The Bigsound guide to Brisbane:
Where to eat, drink, sleep and kick on
Rub shoulders with agents, label executives and industry bigwigs as you uncover the next big thing in music. Each September, BIGSOUND transforms Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley into a vibrant hub, showcasing over 120+ of Australia’s hottest new emerging acts.
Across multiple venues, artists take to the stage to share their sound, shaping the future of music and celebrating a new generation of impactful talent. For music lovers, a three-night festival pass is a must. Across 18 venues, artists deliver two high-energy sets over three electric nights. BIGSOUND has a proven track record of launching some of Australia’s biggest names, including Flume, Rufus du Sol, Tones and I, and The Jungle Giants to name a few. Now’s your chance to catch the next big thing before the rest of the world catches on.
This year’s line-up features powerhouse performers like Wafia, Kaiit, Inkabee, Azure Ryder and Hatchie, alongside many other rising stars. Representing a dynamic mix of genres including rock, pop, country, R&B, and more, the performing artists reflect the rich diversity of music, shaping the future of sound.
But BIGSOUND is more than just incredible live music. It’s also where the industry’s brightest minds and leading talent come together to tackle the big issues shaping the music industry today. Expect thought provoking panels featuring Tash Sultana, Briggs, Mallrat and Blur’s Dave Rowntree, who will discuss topics such as TikTok’s influence on music, AI and creativity, the future of Australian music, and First Nations music pathways. With thousands of delegates, artists and speakers coming from all around the world, Fortitude Valley and the wider city will be buzzing from 2 - 5 September 2025.
To help make your time in Brisbane, here’s a guide to help you find the best dining spots, late night dance floors and hotels that keep you close to the action.
Where to eat
With the conference and festival centered in Fortitude Valley, you’ll be looking for places nearby to refuel or unwind between sets and sessions. Here’s our guide on the best places to eat in the neighbourhood.
Coffee and brunch
First things first, a big day at BIGSOUND calls for a caffeinated start and Fortitude Valley has a café for everyone. Kick off at Reverends, well known for their quality brews. For a coffee that doubles as an Instagram moment, The Brooke or Piccolo by Him serve aesthetic sips and delicious treats.
When it comes to breakfast, Illusion by No.5 Cafe delivers all the classics just steps from the action, The New Black also pumps out a short but sweet menu of creative dishes. Down towards James Street, King Arthur champions local produce, and The Green is a Mediterranean oasis that’s perfect for a slower start.
Easy and delicious
If you have an evening music showcase to get to, find something deliciously quick and easy, pop down one of Fortitude Valley’s funky lane ways like Winn Lane or Bakery Lane. These hidden gems are home to eclectic stores selling fashion, jewellery and more to browse before fuelling up at one of the staple restaurants like Ben’s Burgers, Gung Ho! Dumpling and Ramen Bar and 13 Bees Bakery to satisfy those sweet cravings. Just around the corner, Chinatown Mall and surrounding streets are a bustling hub for BYO restaurants and Asian culinary delights.
Dressed-up dinners
If you’re in the mood to elevate your evening, Fortitude Valley has no shortage of renowned restaurants for a refined dining experience. Perspective Dining and Joy Restaurant are both intimate chef’s table venues offering seasonal degustation menus with paired wines. Award-winning Agnes Restaurant delivers unique wood-fired cooking or sAme sAme serves up sophisticated Thai fusion right in the heart of James Street. Gerard's Bistro takes its cues from Middle Eastern cuisine, while warmly sumptuous Penelope Bistro serves share plates, cocktails, wines and a late-night boogie. Cosy restaurant, Mosconi, serves up mouth-watering European flavours, Sushi Room is a trendy omakase restaurant serving only the freshest ingredients and Japanese flavours, and Rosmarino or Bianca are the top spots for Italian fine dining in Fortitude Valley.
Drinks and downtime
If you’ve got time between your favourite speaker or live performance, why not find a quiet corner to sip a cocktail or two and reconnect with friends. Beloved for their classic cocktails and intimate ambience find Finney Isles and Savile Row or for a lively and alfresco atmosphere, Gerries Bar. If you want to take things up a level, and we mean literally higher, Soko Rooftop brings an exotic jungle experience as you overlook Brisbane with 360-degree views or Maya Mexican is an oasis serving margaritas until your heart’s desire.
For something more playful, Netherworld is a gaming diner and bar, filled with pinball machines, arcade games and board games. Beer lovers should head Valley Hops Brewing, Stone & Wood Brewery Brisbane, or locally brewed goodness at Soapbox Beer, and wine drinkers will love the fresh drops at Mr Chester, Dark Red or CRU Bar & Cellar.
Where to sleep
There are plenty of hotels in Fortitude Valley to suit everyone. If you’re chasing a little luxury, live like a celebrity at The Calile Hotel or Ovolo The Valley, both known for their high-end touches and lavish interiors. For something a little edgier, check into The Constance and soak into their colourful decor. Stay on the cusp of Fortitude Valley at Rydges Fortitude Valley, perched on the edge of a bustling King Street adorned with lively restaurants and bars. For something more affordable opt for LyLo Brisbane or Sage Hotel James Street. Or for big groups, relax at cosy pink haven, Miss Midgley’s.
If you can’t find a spot to stay in Fortitude Valley that satisfies, don’t stress – there are still plenty of options in neighbouring suburbs that are within walking distance to all the BIGSOUND action. Check out some of Brisbane’s best stays here.
Wind down or ramp up your Brisbane escape
Whether it’s in between events, or to recoup after a music-filled weekend, there’s plenty to explore in Brisbane. If you need a restful reprise, treat yourself to a luxe spa treatment and completely unwind at Kailo Medi Spa tucked under The Calile Hotel or Atama Head Spa in New Farm.
Stroll the luxury outdoor shopping and dining precinct James Street, or head to the city to explore the vibrant Queen Street Mall. Across the River are the iconic South Bank parklands and Streets Beach, the perfect place for a picnic or a refreshing dip in an inner-city oasis. See the world from a new perspective at Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA), catch a renowned show or live performance at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), or get to know Brisbane’s history and culture at the Queensland Museum.
Looking to keep the party vibes going? Judith Wright Art Centre is a visual and performing arts precinct that features circus, dance, art exhibitions and so much more. Or catch a performance at the Brisbane Powerhouse showcasing comedy, theatre, music and everything in between.
Discover more things to do in Fortitude Valley to keep your itinerary as full, or as restful, as you need.
