Where to eat and drink in Brisbane

Whether you're on the hunt for foodie hotspots or looking to mix up your weekend with a moody cocktail or crafty beer, Brisbane is bursting with creativity eateries and buzzing bar scenes. From where to eat in Brisbane to the best bars in Brisbane, here’s your go-to guide for a good time - so get ready to make your reservations in one of Australia’s tastiest cities!

Tucked away in Burnett Lane, Brisbane’s oldest laneway, Death & Taxes is nestled in moody old-world ambience - including the evocative street art of lions and a grim reaper. But once inside you’ll find this speakeasy styled venue is brimming with life, from the award-winning  cocktails to a range of over a thousand spirits. Get started by settling back into one of the plush booths as take of sip of a Maxwell Smart - a concoction led by Nosferatu Blood Orange Gin.

Dr Gilmette

Only a short stroll away, Dr Gimlette also steps you back in time. Situated in one of Brisbane’s oldest buildings, this classy cocktail bar is built around a 9-metre long marble bar, with Italian leather booths that let you slip comfortably into place with one of the venue’s well-known martinis. In fact, Dr Gimlette’s martini carts are laden with gins, vodkas and other spirits, with expert staff on-hand to mix you a creative and bespoke concoction.

The Gresham

Let the good times roll at The Gresham - another quintessential Brisbane bar experience housed in a stylish old-school building (actually, it’s an old bank building). With a strong focus on whisky, the Gresham has also been serving top shelf rum and some of Australia’s best wines since opening in 2013 - not to mention an extensive cocktail list. Book yourself in one of the regular tasting experiences, where expert makers guide you through the sophisticated flavours of the lineup, complete with cheese and charcuterie. 

Feel like sipping a cocktail or two by the pool? Then the place for you is the Soleil Pool Bar. With a line-up of DJs and live music throughout the weekend and an expansive bar inside, it’s the perfect spot for afternoon drinks in the sun and into the night. Signature cocktails include the colourfully titled Egyptian Sun God (rum), Bittersweet Symphony (vodka) and Secret Garden Party (gin).

Known for being a contender for one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, Melrose Restaurant and Rooftop Bar is an experience in itself. Specialising in ‘pan-Asian’ cuisine as well as fabulous cocktails, the southeast Asian influence is a winner in every category - from the traditionally made curries and A La Carte dishes to the Royal Lotus or Bamboo Blossom (vegetarian) Banquet. The cocktails won’t let you down either - try a Silk Road Sour (pisco, lime and aquafaba) or Tuk Tuk Twist (vanilla vodka and lime).

Boom Boom Room

Located in a former bank vault, the opulent Boom Boom Room serves a winning mix of traditional Japanese flavours and contemporary seasonal bites. From yakitori street food to top-notch sushi and sashimi this is also a venue that will cater to all tastes. There are also seasonal events, which offer experiences such as the Takitori Showcase - a culinary tour featuring the chef’s top selection.

Tillerman Seafood Restaurant and Bar 

Building on the experience of riverside dining, Tillerman is a seafood-focused restaurant and bar that brings coastal European flavours to Brisbane’s waterside Eagle Street Pier. Settle back and get ready to savour some freshly shucked oysters, Balmain and Moreton Bay Bugs and signature servings such as the Salt-Baked Murray Cod or the NQ Tropical Painted Lobster. You’ll also find an extensive list of local and international wines as well as bespoke Tillerman cocktails.

Central Restaurant Brisbane 

Located right in the heart of the action, Central’s Hong Kong inspired diner is an ambient venue that serves up Cantonese cuisine with a light contemporary Australian twist. The dim sum are to die for - Crispy Golden ‘Wu Gok’ (with mashed taro and diced baby abalone), Peking Duck Potsticker and Barbecue Pork Puffs (with Manuka Honey and Golden Sesame) a few standouts. Of course, you can match all these delicious creations with one of the inhouse cocktails - including a creative martini list. 

If you’re looking for a fresh craft beer with a riverside view, then Felons Brewing Co. - situated under the Story Bridge - is the place to head. The proud winners of multiple gold awards at the Independent Beer Awards - for ranges that included the colourfully named Imperial Stout, Enjoy the Void, Sun Drenched Fence and Nectarine Queen - you can’t go wrong with a whet of the whistle here. There’s also a great menu to match, with hearty dishes served on the decks by the river and including fare such as fish and chips and great pizza.  

Brooklyn Standards 

Inspired by underground American dive bars, Brooklyn Standard is every bit as cool as you’d imagine - and not shy of unleashing the party vibes. With live music and an even livelier dance floor (did we mention the free table pretzels?), this is the spot to go if you’re in the mood for letting your hair down. There are plenty of great beers and Americanesque cocktails to choose from the Mezcalorian to the Ancho Mama’s Margherita.

Riverbar & Kitchen

For more amazing river views, along with drinks and eats to match, another prime spot in town is the Riverbar & Kitchen on the waterfront of Brisbane River. Their kitchen delivers delicious bites and meals - from the Baked oysters Kilpatrick to the mushroom and black truffle pizza - while the cocktail jugs top up an extra reason for whiling away the hours by the water. There’s also live music and events throughout the year.

Where to stay

For a great Brisbane accommodation option within reach of everything from the best Southbank restaurants Brisbane has to offer to the best bars Brisbane CBD has to offer, The Kingsford is also situated by the lively mix of Portside Wharf bars and restaurants.