Food markets  

01. Held along the waterfront at Manly on the first and third Saturday of every month, rise early to catch the freshest produce at Jan Powers Fresh Farmer’s & Fisherman’s Market. From healthy smoothies to French pastries and crispy dumplings, walk in with an empty stomach and an open mind.

Brunch

02. One of Balmoral’s hidden gems is Little Hideout Cafe. With a selection of locally sourced bites and a back deck seating area, it’s the ideal spot for a walk-in brunch.

03. In its new home of buzzing Stones Corner, the delicious Smug Fig Kitchen & Social offers a top-tier all day brunch menu and excellent coffee, served up seven days a week as well as opening as a bar on Friday and Saturday evenings. On the menu you’ll find all kinds of photographic breakfast creations including ever-changing French toast designs as well as bottomless brunch and the usual fare.

04. Tucked away in the suburbs of Seven Hills and bayside at Wynnum is The Rabbit Hole Cafe, known for its outstanding menu with a friendly smile. From crispy chicken waffles and breaky bao buns to French toast and mimosas, there’s a brunch option for every taste.

05. Fancy taking a seat in a laneway cafe with excellent coffee and mouth-watering vegetarian specials? Pop into Cambridge Lane Espresso + Kitchen in Manly.

06. Start your day right with sea breezes and even better coffee at Groundhog Social, located along the Esplanade at Manly. Whether you need a bold espresso to kickstart your day or a cosy spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or lunch, Groundhog Social boasts a fresh, seasonal menu.

07. Sometimes you’re craving a simple coffee and sweet treat, and Darvella Patisserie in Bulimba is happy to help. With everything made in-house, take your pick of hand-crafted cakes, pastries, and selected delicatessen items inspired by the age-old patisseries of Europe. 

Lunch

08. Not your average local grocer, Hawthorne Garage has a gourmet selection of deli items and fresh produce, perfect for a pack-your-own picnic. Pick your own selection of treats and throw down a rug at nearby Vic Lucas Park for lunch on the river.

09. As Brisbane’s oldest fresh seafood market, you know the takeaway fish and chips at The Fish Factory in Morningside are going to be delicious. Choose your preferred fish either crumbed, battered, or grilled, and set up lunch at Bulimba Riverside Park.

10. Searching for a special occasion lunch spot? Perched on the eastern tip of Manly with wraparound views of Moreton Bay is Manly Boathouse, a modern Australian and seafood restaurant. With several dining areas to choose from, sit back with sea views, the finest locally sourced produce, and an exquisite wine list.

11. Perched over the water with one of Manly’s most remarkable views, is hidden gem Tide on the Jetty. Drop anchor seven days a week, serving up exceptional coffee and breakfast, through to tapas, lunch and dinner, and of course a wide selection of drinks. Tide is the perfect setting for a long lunch or a relaxed afternoon with a cocktail watching the sunset across the harbour.

12. Another option on Manly’s waterfront is the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron, with seated or takeaway snack menus from the Bar and Café or tasty meals under the sails of The Boardwalk Bistro.

Dinner

13. Dine under the stars at Melrose, an Indonesian and Thai-inspired rooftop restaurant on Oxford Street. Expect plenty of chill vibes, flavour and heat.

14. Love Indian food? The Curryville Indian Restaurant in Morningside serves down-to-earth, homestyle dishes including its popular butter chicken curry and handmade samosas.

15. When only Mexican street food will do, Cartel De Taco at Hawthorne offers it in spades. Bringing the authentic flavours of Mexico to Brisbane, share amongst you a mix of tacos, share plates, mains, desserts, tequila, and more.

16. Located on the riverfront Bulimba boardwalk, IL MOLO Italian Kitchen & Bars is a fun and casual Italian eatery, perfect for relaxed meals and sunset drinks on the deck looking over the Brisbane River.

17. Devour the vibrant and local flavours at Medé in Bulimba, where modern Mediterranean cuisine, signature cocktails and world-class wine will take you on a culinary journey. Exuding premium finishing touches to evoke the feeling of a luxurious Mediterranean escape, Medé is the perfect go-to for a special occasion, romantic rendezvous or a casual catchup.

Drinks

18. Passionate about great craft beer? The eastern suburbs of Brisbane have got you covered. Get down to BrewDog taproom in Murrarie, pull up a chair, and choose from a selection of 28 fresh taps brewed just metres away. The menu also rocks a full selection of burgers, wings and big bowl salads.

19. Another craft beer favourite is multi-award-winning Revel Brewing Co on Oxford Street, known for its locally brewed beers bursting with flavour and wood-fire pizzas. The Oxford Taphouse is a cosy watering hole dedicated to the best beer and cider that Australia and New Zealand have to offer. Looking for more of a pub vibe? Head to Revels second location at Rivermakers in Morningside which is well known by locals as the spot for quality schnitty’s and parmi’s.

20. For a touch of Ireland, Celtic Corner Bar & Bistro in Manly is for you. Enjoy live music, a pint of Guinness, and a beef pie with mash and peas — all the essentials of a true Irish pub.

21. Perfectly paired with bayside surroundings, Adelita Wine Bar at Wynnum hosts a relaxed al fresco setting and extensive wine list. Boasting a curated menu of fresh, locally sourced produce and exciting flavours, and bold wine list and craft beer, cider and spirit collections, experience the welcoming and chic atmosphere for yourself.

22. To mingle with the locals, head into the beer garden at The Manly Hotel. Whether you’re stopping by for an after-work drink, catching the game with mates, or settling in for a session, everyone is welcome.

Want to play? Get to know the best things to do in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs.