Darwin and Surrounds - Savour the delicacies

The most popular food market in the Northern Territory, Darwin's Mindil Beach Sunset Market is a sensational way to sample the flavours of the Asia-Pacific region and beyond in a balmy, tropical setting.

Held every Thursday in the dry season months between May and October, this market is just as popular with the locals as it is with tourists. Hundreds gather here to buy dishes from the stallholders and sit on the beach to watch the sun go down and the stars appear.

The choice of dishes is enormous and exciting. Darwin is a multicultural city and its composition is reflected in the wide range of produce and dishes available at all its markets. Indonesian food is a natural in these surroundings, and there are many stalls selling such tasty, traditional treats as satays with peanut sauce, gado-gado and fried rice and noodle dishes. Thai food is another specialty of the market, and there's nothing like a bowl of fiery tom yum soup or a green chicken curry to add spice to your evening.

Over the years, Darwin has welcomed many Vietnamese, many of whom entered Australia as refugees, and the delicate, fragrant Vietnamese spring rolls wrapped in rice paper are the perfect finger food. The distinctive cuisines of Japan, Laos, the Philippines, India and Cambodia add their own special flavours to this multicultural feast, or there are always spit roasts, burgers and fish and chips to satisfy traditionalists. The market is situated just off the beach and is within walking distance of the city. Buses and taxis are available from the city hotels, and there is also a spacious parking area.