Opa, Brisbane City

Celebrate your next occasion at Opa Bar + Mezze, one of Brisbane’s best Greek restaurants. Their menu is packed to the brim with traditional Greek foods and a variety of seafood and dessert dishes. To truly experience the flavours of Greece, try their all-day Mezze menu, perfect for waterfront dining along the Brisbane River.

Exhibition Restaurant, Brisbane City 

Deep within the Metro Arts Theatre of Brisbane is an intimate 24-seat restaurant known as Exhibition. Aiming to provide guests with a multi-sensory dining experience, genuinely keeping the legacy of live theatre and visual arts alive; head chef and owner, Tim Scott, draws inspiration on the evolving seasons, using only the freshest produce available.

Perspective Dining, Fortitude Valley

If you are looking for one of the most unique foodie experiences in Brisbane, then search no further than Perspective Dining. An intimate venue where you sit by the kitchen as talented chef, Andrew McCrea (who has only 6% vision), cooks and talks you through his delicious, ever-changing menu that boasts local, seasonal produce.

August, West End

A quaint old church that has had the renovation of a lifetime and has cultivated into one of West End’s best restaurant offerings. Find classic European style eats that have been crafted into sophistication.

Aloria, Brisbane City

Combine seasonal produce, woodfired cooking technique and a sky-high view of Brisbane, and you will find yourself at Aloria. Michelin Star chef Shayne Mansfield is leading the culinary team, guaranteeing an expertly crafted culinary journey in the sky.

Honto, Fortitude Valley

Hidden behind an unexpecting door in a carpark, you will find a passageway to a moody restaurant. Honto delivers contemporary Japanese cuisine, from raw plates, grilled plates, sushi and of course Japanese styles desserts. This complete sensory experience is one not to be missed.

Southside, South Brisbane

Situated in the leafy surrounds of Fish Lane, Southside serves up quality East Asian dishes from its minimalist, industrial restaurant. Dim sum, share plates, noodles and banquets are all on offer and can be perfectly paired with fresh cocktails.

Agnes, Fortitude Valley

In a beautiful old brick warehouse, tucked away in Fortitude Valley, you'll find the wood-fired cooking delights of Agnes. The ethos: Cooking stripped back to its primordial elements, food cooked over a flame and flavoured with a variety of different woods and prepared in exciting ways. From the brilliant minds of sAme sAme and Honto, Agnes is sure to set your heart ablaze. 

Sasso Italiano, Woolloongabba

Another indulgent Italian restaurant to add to Brisbane’s carb-loaded list? Count us in! Brisbane’s neighbourhood Italian bar and trattoria is serving up old-school, unforgettable Italian eats alongside a natural wine and rich Negroni. A simple ethos: good food, dim lights, ambience, good times. We’re there.

SK Steak & Oyster, Fortitude Valley

Any guesses as to what SK Steak & Oyster will be dishing up? Unfortunately, there’ll be no prizes for guessing correctly, as fresh seafood and prime cuts are the obvious hero of this menu. This sophisticated venue on James Street is the perfect blend of land, sea and wine.

Essa, Fortitude Valley

A unique dining experience in the heart of James Street. Book in for dark, moody yet charismatic vibes that give you an escape from the expected. Boasting a carefully curated seasonal menu, the kitchen prides itself on not only creating meals that will have you asking for more but showcasing the work of local farmers and producers. Their harvest driven dishes pair unexpected ingredients to create familiar flavours that will have your taste buds soaring. Featuring raw, pickled, smoked and wood-fired dishes, Essa is truly an experience that evolves with every visit.

