Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, Australia, is a city that blends modernity with a laid-back charm, making it a delightful destination for travelers. During my recent visit, I embarked on a culinary adventure, exploring six remarkable dining spots that showcased the city’s diverse food scene. From upscale restaurants to charming cafes, each place offered unique flavors and experiences.
1. E’cco Bistro
Location: 63 Skyring Terrace, Newstead QLD 4006, Australia
Booking Platform: OpenTable, the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: E’cco Bistro is conveniently located in Newstead, a short drive or bus ride from the Brisbane CBD. Public transport options include the CityGlider bus or a quick taxi ride.
Ambiance and Environment
E’cco Bistro boasts a sleek, modern design with an open kitchen that allows diners to observe the chefs at work. The minimalist decor, warm lighting, and comfortable seating create an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. The restaurant also features an outdoor dining area with views of the surrounding neighborhood.
Menu and Pricing
E’cco offers a contemporary Australian menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The pricing is on the higher end, with main courses ranging from AUD 30 to AUD 50. They also offer a tasting menu priced at AUD 95 per person, which I highly recommend for a comprehensive culinary experience.
Dishes and Experience
During my visit, I opted for the tasting menu, which included:
- Entrée: Hiramasa kingfish sashimi with avocado, pickled cucumber, and finger lime. The sashimi was incredibly fresh and beautifully presented, with the citrus notes of the finger lime enhancing the delicate flavor of the fish.
- Main Course: Slow-cooked beef cheek with smoked potato puree, roasted carrots, and red wine jus. The beef was melt-in-the-mouth tender, and the smoked potato puree added a unique twist to the dish.
- Dessert: Lemon curd tart with Italian meringue and passionfruit sorbet. The tartness of the lemon curd was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, and the sorbet provided a refreshing finish.
Nearby Attractions
After dining at E’cco Bistro, you can explore the nearby Gasworks Plaza, a vibrant precinct with a mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options. The Brisbane Powerhouse, a contemporary arts and cultural hub, is also a short drive away, offering various performances and exhibitions.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 9/10
E’cco Bistro offers an exceptional dining experience with its innovative dishes, elegant ambiance, and excellent service. It’s an ideal spot for food enthusiasts looking to indulge in modern Australian cuisine.
2. Gerard’s Bistro
Location: 14/15 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
Booking Platform: Dimmi (TheFork), the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: Situated in the trendy James Street precinct, Gerard’s Bistro is easily accessible by bus or a short taxi ride from the city center.
Ambiance and Environment
Gerard’s Bistro exudes a contemporary Middle Eastern vibe with its chic decor, featuring intricate tile work, wooden accents, and ambient lighting. The restaurant’s courtyard seating is perfect for enjoying Brisbane’s pleasant weather, while the indoor area offers a cozy and intimate setting.
Menu and Pricing
The menu at Gerard’s Bistro is inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, with a focus on sharing plates. Prices for individual dishes range from AUD 15 to AUD 35, while larger share plates and platters can go up to AUD 70. They also offer a chef’s selection menu at AUD 80 per person.
Dishes and Experience
I decided to explore the chef’s selection menu, which included:
- Mezze: Hummus with smoked paprika, labneh with za’atar, and falafel with tahini sauce. The mezze platter was a fantastic start, with each dip offering rich, authentic flavors.
- Main Course: Lamb shoulder with pomegranate glaze, served with flatbreads and a selection of sides, including roasted eggplant and spiced cauliflower. The lamb was succulent and flavorful, and the sides complemented it perfectly.
- Dessert: Baklava with pistachio ice cream. The baklava was delightfully crisp and sweet, while the pistachio ice cream added a creamy, nutty contrast.
Nearby Attractions
James Street is a bustling area known for its boutique shopping, trendy cafes, and art galleries. After dining, you can stroll through the precinct, visit the Jan Murphy Gallery, or relax in one of the many nearby cafes.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 8.5/10
Gerard’s Bistro offers a unique and flavorful dining experience with its Middle Eastern-inspired menu. The vibrant atmosphere and excellent service make it a great choice for a memorable meal.
3. Riverbar & Kitchen
Location: 71 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Booking Platform: OpenTable, the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: Located on the Brisbane River, Riverbar & Kitchen is easily accessible by foot from the city center or via the CityCat ferry service to the Eagle Street Pier.
Ambiance and Environment
Riverbar & Kitchen offers a relaxed, waterfront dining experience with stunning views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge. The open-air layout, nautical decor, and casual seating make it an ideal spot for both daytime and evening dining. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, perfect for socializing with friends or family.
Menu and Pricing
The menu features a mix of Australian and international dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Prices are moderate, with main courses ranging from AUD 20 to AUD 40. The restaurant also offers a selection of share plates and snacks.
Dishes and Experience
During my visit, I sampled several dishes, including:
- Starter: Salt and pepper calamari with aioli. The calamari was perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside and tender inside, with the aioli adding a delicious creamy element.
- Main Course: Grilled barramundi with roasted vegetables and lemon butter sauce. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the lemon butter sauce enhanced its natural taste.
- Dessert: Mango pavlova with passionfruit coulis. The pavlova was light and airy, with the tropical flavors of mango and passionfruit providing a refreshing finish.
Nearby Attractions
Riverbar & Kitchen is located near several major attractions, including the Eagle Street Pier, which offers a range of dining and shopping options. You can also take a scenic walk along the Brisbane River, visit the nearby City Botanic Gardens, or enjoy the views from the Story Bridge.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 8/10
Riverbar & Kitchen provides a delightful dining experience with its picturesque location, relaxed atmosphere, and tasty menu. It’s a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family while enjoying the beautiful river views.
