Calypso Club in Cairns is a lively rum bar and seafood kitchen nestled on the ground floor of Crystalbrook Riley overlooking the Esplanade. Inspired by coastal nostalgia, it features tropical cocktails, and a wonderful sustainable seafood menu. Expect bright interiors, beachfront vibes and relaxed seaside charm.
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This definitely feels like the spot where the cool crowd gathers. The only downside? We arrive at 5pm, only to find that the kitchen stops serving food at 6pm. It’s a bit of a rush, but still worth it for the vibrant atmosphere and great bites.
The venue has a fun, tropical vibe, colourful, laid back yet full of energy. It’s quirky, youthful, and feels like a holiday within a holiday.
Sliced a little thicker than typical sashimi, the fish is nonetheless fresh and full of flavour. The plate is artfully decorated with dollops of passionfruit purée and Thai basil, adding a fruity with a little heat touch. A tangy nam jim style sauce ties it all together, making the dish truly wonderful.
These are simply delicious. The grilled prawn and chorizo skewers are bursting with flavour, served with a zesty chimichurri style sauce and a wedge of lime. Every bite is a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and fresh, we’re absolutely delighted with these skewers.
Served with garlic aioli and a light vinegar mist, these are a fantastic twist on an old-school classic. Crispy on the outside, soft inside, we absolutely love these potato scallops (or potato cakes, for those from the south). A nostalgic favourite, reimagined.
According to the menu, the Calypso Roll features locally sourced seasonal shellfish served on a soft brioche bun with crisp lettuce and zesty lemon aioli. It’s absolutely delicious, fresh, flavourful, and perfectly balanced, although mostly prawns.
Served with a tangy nam jim dipping sauce, the vegetables are perfectly cooked. They are crisp on the outside and tender inside. We devour them in no time, my favourite being the eggplant.
These mud crab and snapper croquettes are also an absolute standout. Crispy on the outside and packed with rich, delicate seafood flavour inside, However, I find them a little dry, a little more Crème fraîche and salmon roe would help, otherwise they’re beautifully cooked,
Calypso Club Cairns, located within the Crystalbrook Riley complex, is a tropical gem perfect for a relaxed afternoon. With its breezy coastal vibe, refreshing cocktails, and flavour packed seafood dishes, it’s the ideal spot to unwind, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy a delightful slice of Cairns’ vibrant hospitality scene.
Go to Tropical North Queensland and visit Cairns!
Matty Somewhere 