Summertime never really leaves Noosa. While June might mean an end to torture by humidity, Noosa’s sunny disposition keeps on keeping on. Softer prosecco-clear light transforms Laguna Bay into polished turquoise as we stroll the now walkable sand. It’s long lunch weather, perfect for a glass or two, and a seat at the table with the country’s culinary legends. (or as Brisbane Times Matt Shea recently described it as – ‘Chef’s Schoolies’).
And in 2026, it’s back to the future: after six years under the ‘Eat & Drink’ moniker, the festival has returned to its roots: Noosa Food & Wine Festival.
For those of us who have written about this annual celebration of good eats and exceptional wine for more than ten years, the name change isn’t a game-changer. It’s still that grand but familiar hospitality that put Noosa on the map long before “foodie” was a common noun. For four days, from June 11 to 14, the centre of the Australian gastronomic universe is Noosa Food & Wine 2026.
The Italian Long Lunch
If you only have a single afternoon at Noosa Food & Wine, it has to be The Italian Long Lunch on Main Beach.
Last year, the heavens opened, but the beach was merely the backdrop. This year’s Italian Long Lunch is a triple-threat collaboration between Guy Grossi, Adriano Zumbo, and Andrea Ravezzani. It’s a combo of respect for tradition, meeting whimsical precision and local know-how, all served on the sand. (No one will ever know if you slip off your sandals and wriggle your toes in the sand).
The Heartbeat of the River: Lucio’s Marina
When Lucio’s Marina first opened its doors at the Noosa Marina, I wrote for delicious: “Pop the Prosecco. Sydney’s hottest Italian crossed the border and opened in Noosa. Lucio’s Marina magically combines that renowned Galletto hospitality with seafood that stirs the soul”. Bringing the Galletto family’s storied Sydney heritage to the Tewantin riverfront was a bold move that has paid off in spades.
In 2026, Lucio’s remains a festival focal point. Their Ligurian Long Table is an audience with Lucio Galletto himself. The menu, naturally, leans heavily on the ocean’s bounty – think hand-rolled pasta and local seafood- but the real draw will be the atmosphere. It’s bound to be noisy, joyous, and unapologetically Italian. And as we go to press, it’s sold out.
But for those attending the Official Opening Party on Friday, June 12, keep an eye out for Lucio’s interactive seafood bar. It’s always a great way to kick off the weekend. And for those who missed out on the lunch, it will be the perfect opportunity to see the Galletto family’s hospitality in action.
The Restaurant Series: where chefs pair up – for one night only
One of the festival’s greatest strengths has always been its ability to turn local favourites into temporary kitchens for Australia’s best chefs. The 2026 Restaurant Series is particularly star-studded.
While the sold-out signs are already appearing, there are still some not-to-be-missed events to be found. Louis Tikaram (of Brisbane’s Stanley) is bringing his high-octane energy to Park & Cove, while the hinterland comes alive at The Woodshed Kin Kin.
Rickys x ESSA collaborative lunch on Sunday, June 14, will be six courses with thoughtfully paired wines. On Ricky’s elegant riverfront, Chef Enrique Mancilla hosts ESSA’s Phil Marchant. It’s the kind of afternoon that starts at noon and finishes only when the sun has completely dipped below the river bend.
For a more relaxed but equally refined afternoon, Matt Golinski is hosting An Afternoon of Fine Food & Exceptional Beer with Matt Golinski at Heads of Noosa on Sunday, June 14. A certified local treasure, Matt’s understanding of Sunny Coast produce always shines through in his menus.
The Festival Village
All roads eventually lead to the Festival Village in Noosa Woods (Saturday, June 13).
This isn’t your average food fair. Under the canopy of the trees, the Village is now more “lounge” than village. While the Main Stage will see the likes of Ben Cooper (Chin Chin) and Warren Mendes showcasing their fire-and-smoke techniques, my advice is to head straight for the VIP Village Pavilion.
It’s the best way to navigate the 40+ eateries and bars without losing your sense of calm. General admission allows you to watch any session for free. The Culinary Stage Interactive tickets ($24.50) offer a front-row seat to the masterclasses, allowing you to get close enough to see chef’s technique up close. And there are samples! And a gift from Olsson’s Salt.
The commute
Noosa is always a “full house” during festival week, but the 2026 organisers have been working on the details to make it all smoother with new shuttle services from Sunshine Plaza, making the trip to Hastings Street seamless.
Noosa Food and Wine 2026
While food trends come and go as fast as a TikTok, Noosa Food & Wine 2026 still promises that timeless combo of world-class produce and visionary chefs, in this particularly sparkling patch of the Queensland coast.
Follow the Flavour: For the full Noosa Food & Wine 2026 program and remaining tickets, visit noosafoodandwine.com.au.
