Beef is the most popular meat, followed by lamb and mutton, poultry, and pork. Australians generally prefer their food plain rather than spicy. Meat is usually grilled or roasted and served with potatoes and another vegetable. However, Italian, Greek, and various other European styles of cooking have become increasingly popular as the number of immigrants from mainland Europe has increased. Many Australians have also developed a taste for food from Southeast Asian countries.
Chinese restaurants are common throughout Australia.
In addition, the larger cities have a number of Indian, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese restaurants. Tea is still a popular hot drink in Australia. However, coffee consumption has tripled since the mid-1900's, while tea consumption has declined. Beer is the most popular alcoholic drink. Australia's long, sunny summers and mild winters enable the people to enjoy picnics and barbecues all year round.