4. Julius Pizzeria
Location: 77 Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Booking Platform: TheFork (Dimmi), the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: Julius Pizzeria is conveniently located in South Brisbane, just a short walk from the South Brisbane train station and the Cultural Centre bus station.
Ambiance and Environment
Julius Pizzeria offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere with its open kitchen, where you can watch the chefs expertly prepare wood-fired pizzas. The rustic decor, featuring exposed brick walls and wooden furnishings, adds to the authentic Italian feel. The seating arrangement includes both indoor and outdoor options, making it a versatile spot for any weather.
Menu and Pricing
The menu at Julius Pizzeria focuses on traditional Italian cuisine, with a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas, pasta dishes, and antipasti. Prices are reasonable, with pizzas and pasta dishes ranging from AUD 20 to AUD 30. The restaurant also offers a variety of Italian wines and cocktails.
Dishes and Experience
I indulged in a few of their specialties, including:
- Starter: Arancini balls with mozzarella and saffron. The arancini were perfectly crispy on the outside, with a gooey, cheesy center that was incredibly satisfying.
- Main Course: Margherita pizza with fresh tomato, mozzarella, and basil. The pizza had a perfect thin crust, a well-balanced tomato sauce, and high-quality mozzarella, making it a classic yet delightful choice.
- Dessert: Tiramisu. The tiramisu was creamy and rich, with just the right amount of coffee flavor and a light dusting of cocoa on top.
Nearby Attractions
Julius Pizzeria is situated near the South Bank Parklands, a popular area with lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions like the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and the Queensland Art Gallery. After your meal, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Brisbane River or enjoy one of the many events and performances held in the area.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 8.5/10
Julius Pizzeria offers an authentic Italian dining experience with its delicious wood-fired pizzas and vibrant atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for pizza lovers and those looking to enjoy a casual meal in a lively setting.
5. Otto Ristorante
Location: Level 4, 480 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia
Booking Platform: OpenTable, the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: Otto Ristorante is located in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, easily accessible by foot or public transport, with several bus and train options nearby.
Ambiance and Environment
Otto Ristorante offers a refined dining experience with stunning views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge. The interior is elegant and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows, crisp white linens, and contemporary artwork. The outdoor terrace is a highlight, providing an exquisite setting for alfresco dining.
Menu and Pricing
The menu at Otto Ristorante is inspired by modern Italian cuisine, featuring a range of antipasti, pasta dishes, and main courses. Prices are on the higher end, with main courses ranging from AUD 40 to AUD 60. The restaurant also offers a degustation menu for AUD 120 per person, which provides a curated selection of their best dishes.
Dishes and Experience
For my visit, I opted for the degustation menu, which included:
- Entrée: Fresh oysters with mignonette sauce and lemon. The oysters were exceptionally fresh, with a briny flavor that paired perfectly with the tangy mignonette sauce.
- Main Course: Duck breast with polenta, fig, and marsala jus. The duck was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a rich and flavorful sauce.
- Dessert: Dark chocolate fondant with hazelnut gelato. The fondant was decadent, with a molten chocolate center that was perfectly complemented by the nutty gelato.
Nearby Attractions
Otto Ristorante is close to some of Brisbane’s most iconic landmarks, including the Story Bridge and the Brisbane Riverwalk. You can take a scenic walk along the river, enjoy the views from the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, or explore the nearby Eagle Street Pier.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 9/10
Otto Ristorante offers an upscale dining experience with exquisite Italian dishes and breathtaking views. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or a sophisticated night out.
6. Little Big House
Location: 18 Southpoint, 271 Grey St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia
Booking Platform: TheFork (Dimmi), the restaurant’s official website
Getting There: Little Big House is conveniently located near South Bank, easily accessible by train or bus. The South Bank train station is just a short walk away.
Ambiance and Environment
Little Big House is a vibrant and quirky venue housed in a beautifully restored heritage building. The eclectic decor, featuring colorful murals, vintage furniture, and a playful atmosphere, makes it a fun and unique place to dine. The outdoor beer garden is a highlight, offering a relaxed space to enjoy Brisbane’s warm climate.
Menu and Pricing
The menu at Little Big House focuses on pub-style comfort food with a modern twist. Prices are reasonable, with main dishes ranging from AUD 15 to AUD 30. The venue is also known for its creative cocktails and a wide selection of local craft beers.
Dishes and Experience
I enjoyed a variety of dishes, including:
- Starter: Spicy buffalo wings with blue cheese dip. The wings were crispy and spicy, perfectly complemented by the creamy and tangy blue cheese dip.
- Main Course: Chicken schnitzel burger with slaw and fries. The schnitzel was crispy and juicy, served in a soft bun with a delicious slaw that added a nice crunch.
- Dessert: Cheesecake with berry compote. The cheesecake was creamy and smooth, with a tart berry compote that provided a lovely contrast.
Nearby Attractions
Little Big House is located in the lively South Bank area, close to attractions such as the South Bank Parklands, the Queensland Museum, and the Wheel of Brisbane. It’s a great place to start or end a day exploring the cultural and recreational offerings of South Bank.
Rating and Recommendation
Rating: 7.5/10
Little Big House offers a fun and relaxed dining experience with its quirky decor and tasty pub-style food. It’s a great spot for casual meals and drinks with friends, especially if you’re in the South Bank area.
Brisbane’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delightful, offering a wide range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. From the refined elegance of Otto Ristorante to the casual charm of Little Big House, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. My culinary journey through Brisbane introduced me to an array of flavors and styles, each unique and memorable in its own way.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to explore new tastes or simply seeking a great meal in a beautiful setting, Brisbane has plenty to offer.