The best outdoor restaurants in Brisbane celebrate outdoor dining all year round thanks to the city’s mild winters and balmy summers. The subtropical paradise has a growing restaurant and bar scene to rival its city cousins down south, with beautiful rooftops and terraces, sun-filled courtyards and alfresco restaurants where to enjoy the exceptional weather.
Grab a cocktail and some dim sum in a lush, leafy courtyard before a show at QPAC. Watch the sun go down over the city at a luxe rooftop bar. Take the kids to a neighbourhood joint dishing out award-winning Korean chicken.
Whether you’re looking for a stellar date night restaurant, a group dining spot, or a fun night out under the stars, the best outdoor restaurants in Brisbane have a table for you, easy to book on OpenTable.
The best outdoor restaurants in Brisbane to book right now – read on for a guide
For a jungle-set urban oasis – try Southside in South Brisbane
Modern dim sum takes centre stage at Southside, a jungle-like courtyard restaurant just a short walk from QPAC in the Fish Lane development. Operating every night for dinner and Thursday through Sunday for lunch, Southside serves up traditional Chinese wok dishes and house-made dim sum, including their famous potato and truffle spring rolls with spiced vinegar. Dietary requirements are well accommodated, especially vegan selections. The venue’s little sister Kiki next door offers coffee and bahn mi each morning, with cocktails and wines available from midday.
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For a family-friendly gem – book at California Native in Coorparoo
California Native is a vibey neighbourhood restaurant serving up Californian and Cali-Mex flavours for the Aussie palate. The lush outdoor courtyard provides a casual and welcoming atmosphere to bring the kids for fish tacos, or catch up with friends over spicy margaritas. With plenty of vegetarian options, and a family-friendly vibe, this suburban gem offers up dinner from 5pm Tuesday through to Sunday each week.
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For an intimate date night – visit South City Wine in Woolloongabba
South City Wine is the third venue to join Woolloongabba’s South City dining precinct from hotel vets Vincent Lombino and Jared Thibault. Natural wine is the undeniable MVP at this classic European-style wine bar, where the expansive wine list offers a selection of natural drops from local and international vineyards, accompanied by classic cocktails. Indulge in a menu full of quintessential French bistro delights, such as steak frites, escargot and charcuterie. With romantic artwork, dark timber panelling, and round marble tables that spill out onto the pavement, this venue drips with old-world Parisian charm.
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For spectacular riverside views – unwind at Joey’s at Kangaroo Point
Perched atop the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Joey’s offers an all-day excuse to stop and unwind. From a sun-kissed early morning coffee through to a vibrant Sunday brunch onto a romantic dinner for date night, revel in the iconic cliffside dining anytime it suits. Reservations start from 12.00pm each day, and are highly recommended for both lunch and dinner bookings. With live music and dog friends everywhere, you may never find a reason to leave.
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For stellar Neapolitan pizza – book a table at Popolo Restaurant in South Bank
Popolo epitomises the quintessential Italian feasting experience. Venture in for traditional Neapolitan pasta and pizza dishes (including many gluten-free options), finishing with a pistachio panna cotta or a tiramisu. Popolo offers a Tuscan-meets-Brisbane ambiance for both intimate date nights and convivial group lunches. Operating every evening for dinner, and Thursday to Sunday for lunch, book yourself a spot on the lush garden terrace.
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For spectacular city views – try Tillerman Seafood Restaurant in the City
Tillerman Seafood Restaurant is a prized riverside institution. Embrace the breathtaking city views from the large deck as you while away the hours soaking up the sunshine and the breeze. A must-try is the renowned bouillabaisse, which will transport you from the Brisbane CBD to the port of Marseille. Open Tuesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, with extended Sunday lunches, reservations are highly recommended to secure your table at this popular establishment.
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For locally sourced seafood – visit Full Moon Hotel in Sandgate
A breezy 25-minute drive from the city, the 154-year-old Full Moon Hotel is your new seaside retreat. Choose from a selection of 34 beers on tap, an enticing wine list or signature cocktails, all to be savoured against a backdrop of picturesque bayside views. Enjoy the pub-style menu boasting locally sourced seafood, premium steaks, and fresh produce. Ideal for family outings, the dedicated kids space ensures young ones stay happy while parents unwind.
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For the best Korean fried chicken in town – head to Seoulful Chicken in Everton Park
This casual Everton Park joint proudly claims the crown of Brisbane’s top-rated Korean fried chicken. Crowds come for its chicken, which can be enjoyed in original, sweet chilli, or soy-garlic form, among others. Or opt for one of its signature stir-fried marinades, fried chicken burgers or udon noodles. Hailed by The Courier Mail, cherished by DoorDash as a Most Loved Restaurant for four consecutive years, and celebrated by Uber as a consistent Top Eats performer, Seoulful Chicken is a must-try. What the DoorDash and UberEats crowds miss, however, is the secret outdoor alleyway. If you know, you know.
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For a fun night out – grab a drink at Sixes and Sevens in Fortitude Valley
Occupying a charming Queenslander on leafy James Street, Sixes and Sevens is well-loved for its laid-back ambiance during the day, and its nightclub-style vibe once the sun goes down. From cocktails to crisp tap beers and an impressive wine selection, there’s a drink for everyone to enjoy in the adjoining alfresco terrace, which comes alive with live DJ music on the weekends. The menu offers a variety of share plates, burgers, house-made pizzas and share boards, and features plenty of dietary-friendly options.
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For a getaway to Italy – don’t miss Olive and Angelo in Brisbane CBD
Experience authentic Italian fare at Olive and Angelo in the CBD. As well as traditional classics, such as ragù arancini, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and homemade pasta and gnocchi, this beautiful restaurant is renowned for offering delicious alternatives for dietary requirements. Options include handmade gluten-free pizza bases and pasta, such as white vegan cheese and coconut feta pizza. The charming intimate vibe of the alfresco courtyard feels like a slice of Italy in the busy city centre.
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For tapas and flame-grilled meats – book a spot at Vaquero in Albion
Hidden within the historic Old Albion Town Hall from the 1880s, you enter Vaquero through a secret speakeasy-style door inside a butcher shop. Once inside, this elegantly casual neighbourhood gem features an open kitchen to showcase its culinary theatre with plenty of fire, smoke and charcoal. The tapas feature croquettes, coal-roasted pork, and charred eggplant with sour cream and macadamia, all meant to be shared in true Spanish style. On the fire, choose between lamb rump, black Angus beef ribs and beetroot with goat’s mousse. Secure your reservation in the inviting courtyard oasis, and pretend you’re in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter for the evening.
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For a top-notch rooftop bar – head over to The Terrace – Emporium Hotel in South Bank
Elevate your outdoor dining, literally, at this open-air rooftop bar on top of the Emporium Hotel. With its weatherproof retractable ceiling, The Terrace rooftop bar starts the day by serving up delicious breakfasts like freshly baked croissants, eggs cooked to your liking and a granola station. In the evenings, dress to impress and sip on a cocktail as the sun goes down. Bask in luxury as you soak up views over South Bank and enjoy dishes such as mushroom tempura, teriyaki beef with truffle sauce, Korean marinated pork tomahawk and seafood platters to share.
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