From hand-crafted pasta to hand-stretched pizza dough, Brisbane boasts some outstanding hotspots when it comes to hearty Italian food. Share bottles of wine over antipasto platters, sip on smooth espresso with a pastry in hand and get the whole family together and split large pizzas – with mini pizzas, and fluffy pancakes for the little ones – the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane offer a special homemade touch to every meal out.
A neighbourhood favourite in Woolloongabba is a throwback to 70s-era New York, while a CBD hotspot serves up traditional, vegan and gluten-free favourites. Stick to the CBD and you’ll find relaxed riverside restaurants serving up homemade pasta and an Italian-French hotspot offering pastries, paninis and pizzas. There’s a kid-friendly family restaurant with outposts throughout Brisbane and an inner-city Coorparoo favourite with rustic charm.
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Keep reading for the 10 best Italian restaurants in Brisbane
For a neighbourhood gem loved by locals – visit Sasso Italiano in Woolloongabba
At Sasso Italiano neighbourhood dining gets an elegant update. This retro-feel restaurant is hard to miss; just look for the neon-red sign and the patterned-tile stairs. Head through the doors and into a sleek dining space inspired by New York’s 70s-era Italian eateries. Share plates of marinated Australian olives and crispy cheesy garlic focaccia. Then, move on to a primi course of creamy parmesan gnocchi, and a juicy sirloin with mixed wild mushrooms for your secondi. Alternatively, order one of Sasso’s signature pizzas, with fermented dough made with semi-wholemeal flour. Try the classic Margherita topped with fior di latte or a funghi tartufati with mushrooms and aromatic truffle paste. Another major draw at Sasso Italiano is the drinks. The bar’s speciality is negronis, with over 10 separate twists on the classic cocktail available. Sip on a plum pisco negroni or opt for a fragole kiss with notes of Earl Grey and strawberry.
For delicious gluten-free and vegan Italian cooking – check out Olive and Angelo in the Brisbane CBD
Olive and Angelo serves up traditional Italian cooking, without leaving anyone behind. Its gluten-free and vegan options include handmade pasta and pizza bases, ensuring everyone can enjoy comforting Italian classics. Of course, traditional homemade dishes are also available, so it’s easy for every diner to find something they’ll love. Start with some bruschetta served on house-made bread or try the crispy calamari with a tangy pizzaiola sauce. The wood-fired pizzas include the parma with 24-month Prosciutto di Parma and the favolosa with smoked provola and truffle honey. If you’re vegan, you can ask for vegan cheese or house-made coconut feta instead of cheese. People especially enjoy the homemade pasta dishes, and the spiced wood-fired spatchcock is perfect for a meaty main. Seasonal greens and a homemade touch help make Olive and Angelo feel fresh and local. This vibe continues with the hanging plants and open garden seating in the relaxed dining space. Warm, welcoming and with something for everyone, Olive and Angelo is the perfect spot for a big family meal.
For one of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane for dazzling views – book at OTTO Brisbane in the Brisbane CBD
Relax on the riverfront at OTTO Brisbane, a Southbank hotspot full of sunshine and colour. Pops of orange, green and blue match perfectly with the stunning scenery outside. Dine out on the balcony for the best view of the river, bridges and CBD beyond. On the produce-driven menu, you’ll find generous Italian fare made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The focus on top-quality seasonal ingredients means the menu is always subject to change, but the fresh pasta made in-house each day complements any seasonal flavours. (Gluten-free options are also available.) Choose from options like squid ink-infused fettuccine served with local bay squid and spaghettini with Champagne lobster and lemon butter. Alternatively, order sirloin, rib-eye or t-bone from OTTO’s exclusive selection of Rangers Valley 270-day grain-fed beef. With a marble score of 7+, they’re sure to be extra tender and juicy. Pair your dishes with an Italian wine, a Queensland beer or a unique cocktail.
For one of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane for special occasions – book at Persone Italian Restaurant in the Brisbane CBD
With panoramic views of the Brisbane River and CBD, Persone Italian Restaurant is perfect for date nights, family meals and much more. The chic, blue-carpeted interior spills out onto a large balcony that offers great views of the city lights at night. Start with a round of drinks and slices of pizza bianca for an aperitivo. Add on an antipasto platter with various cured meats, cheese, truffled honey and sundried tomatoes. Move on to mains like flaky barramundi or juicy crumbed veal cutlet. Pasta dishes with fresh homemade pasta include pillowy gnocchi and hearty pappardelle al ragu. For a full feast, order the banchetto menu and get some of Persone’s best dishes. Alternatively, order from the bar menu for a lighter meal; it includes antipasti, snacks and pizza. Pair your dishes with refreshing cocktails, like a lavender and Midori spritz.
For coffee, pastries or a buzzing aperitivo – swing by Doughcraft in the Brisbane CBD
Daytime dining crosses either side of The Alps at Doughcraft, a cosy CBD restaurant serving up French and Italian favourites. Start your day with freshly baked French pastries and a smooth espresso. At lunchtime, soak up the aroma of an Italian deli with soft panini and crispy pizza. Try the Alexandrine panini with French butter, Edamer cheese and ham for a French twist, or grab a slice of primavera pizza topped with prosciutto parma and stracciatella. On Thursdays and Fridays, Doughcraft’s wine bar takes centre stage with aperitivo cocktails and Italian and French wines. Pair your drinks with a charcuterie board packed with sharp cheeses, cured meats and juicy fruits. Whatever time of day you visit, the bright, airy dining space will welcome you. Gather with friends around cafe-style tables or take a moment for yourself with a plush seat up at the counter.
