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Overview & Highlights

Located in the picturesque Dolphin Heads, Salt Cafe Bar & Restaurant Mackay offers a truly unforgettable dining experience that artfully combines fresh local seafood and hearty, satisfying steaks in a vibrant yet relaxed setting. Whether you’re starting your day with their famous buffet breakfast or indulging in a sumptuous lunch or dinner, Salt Cafe promises dishes that delight every sense.

The culinary offerings here are an homage to quality and freshness. Guests often rave about the impeccably cooked Surf and Turf — tender steaks paired with succulent prawns and scallops that melt in your mouth. The seafood is impressively fresh, with crisp oysters and perfectly balanced sauces enhancing each dish without overshadowing natural flavors. Pastries made fresh in-house for breakfast offer a flaky, buttery introduction to the day, while the salted caramel cheesecake serves as a decadent finale to any meal.

The atmosphere at Salt Cafe Bar & Restaurant is a wonderful blend of casual charm and attentive service. It’s easy to feel welcomed by the friendly staff who go above and beyond, whether hosting spontaneous large groups or intimate birthday celebrations. Authentic entertainment on select days adds a lively flair, making your visit not just a meal but a complete sensory experience. Diners appreciate the generosity of portions paired with reasonable pricing, all set against the stunning backdrop of Dolphin Heads.

Salt Cafe Bar & Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s where memories are made — from celebrating milestone birthdays to enjoying leisurely Sunday lunches with friends. With a spirited team led by Tracey, Nel, and John, every detail is thoughtfully curated for your enjoyment. If you seek fresh, perfectly cooked seafood, mouthwatering steaks, and a welcoming ambiance infused with local charm, Salt Cafe is a must-visit destination in the Mackay region.

Comforts & Conveniences

Service options
  • Outdoor seating
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
Popular for
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Where to Visit

Visitor Testimonials (301)

We had breakfast and I can only describe as great. The pastry are made fresh in-house and it is delicious. It is a great buffet breakfast for $25. I really recommend it.

I was hesitant to eat here because other reviews didn't really rate the place but I was more than pleasantly surprised. Good service, incredible food and fab entertainment. Do yourself a favour and head out for the Sunday lunch special sometime.

Just had my 70th birthday at dolphin heads with most people staying in house great accommodation and then catered for by salt restaurant which was amazing every one commented on quantity and taste. Thanks to tracey and team especially nel and John for an amazing experience. Also had dinner that evening on spur of moment catered for 27 of us and all beautiful meals and great cocktails gave them a bit of a nudge yum yum. Thoroughly recommend

New owners were very friendly and welcoming. Ordered the Surf and Turf and it did not disappoint, with prawns and scallops. Salted Caramel cheesecake was heavenly. Will definitely be going back.

What can I say..... apart from OMG! I am very picky when it comes to fresh seafood and my steaks. This restaurant got everything right! From my medium rare was perfect to fresh oysters, to sauce was perfect, to crunchy salad and chips, to perfect portions. If you are looking for a great feed, Great prices and wonderful service. These are your people!! We are from Brisbane and we will definitely be back on the way back down from Airlie! And the view just tops it off! Well done team!

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