In this guide, we’re serving up the absolute crème de la crème – a curated list of the Top 12 must-visit restaurants that are nothing short of a food enthusiast’s dream come true.
So buckle up and brace yourself for a food journey that promises to captivate your taste buds, ignite your senses, and introduce you to a whole new world of extraordinary flavours.
Now, are YOU ready to take a bite out of Brissy’s vibrant food scene? Your unforgettable culinary adventure starts here.
1. Gerard’s Bistro: Middle Eastern Fusion at its Best
First on our list is Gerard’s Bistro, the culinary jewel of Brisbane, where Middle Eastern fusion is not just a concept, but a heartwarming experience. With a menu that perfectly marries Middle Eastern spices with the finesse of Australian cuisine, Gerard’s Bistro stands in a class of its own. Each dish is a carefully crafted masterpiece that takes your palate on an extraordinary journey. Make sure to give \ coal-grilled octopus with smoked butter and almonds, chilli, and strawberries a try! One bite and you’ll understand why it’s heralded as one of the must-try dining spots in town.
It’s more than just the rich, layered flavours that amaze, it’s the whole package: the welcoming atmosphere, the passionate chefs, and the culinary creativity. So, if you’re looking to break away from the mundane, it’s time you treated yourself to an unforgettable gastronomic experience at Gerard’s Bistro. Trust us, you’ll be talking about it for days!
Address:
14/15 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm;
Friday to Saturday: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10pm;
Sunday: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm
2. Joy Restaurant: An Intimate Dining Experience
Picture this: a cosy dining space, perfectly curated meals, and the enchanting ambiance of a place that feels just like home. Step into Joy Restaurant, Brisbane’s answer to a uniquely intimate dining experience. This isn’t just any restaurant, it’s a spot where every meal is a personal journey tailored and there is a constant changing set menu.
Nestled in the heart of the city, Joy Restaurant exudes a charm that’s hard to resist. The magic begins the moment you walk in, as the cosy environment invites you to sit down, relax, and truly savour the moment. The menu? A curated work of art that boasts an array of dishes, each brimming with vibrant flavours that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. You’re in for a gastronomical experience that feels like a personal love letter to the art of food. So why wait? Make a reservation at Joy Restaurant today and uncover the intimate dining experience you’ve been missing out on. You won’t be disappointed!
Address:
1/261 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday: 6pm-11pm;
Friday to Saturday: 12pm-3pm, 6pm-11pm;
Sunday: 12pm-3pm
3. Bacchus Restaurant: A Taste of Traditional Australia
Bacchus Restaurant is your ticket to a tour of traditional Australian cuisine, situated in the heart of Brisbane. With its elegant ambience and meticulous attention to detail, Bacchus takes you on a sensory adventure, celebrating Australia’s rich culinary heritage. Imagine walking into a space that exudes sophistication, where every corner whispers a story of tradition, calling you to take part in a uniquely Aussie delectable experience.
The menu features a splendid tapestry of traditional dishes, reimagined for the modern food connoisseur. Picture this: you’re relishing a mouth-watering kangaroo loin or a tender roast lamb, each bite evoking the rustic charm of the Australian outback. The flavours, as diverse as the continent itself, are sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.
But Bacchus isn’t just about the food. It’s also about the stories, the culture, and the warm hospitality that’s intrinsically Australian. So, why wait? Embrace the Aussie spirit at Bacchus Restaurant – where every meal is a celebration of Australia’s culinary journey. Trust us, you’re in for a treat!
Address:
Podium Level, Rydges South Bank, 9 Glenelg St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Friday: 6am-10am, 12pm-2pm, 6pm-9pm;
Saturday to Sunday: 6am-10:30am, 6pm-9:30pm
4. sAme sAme: Thai Fusion with a Twist
Get ready for a taste sensation at Same Same, nestled in James Street, the trendy Ada Lane alongside The Calile in Fortitude Valley. This revamped gem takes the essence of Thai Fusion restaurant: Brisbane’s beloved LoNGTIME, and presents it in a sleek and modern setting, complete with a separate bar area that exudes Thai-inspired vibes. So if you were a longtime fan of LoNGTIME, then sAme sAme should be on the top of your foodie list!
sAme sAme effortlessly blends a vibrant atmosphere with the contemporary Asian dishes you adore but with a bold and serious twist. Looking for recommendations? Indulge in the irresistible soft shell crab bao, tantalize your taste buds with the grilled prawns in curry butter, and brace yourself for an unforgettable experience with the twice-cooked lamb shank massaman curry. It is where familiar flavors meet a newfound attitude, creating a culinary journey that you won’t want to miss.
