Kiama’s growing reputation as a foodie tourist destination has been enhanced after making two appearances on an analysis of the top 10 destinations nationwide.

ROLLiN’ Car Insurance experts analysed Australia’s most popular road trips, ranking them on factors like the number of stops, quality, and ratings of its culinary offerings, revealing which journeys come out on top for hungry travellers.

Two of Australia’s top 10 foodie road trips pass through Kiama - the Grand Pacific Drive, which ranked fifth nationally, one ahead of the Sydney-to-Melbourne coastal route.

Saltwater is a popular cafe.

Kiama itself offers 22 highly rated food stops along these routes, each rated 4/5 or higher.

Three of these dining hot spots ranked among the top five food stops with the biggest social media buzz.

Two popular Terralong Street eateries proved popular: Saltwater Cafe, a favourite among locals and visitors, and Miss Arda, known for offering a unique dining experience with Middle Eastern inspiration.

Kiama Council tourism and economic development manager Sally Bursell is not surprised by the high rankings for the area.

“Because we have so many natural endowments here in Kiama, it becomes a natural thing that we build our pillars on but food is one of the things that always gets people’s attention,” she said.

“It’s one of the most enjoyable things in life and it can be tied into your health and wellness, or indulgence, or whatever you want it to be.

Kiama is renowned for its seafood

“The Sydney to Melbourne touring route is popular if you haven’t got time restrictions. Meandering along through the coastal towns is a fun adventure.”

Bursell said Saltwater Cafe was a great place for seafood “with a Mediterranean twist” and Miss Arda liked to try different options on its menu to spice up the offerings for diners.

“In our local eateries, there has always been a big push for local produce and people from out of town like to see that showcased on a menu,” she said.

“We could build on using local wines. It’s always good when you are travelling to pair your meal with a local wine.”

Social media is a part of modern restaurant life and places like The Hill in Gerringong, with its stunning coastal views, benefit from diners posting photos and videos of their meals with beautiful scenery in the backdrop.

“It is helpful for businesses for people to be posting on social media, that organic, authentic reviewing that is instant,” Bursell added.

A taste of the Middle East from Miss Arda in Kiama.

“From a marketing point of view it really plays into the hands of our operators.”

ROLLiN’ executive manager Brendan Griffiths said working out where to eat is an essential part of any good road trip.

“Before you hit the road, it’s important to plan ahead for your trip, including where you’ll take rest breaks,” he said.

“Food stops can be some of the best parts of the journey, so take the time to map out where you’ll eat along the way – or come prepared with supplies if you’re travelling a more regional route.”

Silica delivers mouth-watering meals.