Baja, Fortitude Valley

This isn’t your regular run-of-the-mill Mexican you grab for a quick, takeaway lunch, because Baja has style, and a long, relaxing lunch or dinner is the best way to enjoy this modern Cali-Mex cuisine. You’ll feel right at home in the warm and aesthetic interior, but it’s the menu you’ll be gushing over.

joy. Restaurant, Fortitude Valley

This tiny space (we’re talking only 10 seats in its entirety) has an ever-changing menu depending on inspiration at the time so you’ll never know what to expect – except that it will always be delicious, of course.

sAme sAme, Fortitude Valley

Walk past the arched James Street entrance to the Calile Hotel, down Ada Lane and into popular restaurant-slash-bar sAme sAme. Bringing the heat, energy and flavours of Southeast Asia into Brisbane in a minimalist concrete and leafy restaurant. Sip on a refreshing cocktail as you watch the chefs cook away in the open and central kitchen, preparing your next culinary journey

Hellenika, The Calile, Fortitude Valley

Popular with those who live for all things aesthetically pleasing, The Calile’s Hellenika has a distinctly Greek flavour. The restaurant sprawls the length of the sparkling hotel pool, with poolside cabanas and patio dining options for those looking to catch the breeze and soak up Brisbane’s sun or sit in the restaurant for an elegant look and feel.

Stanley, Howard Smith Wharves

This Howard Smith Wharves eatery has all of us turning heads at the stunning two-storey interior and delectable menu. This Cantonese restaurant has a menu that ventures outside the box, creating a special and unforgettable foodie experience.

Babylon, Brisbane City

Picture this: a balmy Brisbane afternoon, Mediterranean food and refreshing cocktails by the waterside. Perched on the Brisbane River and spanning three levels, Babylon has an intimate indoor dining area, private events space and an expansive outdoor set-up clad with subtropical greenery and deep timber accents.

Mosconi Restaurant & Wine Bar, Fortitude Valley

Serving crisp wines and specialty cocktails alongside a menu of European-inspired delights, Mosconi is a little hidden gem worth to be sought out. You can pop by for a nibble and a drink or stay for a full feast – we think the latter is most likely.

Pilloni, West End

A Sardinian inspired restaurant and bar makes you feel like you have stepped into a slice of old-world Italy. With traditional Sardinian dishes that incorporates a contemporary touch, from entrees to dessert, you’ll be wanting to come back.

The 203, Fortitude Valley

Whether you are looking to indulge in a gourmet steak, or looking for unbeatable Italian-style cooking, The 203 is setting the bar high. Striving to rank among the world’s top 100 steak restaurants globally, this is a place not to be missed.

C’est Bon, Woolloongabba

Step into Parisian luxury at this intimate French dining haunt. Feast on delicious and delicate French food and indulge in their exquisite wine list. With a rooftop bar slinging cocktails, perfect for catching the sunset, as well as a moodily lit downstairs bar for those in search of a nightcap, be prepared to spend the whole evening at C’est Bon.

Cafés

Snug, Cooparoo

Tucked away in Coorparoo, Snug is serving delicious Asian inspired brunch and St. Ali coffee. As the name suggests, this is an intimate café that provides a cosy atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the snug eats and drinks.

Naim, Paddington

A modern Middle Eastern café that offers both a regular and plant-based all-day menu to cater for everyone. The beautifully platted and bold flavoured dishes will warm you from the inside out.

Pawpaw, Woollongabba & Balmoral

Both a café and a restaurant, Pawpaw is delivering some delicious South-East Asian inspired dishes. With a fresh ambience, it is the perfect spot to bring your friends and enjoy some delicious food.

Felix for Goodness, Brisbane City

Found in Burnett Lane, just off Queen Street Mall, is a hidden café serving delicious, healthy, and seasonal dishes every day. You can also find some Felix merchandise such as coffee cups, or edible joys like a range of jams and sauces.

The Green, Fortitude Valley

Located in the James Street precinct is a lush escape serving Lebanese food with inventive twists incorporated into each dish.  After generations of family members perfecting these plates, the owners now share the love through each flavoursome powerhouse dish.

Farmhouse, Kedron

Tucked away in the Brisbane northern suburbs, Farmhouse offers farm-like charm with a touch of modern brightness. Find fresh and seasonal breakfast servings that feature unique and flavourful combinations.

