique cultural and natural setting that inspires everything we do,” he said.