Beach Almond — Restaurant in Palm Cove

Well, it's not really hidden, it's on the main road of Palm Cove but the signage really doesn't leap out at you. We were wandering past one night and checked out the sign outside. To be honest the sign initially made me think of an Asian restaurant in a mall. However, on the sign there were several travellers reviews on trip advisor and some awards so we thought we would give it a go. I am so glad we did.

This is one of those little places that you are so glad you found on your holiday and you rave about to all your friends. If this was in Sydney the owner would be being raved about in the media.

To start with the service is excellent, we were greeted quickly and in a professional and friendly manner and seated with water and drinks on the way. The staff are happy to chat if you want to, but are not obtrusive.

The pork belly is to die for. I am not a big seafood eater and I definitely don't usually go for fish at all. This time I tried the Banana Baked fish and I loved it.

My wife went the betel leaf and the prawns and she also loved it. (She is in the room raving about it now, just remembering it)

Some don't like black rice, I do and the sticky black rice dessert was one of the best I've had. The bill was on the high side for two people but both of us walked out full and very satisfied. The owner came out to thank us as we paid the bill and he is a lovely man.

The restaurant menu is a pastiche showcasing the collision of Malay, Singaporean, Chinese and Australian seafood.

How much did we enjoy it?, we went back two nights later and I ordered exactly the same three dishes!

Highly recommended and if I could give the food 6...

As a couple visiting from Townsville, and myself being a chef by trade, we are always on the lookout for authentic, high-quality food with bold, inspiring flavours – and Beach Almond absolutely blew us away.

This family-owned and operated restaurant is a true hidden gem in Palm Cove. From the moment we arrived, we felt the warmth and genuine hospitality that only a locally run venue can offer. The relaxed, beachfront atmosphere sets the tone perfectly, but it’s the food that really steals the show.

Beach Almond offers a beautifully curated Asian-inspired Australian seafood menu that bursts with freshness and creativity. Every dish we tried was expertly balanced, showcasing vibrant ingredients and thoughtful preparation.

But let’s talk about that lobster.

We ordered the Half Lobster with the tropical coconut curry sauce seafood platter.

The lobster was perfectly cooked, tender and sweet, and the sauce? Simply divine. Rich, fragrant, and layered with flavour – the kind of sauce you want to bottle up and take home with you. I would genuinely love to get my hands on the recipe (seriously, if the chef ever releases a cookbook, I’ll be the first in line!).

This dish alone is worth the trip from Townsville – but honestly, the entire dining experience makes Beach Almond a must-visit. You can taste the passion in every plate, and it’s clear this is a business run with heart. It’s so important to support our local families and communities, and Beach Almond makes that easy with incredible food.

If you’re in Palm Cove or anywhere nearby – do yourself a favour and book a table. We’ll definitely be back.

I NEED to try the mud...

In summary, not a nice atmosphere, very small and expensive meals, rubbish kids options, not family friendly, rude staff, small menu size and limited options.

Atmosphere isn’t very nice. Gross cafe blinds which are tripped and need a wash. Very small serving sizes and very expensive. $40 for a main of pork ribs. Although delicious, there were only 6 miniature ribs on the plate. Prawn dishes still had the shells on them and again, $40 for 6. Entrees are tiny. Only 3 dishes on the kids menu - the fish was tiny and very fishy. The chicken was bland and dry just chicken breast. The kids meals are only suitable for children