If you are looking for somewhere to dine with style, grab a beer or wine with friends, or share some flavourful tapas – you are truly spoiled for choice in Brisbane. The restaurants in this list showcase the best of Brisbane’s unique blend of friendly hospitality, modern ingenuity and stunning natural beauty.
Located: Riparian Plaza Level, 71 Eagle St, Brisbane City
For the very best of Brisbane riverfront dining, visit Tillerman. This spot is known for its fresh produce, high-quality seafood and top-tier service. Head chef, Suwisa Phoonsang-Robbs, prioritises using only the very best, fresh ingredients, treating the produce with respect and letting the flavours of locally-sourced foods speak for themselves. From freshly shucked oysters, to luxurious caviar, this is an unforgettable dining experience.
Located: 29 River Terrace, Kangaroo Point
Nestled on the cliffs of Kangaroo Point, overlooking the river and Brisbane skyline, Joey’s provides a dining experience that feels like a secluded getaway, even in its central location. With stunning 180-degree views that include the Brisbane Botanical Gardens, you can enjoy modern Australian cuisine for lunch or dinner while feeling as though you’re among the treetops. For a simple but punchy light dinner, try the Prawn Pasta with a prawn bisque, cherry tomatoes and chilli.
Located: 641 Ann St, Fortitude Valley
With jaw-dropping views over Fortitude Valley and some of the best wood-fired pizzas in Brisbane, it’s no wonder that Valley Hops Brewing has been getting rave reviews. Not only is this brewery situated on a rooftop, but its glass walls and roof make you feel as though you’re floating through the sky itself. The brewery boasts six Fortitude Valley brewed beers – ranging from the more traditional Diehards Lager to the exotic Fiesta Mango & Passionfruit Sour. For something a little different to your traditional Margherita pizza, try one of their Pizza Bianco’s with a base of Olive Oil and Fior di Latte Mozzarella.
Located: 25 Caxton St, Petrie Terrace
This colourful and authentic Mexican restaurant offers fun, flavour and fire. One of the only places in Brisbane where you can find authentic Birria tacos, La Carmela also offers an extensive cocktail list, beer garden and friendly service. Nestled right in the heart of Brisbane’s nightlife district, it’s a perfect spot to start or end your Brisbane adventures while enjoying an authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience.
Located: 40 Fox St, Albion
With a story as interesting as the restaurant itself, Fonzie Abbott is the only place in the world that houses a roastery, distillery and brewery all under one roof. With a modern Mediterranean menu, each of Fonzie Abbott’s 100 tables receives high-quality service and glorious food. And, of course, you can sample any one of the marvellous wares produced in-house, from an early morning coffee to a late-night IPA. With a special kids menu, and great vegan and gluten free options, Fonzie Abbott’s is one for the whole family!
Located: 34 Burnett Ln, Brisbane CBD
Snuggled in a laneway at the heart of Brisbane CBD, don’t be fooled by Alba’s size; this restaurant and wine bar pack a punch. Inspired by the small family bars and eateries (known as Pintxos) in Spain, Alba Bar and Deli boasts an incredible Spanish menu and drinks selection to match. For a unique bar-snack, try one of their Conservas (Spanish canned seafood), served with confit garlic, house butter and warmed house bread.
Located: Shop B11 Little Stanley St, South Brisbane
Serving up a fresh take on brunch, Poppie’s is a modern and vibrant venue that focuses on great food, catering for everyone, and practising sustainability. Perfect for those who love to share or sample multiple dishes, the menu features a range of snacks as well as mains (with a variety of options for different dietary requirements). A must-try is the Breakfast Gnocchi, served in a creamy sauce with a poached egg, crispy bacon, deep fried enoki and cured yolk.
Located: Shop 1, 27 James St, Fortitude Valley
This modern Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant specialises in mouth-watering charcoal-grilled meats and freshly prepared, flavourful salads. Filled with lush greenery and warm wood tones, you will feel as relaxed as you will be inspired. The extensive menu covers everything from Homemade Breakfast Crumpets to an entire Lamb’s Shoulder Shawarma, but if you’re not sure what to choose, you can sit down to one of The Greens fantastic set menus and let the chef choose for you!
When you’re in Brisbane, you’re in a place like no other, and you should eat like it! Through this list, you can explore the many eating and drinking experiences on offer this October, from rooftop pizzas to riverside brunch.
