Rottnest Island's Most Epic Carnivore Long Lunch Spots: Your DELICIOUS Day Trip Guide
Image credit - Pinky’s Beach Club
Heading to Rottnest Island and committed to your carnivore lifestyle? You're in for a treat. While most visitors are busy snapping quokka selfies, we've been busy hunting down the island's best protein-packed offerings. From premium steaks to fresh-caught seafood, here's your insider's guide to eating like a proper carnivore on Rotto.
Pinky's Beach Club: Where Premium Meets Paradise
Perched above the whitest sand on the island, Pinky's isn't just about the views - though they're spectacular. Their Black Angus Fillet ($54) is a carnivore's dream, and the kitchen is more than happy to serve it without the usual trimmings. But the real showstopper? The Tomahawk for 2 ($120). Served medium rare, this beast of a cut is worth planning your entire day around.
For the seafood-loving carnivore, their Skull Island Tiger Prawns ($44) are a must-try. Pro tip: ask for them simply grilled with just butter and skip the usual accompaniments. The kitchen crew here gets dietary requirements and won't bat an eye when you ask for modifications.
Image credit - Havza
Havza: Where Mediterranean Meets Meat
Don't let the Mediterranean vibes fool you - Havza knows their meat. Their 450g grass-fed Black Angus NY Striploin is the star of the show, and serious carnivores should make a beeline for it. Ask for it simply grilled with just salt - the quality of the meat speaks for itself.
The Lamb Ribs here are another standout. While they usually come with herb oil and mint sauce, the kitchen is happy to serve them straight up. Their Greek Style Chicken can be ordered "naked" - just the perfectly grilled bird without the citrus and thyme oil.
Seafood enthusiasts should check out their Abrolhos Scallops or Kalbarri Rankin Cod. Request them with just butter instead of the usual seasonings for a pure protein hit.
Image credit - Hotel Rottnest
Hotel Rottnest: Sunset Sessions with Substance
As the sun starts its descent, Hotel Rottnest comes into its own. Their Miso Gochujang Sticky Lamb Ribs ($85) are the star of the show - yes, there's some seasoning involved, but it's minimal and the meat quality is exceptional. For something simpler, their grilled local fish ($MP) can be ordered plain with just butter and lemon.
For serious meat enthusiasts, their bone-in selections like the T-bone steak (15/100g) and Rump Cap (14/100g) offer excellent value. The kitchen here is particularly accommodating - don't hesitate to ask for your protein "simply grilled" with just butter and salt. They're also masters at fish cookery, so their daily market fish selection, when ordered plain grilled, is always a solid option.
Image credit - Lontara
Lontara: Asian-Inspired Protein
While Lontara's menu leans towards Asian flavors, there's plenty here for the carnivore crowd. Their Satay Skewers ($45 per person set menu) can be ordered without the peanut sauce, giving you pure chicken and beef protein. The Half Shell Abrolhos Scallops (add $7 each), when requested with just butter, are a delicate but satisfying option.
Isola bar e Cibo: Italian Meets Island Life
Bringing a touch of Italy to Rottnest, Isola's Carpaccio di manzo (raw grain-fed O'Connor sirloin, $29) is a carnivore's delight - pure protein at its finest. Their piece de resistance is the Bistecca alla fiorentina (750g T-bone, $95) that would make any meat lover weak at the knees. Their extensive cured meat selection (Affettati misti $36) offers a great protein variety. For the full carnivore experience, skip the sides and double down on the protein.
Making the Most of Your Meat-Based Day
The key to successful carnivore dining on Rottnest is planning ahead. Most venues get busy during peak times (12-2pm), so book ahead if you're eyeing specific cuts like Pinky's Tomahawk or Havza's NY Striploin.
Don't be shy about making special requests - island hospitality means the staff are generally happy to accommodate dietary needs. It's worth mentioning your preferences when booking, especially for higher-end venues like Isola or Hotel Rottnest.
For the best experience, time your main meal around sunset. There's something magical about enjoying a perfectly grilled piece of meat while watching the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. Just be sure to book ahead - those sunset tables are hot property.
Remember, while Rottnest might be famous for its quokkas, its protein offerings are equally impressive. With a bit of planning and these insider tips, you can enjoy a perfect day of carnivore eating on this island paradise.