Thursday Island, located in the Torres Strait off the coast of Queensland, Australia, offers a unique food scene influenced by its rich history of migration and cultural exchange. Immigrants from countries like Japan, China, Malaysia, and the Philippines settled on the island during the late 1800s, shaping a cuisine that blends local island traditions with international flavors.
A must-try dish on Thursday Island is the crayfish pie, a local icon featuring locally sourced crayfish in a creamy homemade sauce encased in a crunchy pastry, available at the Ma:Kai café. Another recommended dish is the pork adobo and Vegemite spring rolls, creatively combining Filipino and Australian flavors. For those interested in traditional Torres Strait dishes, namas (pickled raw fish) inspired by Japanese pearl divers from the late 1800s, and sop sop, a yam stew with coconut cream and vegetables, offer authentic tastes of the local culture.
In addition to these specific dishes, visitors can explore various dining experiences on the island. The Grand Hotel's Malu Paru Cafe & Bistro serves local cuisine and pub favorites, while the Public Bar offers ice-cold drinks with views of the harbor. Other cafés and restaurants in town provide diverse menu options to cater to different tastes and preferences.