There’s no better place to be when the sun shines and a gentle breeze caresses The City than on the Brisbane River. For stunning sun-kissed vistas or to watch the twinkling city lights against the water, here are our favourite riverside restaurants to lap up the views, indulge in a drink or two and sample exquisite cuisine.
Floor to ceiling windows allow for the most picturesque views from inside Brisbane’s newest riverside dining restaurant, Supernormal. Offering mouth-watering Asian fusion such as the signature half crispy duck and slow cooked Szechuan lamb shoulder, this Melbourne institution has quickly cemented its place in the Brisbane dining scene.
When river views meet divine dining, that’s Alchemy. Book a seat at the Eagle Street bar and restaurant for expansive floor-to-ceiling views paired with a magical a la carte or degustation menu of relaxed elegance from award-winning head chef Brad Jolly.
Only a few steps away from busy Eagle Street lies Babylon, an urban drinking and dining metropolis, cascading down three levels with an eclectic collection of bars, terraces and vibrant dining spaces overlooking the Brisbane River. Serving a menu inspired by the rich flavours and textures of Levantine cuisine — originating in the southeast corner of the Mediterranean — the aromatic dishes are designed to be shared with family and friends.
Perched high above Eagle St, Bar Pacino shines with a spectacular setting and an Italian-inspired menu of snacks, share plates and delectable dishes. Settle in at a table on the alfresco terrace to enjoy the riverside ambience and killer cocktail list.
With velvet banquettes, a Roaring Twenties vibe and stunning 180-degree views, Blackbird knows how to work its best assets. Sink into a plush booth or book a table on the outdoor terrace and enjoy a seasonal local menu and curated wine list.
Friday’s is a Brisbane institution, serving some of the best waterfront drinks and dining in The City for decades. The terrace features 180-degree views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner.
A sumptuous interior and a covered alfresco deck set the scene for an elegant Asian fusion meal at riverfront hot spot, Madame Wu. With views of the river, Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point, it’s a dining experience to savour. Be sure to indulge in its signature Moreton Bay bug dumplings.
Enjoy an Italian escape at Massimo Restaurant with its tantalizing menu influenced by Italy’s Abruzzo region and Amalfi Coast. Dive into big bowls of house-made pasta, antipasto, whole-cooked fish and seafood dishes at this restaurant by the river.
Savour authentic Brazilian barbecue and the succulent modern flavours of charcoal-grilled meats at Navala Churrascaria. Enjoy vibrant riverfront dining and Latin American food with flavours that will make your tastebuds sing.
Taste the sun drenched flavours of the Mediterranean at OPA Bar + Mezze. Channelling the Greek Islands with a menu of share plates and traditional meals, say "opa” with a refreshing round of drinks as you toast the Brisbane River views.
Bringing a paddock-to-plate philosophy to the Heritage-listed Customs House on Queen Street, Patina showcases the best local and regional fare in a picture-perfect riverside location. Enjoy fresh seasonal produce and local seafood sourced daily, along with mushrooms grown in an on-site cellar.
Back with a stylish new fitout and the same great vibes, Riverbar & Kitchen is Brisbane’s waterfront oasis on Eagle Street. Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a killer cocktail menu and that sparkling river view, it’s a top spot to enjoy the enviable outdoor lifestyle in The City.
Pick up a pinot or Peroni from Riverland’s 80ft bar then pull up a seat at one of its large alfresco tables and soak up the river frontage. This industrial-style beer garden and street food kitchen is built around two shipping containers with a rotating menu of eats and treats available from several enticing market stall vendors.
Premium seafood restaurant Tillerman’s menu is filled with fresh quality produce and ingredients. Rally your friends and make the most of Brisbane’s enviable climate with a five-course lunch banquet on the terrace as you take in up-close views of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge.