Poolhouse Bar & Kitchen

Poolhouse Bar and Kitchen brings fresh flavours and breezy vibes to Darwin, capturing the relaxed spirit of the Top End beside the sparkling central pool and whirlpool at Novotel Darwin Airport Resort. This is all-day dining with a sun-kissed accent, where Californian coastal cooking meets Territory soul, and the setting does as much heavy lifting as the menu.

The kitchen leans into bright, beachy profiles and local bounty. To start, salt and pepper squid lands with coriander, ginger and a lively lime dressing, chased by pineapple and chilli salsa. Baja fish tacos nod westward while staying firmly local, piling crisp snapper with creamy aioli and a refreshing pawpaw salad.

Comfort takes a coastal detour with margherita pizza and a homemade beef cheek ragù pasta crowned with burrata and a lick of dried chilli oil. From the grill and pan, Humpty Doo barramundi pairs with smoky cauliflower, shaved fennel and citrus, while lamb rump finds lift in muhammara, pickled zucchini, asparagus, chilli, and mint. Sides keep things indulgent yet simple: Paris mash scented with truffle oil and fries dusted in saltbush seasoning.

To finish, a caramelised banana split arrives with dulce de leche and peanut praline, or there is a serene matcha-infused burnt cheesecake with matcha ice cream. Gather poolside for sunlit lunches or twilight suppers, and let the day drift by. Go on, take the plunge.