Address:
49 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 5:30pm-late
5. Detour Restaurant: Plant-Based Perfection
Vegetarians and vegans, rejoice! Detour offers a menu filled with plant-based dishes that don’t compromise on flavour. Enjoy unique mouthwatering dishes that will leave you amazed. From the first bite to the last, you’ll discover a symphony of flavors created using only the finest and freshest plant-based ingredients.
Whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to explore the world of plant-based dining, their menu offers a delightful array of options that will satisfy your cravings. Indulge in a zesty beetroot and quinoa salad, bursting with vibrant colors and a delightful tang. Or perhaps try the signature cauliflower steak, seasoned and grilled to perfection, accompanied by a medley of roasted vegetables.
Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase the natural goodness and versatility of plant-based ingredients. Who says plant-based should be bland and boring?
Address:
11 Logan Rd, Woolloongabba QLD 4102, Australia
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday: 5:30pm-late;
Friday to Saturday: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-late
6. Morning After: Artistic Aussie Brunch
Get your Instagram ready for the beautiful dishes at Morning After. Their artful approach to brunch will satisfy your taste buds and your aesthetic sensibilities. Located in the heart of Brisbane CBD’s West End, this classic white brick cafe offers colorful, delectable, and healthy indulgent meals.
Embracing Australia’s vibrant breakfast culture, Morning After stands out as one of the best brunch places with its captivating and unique dishes. If you’re a fan of crumpets, then this cafe is a must-visit!
Address:
Cambridge St, West End QLD 4102, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 7:00am-3:30pm
7. Donna Chang: Sichuan and Cantonese Flavours Meet
Embark on a culinary adventure down George Street and prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing transformation of a heritage-listed former bank into the enchanting Donna Chang. Stepping inside, you’ll find yourself in a sprawling pink dining room adorned with elegant chandeliers, inviting marble tables, and plush pink booths that can accommodate both large groups and those seeking ultimate comfort.
The charm doesn’t stop there, as Donna Chang delights with Seinfeld-inspired fortune cookies, piquing your curiosity from the start. But it’s the sensational flavors that truly steal the show. Indulge in the freshest rock lobsters, succulent Chinese roasted duck, and tantalizing cumin-spiced lamb dim sums. And don’t forget to save room for the heavenly passionfruit custard buns that will leave your taste buds singing. At Donna Chang, Sichuan influences and authentic Cantonese cuisine come together to create a symphony of taste sensations. So grab your chopsticks and immerse yourself in the culinary wonders that await you.
Address:
Level 2/171 George St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-late
8. OTTO Ristorante: Italian Dining with a View
Get ready to say “Mamma Mia!” This riverside Italian gem lets you immerse in a world of flavors as you explore its enticing menu, with satisfying vegan options, and a thoughtfully curated wine list. And all of this comes with a breathtaking view of the iconic Brisbane River, ensuring your dinner experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
Step inside and be greeted by vibrant interiors that perfectly complement the lively cityscape. Delight in dishes such as the perfectly al dente Blue Swimmer crab ravioli or the locally-sourced squid — all cooked to perfection on the wood grill. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that will transport you to Italy itself.
OTTO has been a beloved part of Brisbane’s dining scene since 2016, offering a sleek and modern take on Italian cuisine that pays homage to classic flavors executed with finesse. Head chef Will Cowper’s commitment to letting the ingredients shine is evident in every dish, with fresh handmade pasta and seasonal, locally-caught seafood taking center stage. So what are you waiting for? Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a casual rendezvous with friends, OTTO promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you craving more.
