The national dish of Australia - Aussie cuisine explained

Australia’s foodie scene is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself. From shrimps on a beachside BBQ to grabbing a pie on the go, to fine dining in the capital cities, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes that reflect the country’s unique mix of cultures and history. Australia’s food scene is seriously underrated, offering a plethora of options for every palate

But when it comes to the all-important question – what’s the national dish of Australia? – the answer isn’t clear cut.

Of all the iconic foods available, is there really one dish to rule them all? One that represents the all-Aussie identity?

Let’s find out.

What is Australian cuisine?

To properly determine the national dish of Australia, it’s important to first understand the broad spectrum that Australian cuisine covers - and it’s diverse to say the least.

Global flavours

Australia’s multicultural population has had a major impact on its food. New residents from Italy, Greece, China, and Lebanon, to name just a few, have all contributed to shaping modern Australian cuisine.

You’ll find everything from parmas (a local twist on the Italian parmigiana) to dim sum and sushi now being enjoyed by Aussies on a regular basis.

And of course, barbecues—an institution in Australia—have been influenced by both American and South American grilling techniques, yet always with an Aussie twist (think sausages, steaks, and shrimp, cooked over hot coals). During festive seasons, especially Christmas in Australia, BBQs become central to celebrations, bringing families and friends together over grilled delights.

Indigenous Australian cuisine - Bush Tucker

One of the most exciting shifts in Australian cuisine is the revival and celebration of bush tucker, or indigenous Australian foods.

Ingredients like wattleseed, finger limes, and bush tomatoes are being incorporated into modern dishes, connecting Australia’s culinary present with its ancient past. To learn more about Indigenous Australian culture, explore our introduction to Aboriginal art and traditions.

Ingredients like wattleseed, finger limes, and bush tomatoes are being incorporated into modern dishes, connecting Australia’s culinary present with its ancient past. For instance, kangaroo meat has become a popular protein choice, offering a lean and flavorful alternative to beef.

Classic/popular Australian food

Ask a bunch of Aussies what the national cuisine is and you can expect to hear answers such as:

• Meat pies
• Vegemite on toast
• Shrimps and seafood
• Snags on the barbie

Each of these dishes tells a different story about the country’s history and cultural influences. And if you’re unfamiliar with some of these terms, our Australian slang guide can help you get up to speed with the local lingo.

Meat Pies

If there’s one dish that has a near-universal appeal across Australia, it’s the meat pie. These handheld, flaky pastries are filled with fillings like beef, gravy, cheese and mushrooms and are something of a staple at bakeries, pubs and sporting events, across the country.

Meat pies are so beloved that Australia’s yearly pie consumption is estimated to be around 270 million pies.

Vegemite on Toast

Next up is the food Aussies love and tourists love to hate: Vegemite on toast. For anyone unfamiliar, Vegemite is a thick, dark brown spread made from yeast extract. It’s salty, savoury, and, for many Aussies, a quintessential part of breakfast. Spread on hot, buttered toast, it’s the ultimate comfort food that many Australians grow up with.

Shrimps (or prawns) and seafood

Given Australia’s extensive coastline and love for fresh, local produce, seafood—especially prawns—holds a special place in the hearts of many Aussies. From the bustling seafood markets of Sydney to the laid-back beachside towns, prawns are a must-have at barbecues, Christmas feasts, and casual summer dinners. But it’s not just prawns—Australia's coastal waters are rich in a variety of seafood, including oysters, mussels, barramundi, and snapper.

Snags on the barbie

The term "snag" is Aussie slang for sausage, and grilling them on the barbecue is an age-old tradition that brings together friends and family, especially on weekends or public holidays. Whether they’re served simply in a slice of white bread with tomato sauce and onions or paired with more elaborate salads and sides, snags are a true Aussie icon.

For a quick snag fix, head to your local Bunnings on the weekend and you'll often find the Sausage Sizzle at the entrance.

For Australians, cooking snags on the barbie isn’t just about the food—it’s about the social act of getting a group of mates together to get their grill on. This makes the Aussie snag a true contender as the national dish of Australia.But did it top the list?

So, what is the national dish of Australia?

In a recent poll which asked more than 24,000 Aussies what the country’s favourite national dish was, roast lamb came in at the top spot.

However, it was a close battle between three clear contenders:

1. Roast lamb (6,177 votes)

2. Meat pie (5,741 votes)

3. BBQ snags (5,317 votes)

Interestingly, not all states agreed on the verdict. In South Australia, the snag reigned supreme, in Victoria lamb galloped into the top spot while in NSW the meat pie was the most popular dish.

So there you have it, roast lamb has been voted as Australia’s national dish, closely followed by the good old meat pie and the classic snag on the BBQ.

Does roast lamb really represent the entire country?

Australian cuisine as a whole is so much more than any one dish. It’s a reflection of the country’s complex history—its indigenous roots, colonial past, and multicultural present.

In a way, Australia’s national dish isn’t just one food—it’s a collection of flavours, traditions, and stories that come together to form the nation’s culinary identity. In truth, we think diversity is the national dish of Australia.