Winnifred’s, Fortitude Valley

Step into Brisbane's breathtaking Champagne bar and French bistro, flaunting an impressive and diverse Champagne list of over 1400 bottle. With a golden hued garden for al fresco sips, intimate Champagne Bar with a full cellar including take-home purchase options and an elegant bistro serving contemporary French delights, you’ll never want the bubbles to stop pouring. 

Exhibition Restaurant, Brisbane City 

Perched on Edward Street, in the heart of The City is an intimate 24-seat restaurant known as Exhibition. Aiming to provide guests with a multi-sensory dining experience. Here, head chef and owner, Tim Scott, draw inspiration from live theatre and the evolving seasons, to produce dishes that use only the freshest produce available.

Perspective Dining, Fortitude Valley

If you are looking for one of the most unique foodie experiences in Brisbane, then look 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.

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.

Golden Avenue, Brisbane City

Step off Edward Street into a skylit Levantine oasis where pink granite, sprawling greenery, and incredible food collide. From the team behind Agnes, sAme sAme, and Biànca, Golden Avenue delivers woodfired breads, charcoal-grilled lamb, cloud-light falafel, and Middle Eastern feasting across tiered garden terraces. This is Babylon, Brisbane style.

Aunty, Fortitude Valley

Brisbane has a brand-new member of the culinary family, and she goes by the name Aunty. Located on Wandoo Street in Fortitude Valley, Aunty’s menu is packed with bold modern Asian flavours, unique twists on proven classics, and plenty of dishes made for sharing.

Marlowe, South Brisbane

Housed in a heritage-listed Art Deco apartment block, Marlowe is an elegant Australian bistro taking centre stage in Fish Lane. From the team behind iconic venues like Rick Shores, Norté, and Central, Marlowe blends nostalgic comfort food with a modern, hyper-seasonal twist, placing local produce and artisan ingredients at the forefront of their menu.

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.

Boom Boom Room, Brisbane City

Descend into Brisbane's most opulent supper club, hidden in a heritage-listed bank vault beneath the streets. Boom Boom Room serves yakitori street food and pristine sashimi with live soul, jazz, and burlesque performances, before transforming into DJ-fuelled late-night energy. Complete with theatrical cocktails, curved velvet booths, and private lounges behind original vault doors, this is pure underground glamour.

STILTS, Brisbane City

Perched 10 metres above the Brisbane River atop Kangaroo Point Bridge, Stilts is Queensland's first restaurant on a bridge. A love letter to the classic Queenslander and elevated in every sense, this is one of Brisbane’s best restaurants for those who want to dine with a view.

Venner, West End

If Scandinavian cuisine conjures up images of Swedish meatballs and smoked herring, West End restaurant Venner is here to prove to you that Neo-Nordic cooking is so, so much more. From the creative minds behind Brisbane hotspots Milquetoast and Blume, Venner is heavily inspired by the contemporary Nordic culinary movement but firmly grounded in local produce.

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 that 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.

The French Exit, Brisbane City

Feel as though you have travelled halfway across the world and back in time for a moment as you enter The French Exit. Discover the old-world charm, a specifically curated wine list and a parfum of fresh butter and bread ready to welcome you.

Mr Vain, Fortitude Valley

Brisbane’s smoothest restaurant, featuring live jazz music on select nights, moody lighting, pan-Asian delights and a unique cocktail menu, this is your next date night spot.

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

So What Stereo, Fortitude Valley

Named after the iconic Miles Davis track ‘So What’ and inspired by its free-form nature, Fortitude Valley café hotspot ‘So What Stereo’ is endearingly sporadic. With mismatched furniture, coloured walls and eclectic art create, this retro-tinged space has grown to become equal parts vinyl listening bar and an incredible café.

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.

Tom’s Kitchen, West End

Whether you sit inside the beautiful brick building or outside in the garden, the Asian inspired breakfast menu is bound to deliver you a breakfast worth raving about.

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.

Kin, Teneriffe

From a dedicated matcha and hojicha selection to the unique flavour combinations found in the food menu, this neighbourhood café is not one for the faint of heart.

Method to the Madness, Kenmore

Taking inspiration from Indian flavours the menu here surprises and delights no matter what you choose.

Gramps Café, Red Hill

Quality and creativity are not overlooked at Gramps Café, with a thoughtfully put together menu and a wholesome café interior that truly makes you feel like you’re at grandpa’s house (in the best way possible), this is a neighbourhood café not to miss.

Idle, New Farm

You may have heard of Idle for its delicious selection of pastries, breads and cakes - but it’s also home to an all-day dine in menu too. Enjoy alfresco amongst the buzz of coffee enthusiast and be sure to check out the pantry shelves for a goodie to take home.

Bars 

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.

Fountainhead Wine House, Newstead

Drinking wine inside a storeroom may not sound like your idea of a good time, but the team at Fountainhead Wine House have made it work. Hidden down a Newstead driveway, inside a now converted storage space, this cosy wine bar has quickly become one of Brisbane’s go-to-spots for winer lovers who are keen to try something truly unique.

Dark Blue, Fortitude Valley

Located in a cosy space on the corner of Winn Lane, Dark Blue blends industrial and moody aesthetics, with cocktails and wine as their focus. In this intimate, 30-person space, Mediterranean-inspired drinks take centre stage, with the menu highlighting small-batch spirts as well as unique twists on classic cocktails. Wine lovers can expect a wine list which leans towards Argentinean and Portuguese drops.

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.

Bar Brutus, South Brisbane

Almost as if it was plucked straight out of Europe and dropped right into Fish Lane, Julius Pizzeria’s sibling ‘Bar Brutus’ is a cosy spot where chatting with the bar tenders is encouraged and a wine list of Italian drops is joined by an impressive spritz and cocktail menu.

Maker, South Brisbane

Brisbane’s smallest bar, with enormous flavours. Tucked into a small, 10-person hole-in-the-wall venue, Maker is one of Brisbane’s best cocktail bars. Maker’s eclectic style focuses on unique, seasonal cocktails, paired with a small menu of delicious share plates from the charcuterie cabinet. This spot proves that good things come in small packages.