The Top End s tamarind trees, for example, are testimony to the Territory s long history of trade with our northern neighbours, beginning when the Macassans from what is now Indonesia sailed south to collect trepang and trade with the coastal Aboriginal people. The camels of Central Australia are a legacy of the Afghan camel drivers, who were among the region s non-Aboriginal pioneers. People from some 50 nationalities live in the Territory. One only to has to take a trip to one of the Darwin markets Mindil Beach, Parap, Nightcliff or Rapid Creek to see their influence in foods. Choices are offered from Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, India, Germany, the Philippines, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, China, Italy and Greece.
Many ethnic groups hold annual festivals to share their culture and food.
The Territory s restaurants and cafes are another pointer to the unique nature of northern cuisine. In the Top End, there are venues such as the award-winning Hanuman, featuring Thai, Nonya and Indian Tandoori food, and Pee Wees at the Point, where executive chef Tony Long serves up Australian Creole. The Waterhole Restaurant in Darwin s Central Business District showcases the talents of Jock Mitchell, who impressed New Yorkers with a vibrant menu of Territory foods on a promotional visit there earlier this year organised through Darwin company Australian Food Merchants. In Central Australia, the Overlander Steakhouse serves up wild meats such as camel, emu, rabbit, buffalo, crocodile, kangaroo and barramundi. Alice Springs is also home to what is probably Australia s only Swiss-Indian restaurant.