Charlies of Darwin

From the moment we walked through the door, the banter started — and we knew we were in for a fun night! Gavin, the Maitre d’, welcomed us, introduced us to one of our servers and showed us to our table. The menu came with a healthy dose of fun and cheeky humour, and thankfully, the laughs didn’t stop there! The entertainment continued throughout the evening, alongside a fabulous banquet of delicious food. Every dish was packed with lovely flavours and there was plenty to keep us happily eating our way through the night. The atmosphere was sophisticated but without being stuffy, and the combination of great food, great service and plenty of laughs made for a fantastic evening. Our only little hmmm… was the bathroom facilities. The accessible toilet in the ladies’ bathroom is right at the furthest end, which might be a bit of a mission for someone using a wheelchair. It was manageable with a walking stick, but we felt the bathroom facilities, both male and female, could definitely use a little TLC and an upgrade to match the standard of the restaurant. But honestly, that was only a small hiccup in an otherwise fabulous night. We laughed, we ate, we enjoyed ourselves — and clearly we liked it because we’ve already re-booked! 😂 A huge thank you to the whole team for such a fun and memorable evening. We’re looking forward to doing it all again! From the dinner crew — Kathryn, James, Trevor & Robyn 🍽️🥂😂

We stumbled on Charlie’s our first night in Darwin - we were so warmly welcomed by Gav and the team that we decided to go back the next night for pre dinners on the Terrace and dinner. Wow! Everything we ordered was fabulous. Still dreaming about the truffle fries but honestly everything was top level. The mix of flavors - the local produce - don’t get me started on that gimlet cocktail. Staff were amazing. Big shout out to Gav and the team for a memorable night. Highly recommended.

I was surprised to be able to book a 7pm table on a busy night which might have explained a rapid check of the computer, it might be better to phone them. We were rapidly seated, water was inquired about and menus left. 15 minutes later our order taken. We were seated for 25 minutes before our drinks arrived... if your desperate for a drink I recomend ordering something simple immediately upon being seated and then get something fancy. The water was offered twice but didn't arrive until the boss walked past and noticed the error... it would have been easier for me to get it from the bar. Mains (steak & barramundi) were exceptional 5/5, The steak comes with fries so a side dish might be desired. Dessert ordering was also delayed until I went to the bar. We had the pavlova and a flourless chocolate torte... more of a solid mousse. 4/5 Service during the night was pleasant but 3/5 due to possibly a combination of at least 2 new waiters, number of patrons with only 3 waiters and the maitre d servicing the restaurant and the terrace area. This should be a short lived problem if supervision or waiter numbers increase. There was also a delay waiting to pay the bill while the maitre d socialised with departing guests/VIP's. In short, I wouldn't return but others will probably have better luck than us.

You enter this great eatery at the rear of the building (Austin Lane), but once we found our way in, we were warmly greeted and very well attended to. The native ingredients paired beautifully with the ingredients in the dishes we tried. The squid, eggplant and snake bean dishes were favourites. The gins and wine by the glass also excellent. It’s also an amazing space to dine in! Special mention to Gavin and Kaitlin for friendly service.

Loved our night at Charlie’s! Cocktails were beautiful, service was 10/10 & we had the territory platter and it was absolutely beautiful. Would highly recommend

We had an outstanding meal at Charlie’s. Thanks so much to Gavin for looking after us so well. The food was absolutely delicious and the level of care for my gluten free requirements as a celiac was exceptional. I was treated with so much kindness and it’s the first time I have felt genuinely safe and able to fully enjoy a meal at a restaurant since I was diagnosed as a celiac. The other 3 guests didn’t need gluten free but also had outstanding meals, full of great flavours and textures. The service was timely and great done with great humour and we thoroughly enjoyed meeting Gavin and the team. Thanks so much for a wonderful evening. We also had some fabulous cocktails- really well made - the bar staff are clearly expert cocktail makers- we had some classic martinis and negronis that were perfectly made.

Fantastic retro interior and gin with local Territory ingredients is next level. We had a great night.

Myself and two adult children were visiting Darwin to celebrate our significant birthdays this year (all three with zeroes). We glanced in to Charlie’s on Wednesday evening. Enticed by the music, we climbed the stairs and viewed the lovely big bar area, but then we discovered the magic! The restaurant and distillery looked simply fantastic, the menu looked great and the atmosphere was brilliant. As we went down the stairs, one of the staff was with us and was super friendly and animated talking about the place! So…. We returned the following evening and had the very best night. Gav and the team looked after us sooo well! The food was awesome, the drinks were perfect and the whole team were so helpful and friendly. I could not recommend Charlie’s more highly after our wonderful experience. Thanks Gav and team The Paddy, the Pom and the Skip😀

We had a great meal very friendly and helpful service. Crocodile dumping was a gamble but very tasty. Definitely recommended.

I had a really disturbing experience at Charlie’s of Darwin that left me questioning the venue’s approach to patron safety. While using the unisex toilet, I witnessed a man urinating in the sink. Shocked, I immediately informed the security guard, expecting a professional and serious response. Instead, I was brushed off with: “I wasn’t in there, so what do you want me to do?” This kind of dismissive attitude is not only unprofessional — it’s dangerous. My concern goes beyond just the disgusting act I witnessed. What if something far more serious happened in that bathroom — like harassment or assault? If someone reported it, would they get the same careless response? Venues that allow unisex bathrooms must ensure proper monitoring and have security staff who are trained to handle situations respectfully and urgently. Based on my experience, Charlie’s of Darwin is failing in that regard. I won’t be returning, and I’d strongly caution others — especially women — to be careful here. Basic hygiene and safety should not be too much to ask for.