Rufus
ProHighlights
- The Burgundy Room seats 16 or holds 30 standing behind velvet curtains
- Semi-private Mid Level dining area seats up to 40
- Chef's menu cooked over fire from $85 per person
About Rufus
Rufus is a restaurant and cocktail bar on Spence Street in Cairns City, open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday. The kitchen cooks over fire and follows the seasons, and the bar pours classic cocktails and a curated wine list. Functions come in three sizes. The Burgundy Room is the private option: guests step through velvet curtains into an air-conditioned room that seats 16 or takes up to 30 standing. Mid Level is a semi-private dining area on the upper floor of the main room, seating up to 40. It suits a larger group that wants its own space while still sharing the buzz of the restaurant. For a bigger event, the whole restaurant can be booked for exclusive use. Hosts can choose a seated dinner, cocktails and canapés, or a combination, and the team helps shape the night. The private spaces use set menus, or the team can build a custom menu. The published chef's menu is $85 per person with shared dishes from the fire, and a $45 per person wine pairing can be added. Dishes are marked for vegetarian, vegan and other dietary needs, and many can be modified. One bill is preferred for groups, and a 15% surcharge applies on public holidays.
Inclusions & amenities
Venue type
Budget
Food & drinks
Features
Facilities
Pricing
Food
Vegetarian, vegan and modifiable dishes are marked on the menu.
Beverages
Availability
Frequently asked questions
How many people fit in the Burgundy Room?
The Burgundy Room seats up to 16 guests or takes up to 30 standing. It is private and air-conditioned, closed off by velvet curtains.
Is there space for a larger group?
Yes. Mid Level, a semi-private area on the upper floor of the main dining room, seats up to 40. For more guests, the whole restaurant can be booked for exclusive use.
What does the chef's menu cost?
The published chef's menu is $85 per person. A wine pairing can be added for $45 per person, and a cheese course for $18.
Can the menu cater for dietary needs?
The menu marks vegetarian, vegan, nut, gluten and dairy items, and several dishes can be modified. Let the team know about any dietary needs ahead of the booking.
How is the bill handled for groups?
One bill is preferred. The restaurant can split a bill evenly, but an itemised split adds 5%, and a 15% surcharge applies on public holidays.
Where we are
Suitable occasions
Nat Nov
2 weeks ago
We went there for a girls’ night out, and everything was amazing! The atmosphere was lovely, the food was delicious, and the Italian lady who served us was so friendly and welcoming. We all had a great time! Definitely c…
Awatea Strother
a month ago
Got the chefs menu. Really enjoyed all the food. Time between the different plates was well timed. Service was great. Overall very happy.
FS
2 months ago
Very trendy and chic place. I loved the contemporary design and music. Menu was small but you will love it if you go for meats the wagyu was absolutely delicious and the bites also beautiful.
kristina karlsson
2 months ago
Went to Rufus to celebrate my birthday. The team was so friendly and professional. The food was incredible and the drinks were fabulous. Every bite was a magnificent flavour experience!
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