Florence Café, Camp Hill

Florence Café is serving a seasonally rotating menu that is distinctive and delicious. The sourdough (not so) flatbread is a must try, along with the freshly baked goods and smooth coffee.

Morning After, West End

Locally sourced ingredients create incredible breakfast plates at Morning After located in Brisbane’s eclectic West End. It’s not just for mornings after but is the perfect breakfast spot to indulge in a sweet or savoury plate for any morning before roaming the nearby boutiques.

Mulga Bills, Brisbane City

Situated on the Brisbane River, Mulga Bills has got your morning covered. Whether it’s a takeaway coffee as you walk through the neighbouring City Botanic Gardens, or to sit in for a woodfired breakfast as the sun reflects off the water, you won’t leave disappointed. 

Goodfolk, Bardon

Locally sourced and garden grown ingredients, make for moreish breakfast eats. Goodfolk is a funky café loved by locals and considered a hidden gem amongst the quiet suburban area.

Coffee Anthology, Brisbane City

Recently ranking as the eighth coffee shop on the World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2025, Coffee Anthology is not to be missed. Be sure to grab a meticulously crafted coffee to pair with a flaky pastry when visiting The City.

Industry Beans, Brisbane City & Newstead

Industry Beans is not just your run-of-the-mill cafes. Pay a visit for a unique brunch and coffee experience, including the working coffee roastery, coffee greenhouse and coffee bar. The menu is seasonal and changes every three months, so while it’s not great for your attachment issues it is great for your belly.

Sister, Hawthorne

Sister is pouring quality coffee with Single O and serving up some classic breakfast items with a twist like ‘avocado’, and some unique items like the ‘breakfast gnocchi’. The smells flowing from the café will draw you in from anywhere on Hawthorne Road.

James & Antler, Fortitude Valley

Frappe and a croque? Meet James Street’s viral venue, James & Antler. Serving delicious croques topped with a generous layer of Manchego cheese, along with thick and cold shaken frappes - what more could you want!?

Rise, Hamilton

A chic French bakery where the pastries are made fresh daily in house. Both the sweet and the savoury will transport you to that little French patisserie that you have been dreaming about.

Bars

Next Episode, South Brisbane

This hidey-hole bar is hidden in the backstreets of South Brisbane, only noticeable by a neon sign and lit-up barber’s pole. Once found, enjoy signature cocktails, artisan spirits, craft beers and wine within the confined walls of this 35-seat speakeasy bar.

Stan’s Lounge, Howard Smith Wharves

Fit out with a vintage JBL sound system and DJ’s creating the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the old-world Hong Kong inspired bar with a modern twist. Found on the second level of Stanley’s restaurant at Howard Smith Wharves, Stan’s provides handcrafted martinis and Cantonese-inspired snacks.

Bar Miette, Brisbane city

Beside the Brisbane River, with perfect views of the Story Bridge is Bar Miette, a European inspired bar. Whilst you’re sipping on one of the bespoke cocktails, enjoy the unique snacks or sandwiches.

Milquetoast, Brisbane City

Down a laneway on Elizabeth Street and in a garage, you wouldn’t expect to find a thoughtful wine bar. Open from Tuesday to Saturday evenings to bring warmth, passion and quality to each sip and everyone that joins.

Club Felix, Brisbane City

Sophisticated, seductive and indulgent are the three words to describe your experience at Club Felix. Enjoy delectable sips and small plates to pair as you allow yourself to lose track of time.

Maya, Fortitude Valley

Bring on the margaritas. With its breathtaking views over the Brisbane and beyond this is the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and high quality Mexican street food. Picture fresh Australian produce cooked in the authentic style of the Maya region of Mexico with a touch of Coastal Pacific, Yucatan, and Sonoran influences. Plates are designed to be shared and enjoyed family style.