For one of the best family-friendly restaurants in Brisbane – visit Vapiano in Mount Gravatt, the Brisbane CBD, Springfield Central and Carindale
With outposts in Mount Gravatt, the Brisbane CBD, Springfield Central and Carindale, the laid-back, spacious interiors of Vapiano are perfect for family get-togethers. The relaxed, kid-friendly atmosphere is complemented with fun frozen cocktails and jugs of Long Island iced tea for the adults. Order some garlic bread or an antipasti board for everyone to share before digging into bowls of creamy pasta. This includes vegan options like the vegan crema di funghi with a plant-based lentil cream. Alternatively, share slices of aromatic truffle oil pizza topped with smoked ham and mushrooms, or try the luxurious burrata and prosciutto topping, dripping with Italian flavours. A particular highlight for families is the kids’ menu, which includes adorable mini pizzas with olive eyes, cherry tomato noses and onion ring smiles. Non-alcoholic drink options go beyond the classic soft drinks with house-made lemonade and fun, fruity mocktails.
📍 Mount Gravatt — Check availability
📍 Brisbane CBD — Check availability
📍 Springfield Central — Check availability
📍 Carindale — Check availability
For one of Brisbane’s best Italian restaurants in the inner city suburbs – check out Factory 51 in Coorparoo
Keep an eye out for a red-brick warehouse with golden lights and you’ll find Factory 51, nestled in the heart of Coorparoo. Dine indoors in the rustic-chic dining space or head outside and enjoy a relaxed evening under fairy lights and potted plants. Factory 51 brings an artisan, homemade touch to its menu of elevated Italian classics. Try the wood-fired pizzas made with hand-stretched, cold-fermented dough and topped with creamy cheese and fresh tomatoes. Hand-crafted semolina pasta cooked to that perfect al dente bite is always a big hit, whether you enjoy it with braised beef ragu or juicy prawns. For a meatier option, the kitchen takes its time cooking tender meats on a low, slow heat, like the slow-roasted organic wild pork. Pair your dishes with one of the local beers on tap or choose between a range of international and Australian wines. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, with smooth white chocolate panna cotta and house-churned gelato available.
For one of Brisbane’s best Italian restaurants since 1984– head to Elio’s Osteria in Carindale
Dine by candlelight at Elio’s Osteria, a moody, independently-owned Italian restaurant in Carindale. If you prefer to sit outside, head out to the courtyard where toasty heaters keep you warm all year round. Lively and welcoming, Elio’s has been in the game since 1984, and it’s the perfect spot for everything from intimate date nights to big catch-ups. Start with some crispy arancini balls filled with earthy truffle and porcini mushrooms. The antipasto plate comes in one-, two- and four-person sizings, making it perfect for sharing. Pasta dishes come in entree and main sizes, with classic options like rich bolognese and specialities like the seafood-packed penne san paulo. Pizzas come in regular, medium and family sizes, so you can share them with the whole table. You’ll find all your favourite options plus unique choices like the super works topped with meat, mushrooms, olives, tomatoes and more. To round out your food, add a refreshing Italian salad or some thrice-cooked duck-fat potatoes on the side. For drinks, choose between the curated selection of beer, wine and spirits or BYO for a small corkage fee per bottle.
For one of the best tasting menus in Brisbane – book at Como Restaurant in South Brisbane
Como Restaurant takes inspiration from many regions across Italy, but particularly the refined opulence of Lake Como’s picturesque shores. Relax in the luxurious, mood-lit dining space and try the seasonal menu with ingredients sourced from Italian artisans and Australian farmers. Start with freshly shucked oysters served with mignonette, finger lime or caviar. Creamy burrata and soft focaccia make excellent starters, while light bites of crispy parmesan puffs and juicy crab quke are perfect for sharing. Try the spaghetti with champagne lobster and add some caviar on top if you’re feeling fancy. Mains include a juicy cut of Cabassi Wagyu, sourced from a local Queensland farm, and flaky salmon enhanced with tangy flavours of fennel, dill and lime. For dessert, try a refreshing coconut sorbet or a rich pizzetta dolce.
For one of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane for brunch – try Il Baretto espresso bar in Albany Creek
Pop in for a coffee, a light lunch or a full brunch at Il Baretto espresso bar in Albany Creek. Start your day with some fluffy pancakes with ice cream and your choice of syrup. Juicy burgers and refreshing salads are available all day, making them perfect for brunch. For lunch, try some creamy Tuscan chicken gnocchi or enjoy slices of smokey BBQ meat lover pizza. The kids’ menu includes crazy pancakes with an upside-down ice cream cone and a few extra sprinkles and creamy milkshakes. The wide doorways welcome you into a spacious restaurant and cafe where a central counter displays that day’s ready-to-go pastries and sandwiches. Live music amps up the lively atmosphere every second Sunday and everyone is always welcome, even your furry friends.
With antipasto platters, classic pizza toppings and handmade pasta, the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane always have something special to try. Plus, with options for vegan and gluten-free diners, everyone can get together and enjoy their favourite flavours. Add on unique cocktails, Italian wines and Australian beers and you’ve got a feast on your hands. Whether you’re after a touch of luxury, laid-back vibes or picturesque views, these restaurants have something for you.
Explore more of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane on OpenTable today.
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