Address:
4/480 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Opening Hours:
Lunch – Monday to Sunday: 12pm-2:30pm;
Dinner – Monday to Sunday: 5:30pm-late
9. Greca: Merging Tradition with Innovation
Discover the charm of Greca, Brisbane CBD’s beloved Greek restaurant, nestled within the historic Howard Smith Wharves. Step into this old white taverna, where the enticing aroma of charcoal and wood fire grills fills the air, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience. Greca’s menu revolves around vibrant seafood and meats, as well as traditional Greek dishes that may challenge your pronunciation but will surely bring you joy. Indulge in the heavenly saganaki, a fried cheese dish drizzled with honey that has earned its reputation as a must-try delicacy in Brisbane.
Address:
5 Boundary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 12pm-9pm
10. Happy Boy: Authentic Regional Chinese Fare
If you’re up for an authentic Chinese food experience, then you’re going to love Happy Boy. Indulge in the vibrant flavors of contemporary Chinese cuisine at Happy Boy, conveniently located in the heart of Brisbane CBD’s buzzing precinct. With an affordable dinner menu that leaves no cravings unfulfilled, Happy Boy has something for everyone. The house fried rice, a beloved favorite, satisfies with its delicious blend of flavors, while the Beijing duck pancakes offer a delightful combination of succulent meat and delicate pancakes.
Don’t miss the chance to try the crowd-favorite salt and pepper tofu, a dish that will make any meat lover a believer in the versatility and tastiness of tofu. It’s the perfect side dish to accompany your meal or a fantastic option for sharing with friends.
Happy Boy offers flavorful dishes that pack a punch. The beef brisket stew with noodle knots tops the popularity charts, showcasing tender meat and satisfying noodles. For those seeking delectable snacks, the prawn and pork wontons swimming in chili oil and the crisp salt and pepper quail eggs are sure to please. Quench your thirst with easy-drinking cocktails, refreshing Tsing Tao beer, or explore the range of craft beers on offer. Wine enthusiasts will find joy in the thoughtfully curated selection of boutique Australian wines, with friendly staff available to provide expert pairing advice.
Address:
36 Mein St, Spring Hill QLD 4000, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 5pm-late
11. Beccofino: Wood-Fired Wonder
Who doesn’t love a good pizza? If you ever find yourself in Teneriffe, a visit to Beccofino is a must. Get ready to be greeted by the enticing aroma of their wood-fired pizza oven that permeates the restaurant, extending to the inviting outdoor terrace. Delight in their renowned prosciutto pizza, though any of their pizzas will leave you satisfied.
Their pizza menu is thoughtfully divided into tomato-based (pizze rosse) and white cheese-based (pizze bianche) options, with each offering an impeccable taste sensation. And while Beccofino has gained well-deserved acclaim for its exceptional pizzas, their menu has evolved to showcase equally enticing homely mains. Immerse yourself in dishes such as the delicate carpaccio, flavorful veal saltimbocca, and the mouthwatering duck ragu pappardelle. Each bite is an experience that combines elegance with the comforting familiarity of home.
Address:
4/396 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne QLD 4171, Australia
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 5:30pm-late
Conclusion
The food scene in Brisbane is as diverse as it is delectable. With this foodie’s bucket list, you’re sure to experience the very best the city has to offer. From gourmet fine dining to vibrant casual eateries, these must-try restaurants in Brisbane cater to every taste and preference.
What’s Next?
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FAQs
Do restaurants offer vegan or vegetarian options in Brisbane?
Absolutely! Many of these restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Be sure to check out their menus online.
Should I book a table in advance?
Definitely! Most of these restaurants are very popular, so it’s always a good idea to book in advance.
Are Brisbane restaurants family-friendly?
Yes, these restaurants cater to a variety of customers, including families. However, some fine-dining restaurants might be more suitable for adults. Make sure to give them a call before walking in.
Are there gluten-free options available at Brisbane restaurants?
Many of these restaurants cater to dietary requirements, including gluten-free options. It’s always best to check with the restaurant beforehand.