Lefty's Music Hall, Caxton Street

Lefty’s Music Hall brings American vibes combined with a modern-day flare. This much-loved venue’s quirky old-timey décor has kept this a long-term favourite among locals and Caxton Street goers.

The Terrace, South Bank

The Terrace within South Bank’s Emporium Hotel provides panoramic city views, delicious cocktails, fluffy bar stools that blend in with the clouds, and an all-day food menu to keep you hydrated and hunger-free.

Felons Brewing Co, Howard Smith Wharves

Sit along the riverbank and toss back a cold one at Felons Brewing Co. Sitting under the Story Bridge at Howard Smith Wharves, the beer is freshly brewed on site within the confines of the old heritage sheds.

Death & Taxes, Brisbane City

Who knew the mastermind behind Cobbler, Dr Gimlette and Finney Isles still had the energy to do anything else, but he's surprised (and delighted) us all by with another joint down Burnett Lane. Wander through double wooden doors to find a moody lounge bar encompassing low light, leather couches in the back room and shelves lined with delectable drops ready for any liquor connoisseur to sip and enjoy.

Mr Percival’s, Howard Smith Wharves

We’re channelling those endless summer vibes at Mr Percival’s  overwater bar. Drop in for a lazy lunch on the deck, aperitifs at sunset and live music to ease you into the night as you look back onto the city. Did we mention it’s directly under the Story Bridge?

Iris Rooftop, Fortitude Valley

Iris has you covered for the ultimate afternoon drinks.  With lively tunes, Mediterranean-inspired eats like slow-cooked lamb shawarma and flatbread with handmade burrata and Baba Ghanouj, fruity cocktails, and stunning views of the city skyline – this venue can’t be beat. No excuses, get your head in the clouds and experience a touch of luxury.

By Artisans, West End

Calling all gin lovers, find West End’s premier gin distillery, offering personal blending experiences and workshops, or a bright and airy place to sit and enjoy a quality G&T with unique flavour combinations.

Aizome Bar, West End

A moody, blue scoped room with detailed finishings, is serving innovative, Japanese cocktails and bites. This intimate setting, seats no more than 10 customers at a time, allowing for quite sophistication and attentive service.

Valley Hops Brewing, Fortitude Valley

What’s the ultimate Sunday session location? A rooftop brewery. Jump in an elevator up to the carefully designed and full-of-life brewery, complete with rooftop views, woodfired pizza and a charcoal grill. What more could you want?

Hibiscus Bar and Terrace, Brisbane City

Celebrating Brisbane’s sunshine state of mind, this poolside restaurant and bar is keeping summer alive, all year long. Although the atmosphere is laid-back, their menu is exploding with flavour. From Southern Queensland lamb loin chops to the chef’s signature casserole du jour which is seasonally shifted, Hibiscus Room needs to be on top of your dining agenda.

Ach wine bar and bistro, Hamilton

A middle eastern inspired bar has a wine list that is travelling from Turkey, Israel, and Lebanon, and serving up dishes prepared over an open fire. Ach aims to bring a taste of the Middle East to Brisbane, showcasing the unique flavours and mastery of the craft.

Midtown, South Brisbane

If you are looking for a New York City escape, then Midtown is the perfect bar to sip a martini at. Divided into three sections, uptown, midtown and downtown, you can choose which vibe will best suit you.

Fiume Rooftop Bar, Howard Smith Wharves

Positioned on the rooftop of the Crystalbrook Vincent overlooking Howard Smith Wharves to the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge. You can then choose from the al carte menu, or the ‘feed me’ menu when you just can’t decide!

Sunsets, Kangaroo Point

The view from a rooftop bar will just never get old, and Sunsets at Kangaroo Point is no exception. This Mediterranean-inspired venue is intertwined perfectly through both the aesthetic, food and drinks menu, paired perfectly with the sunsets that fall behind the city. Did we mention that there is also great view of the Gabba where you can catch a glimpse of the footy? Toast to drinks with a view.