31 Best Restaurants in Brisbane, Australia in 2025
Looking for the best restaurants in Brisbane? With over 2.4 million people, there’s a lot of art, entertainment and top-notch eateries to enjoy. Soak up the perfect weather, explore urban greenspaces and eat at some of the best restaurants in Brisbane on your next visit to the land down under.
From top-tier fine dining to down-home comfort food and everything in between, the best restaurants in Brisbane have something for every type of diner. Join us as we explore the very best places to enjoy this vibrant city's culinary scene.
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The 31 Best Brisbane Restaurants
1. Exhibition Restaurant
Experience a rare, multi-sensory dining experience deep underneath the Metro Arts Theatre of Brisbane at Exhibition Restaurant. This upscale establishment is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, lauded for its gourmet cuisine and immaculate attention to detail.
The Vibe
Seating only 24 patrons per night, dining at Exhibition Restaurant is a highly coveted event. The sleek, modern dining space invokes an air of exclusivity and utter refinement.
What to Order
This is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane with an omakase-style menu that changes nightly. The head chef personally selects locally sourced ingredients to craft multiple unique courses for an outstanding experience.
Exhibition Restaurant | 109 Edward St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
2. Pneuma
Reconnect to the essence of fine dining at Pneuma Restaurant. As one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, Pneuma’s namesake means the vital spirit, soul or creative energy of a person. It brings this same energy and attentiveness to the exquisite food it creates.
The Vibe
Pneuma is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for fine dining. The interiors consist of reclaimed wood floors and plush velvet accents.
What to Order
Order the delicacy of Hokkaido scallops with smoked onion beurre blanc and decadent tandoori lobster oil. The menu at Pneuma changes frequently so be sure to check with the restaurant about any dietary restrictions or concerns before your meal.
Pneuma Restaurant | 336 George St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
3. Agnes
This minimalist eatery is built entirely around the age-old concept of cooking on an open fire. Agnes is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, known for its simplistic yet delicious food preparation techniques.
The Vibe
The culinary team at Agnes strips cooking to its primordial elements by only using flame-powered cooking methods. The interior follows a similar path of asceticism with a sleek, no-frills dining room and straightforward service.
What to Order
Try the long-fed Angus ribeye with sweet garlic and smoked mustard from the à la carte menu.
Agnes | 22 Agnes St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
4. Essa
Escape the over-consumerism of modern-day life at Essa. As one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, Essa is both raw and considered to find a delicate balance between real whole foods and creative culinary preparations.
The Vibe
Essa has a cool industrial chic aesthetic and offers upscale fine dining. It offers weeknight dinner and lunch on Fridays. On Sundays, it hosts a large family-style lunch.
What to Order
Experience the chef’s tasting menu that changes seasonally. The menu incorporates locally raised meats and organically farmed produce to ensure a flawless meal.
Essa | 181 Robertson St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
5. Gerard’s Bistro
Discover a fresh modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine at Gerard’s Bistro. This upscale casual eatery is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for upscale casual dining.
The Vibe
Eating at Gerard’s is an upscale affair featuring calming dusky interiors and innovative fusion cuisine. Experience Middle Eastern fare like never before.
What to Order
Discover the vibrant Eastern flavours of the Margra lamb collar with spicy saltbush zhoug, creamy labneh, crunchy pepitas and a fresh squeeze of lime.
Gerard’s Bistro | 15 James St., Unit 14, Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$
6. Alchemy Restaurant and Bar
Discover a fresh take on traditional Italian fusion fare at Alchemy Restaurant and Bar. This swanky joint offers a delectable menu and top-notch service.
The Vibe
Dining at Alchemy Restaurant and Bar is an upscale occasion with lunch and dinner options available. The light, bright and airy dining room makes for an enjoyable experience.
What to Order
Celebrate with the Controfiletto Di Wagyu composed of a buttery wagyu strip, boulangere potatoes, caramelized shallots, crisp watercress and rich bone broth sauce.
Alchemy Restaurant and Bar | 175 Eagle St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
7. Biánca
Looking for one of the best restaurants in Brisbane with authentic Italian cuisine? Biánca is an upscale Italian joint that seamlessly blends traditional Italian cooking with contemporary flavours for an unforgettable experience.
The Vibe
This is the go-to spot for great food in a lively yet refined environment. The earth-toned terracotta tiles and golden hour lighting invoke a sense of Mediterranean coastal repose at Biánca.
What to Order
Order the classic handmade agnolotti with pumpkin, brown butter and pine nuts.
Biánca | Shop AM5 Ada Lane, 46 James St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
8. C’est Bon
Experience the French Quarter down under at C’est Bon. This eatery is the best restaurant in Brisbane to enjoy French cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Vibe
Sip wine on the rooftop terrace while enjoying modern French cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Brisbane. C’est Bon is a casual neighbourhood eatery with a welcoming atmosphere.
What to Order
Order the delicate duck parfait tarts with a refreshing side of blackberry or the spring brioche bread baked in-house and spread with red onion jam butter.
C’est Bon | 609 Stanley St., Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia | $$$
9. Greca
Searching for authentic Greek cuisine? Greca is the best restaurant in Brisbane to enjoy authentic Greek food with a contemporary twist.
The Vibe
Experience the vibes of a beloved Greek taverna with modern interiors, spacious outdoor dining areas and gracious service at Greca.
What to Order
Try the classic avgolemono pie, featuring a tangy lemon meringue pie with a crunchy almond crumble base.
Greca | 5 Boundary St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
10. Stanley
Enjoy original Cantonese fare at Stanley. This is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for family-style Chinese cuisine.
The Vibe
The breathtaking waterfront views and calming natural elements make dining at Stanley's an enjoyable family affair.
What to Order
Order the hot and tangy chicken, garlic shoots and dried chilli or enjoy one of the impressive dim sum options such as the savoury XO seafood dumplings.
Stanley | 5 Boundary St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
11. Takashiya
Be immersed in the traditional Japanese omakase experience at Takashiya. This is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Brisbane, known for its 20-course omakase dinner served at the chef’s table.
The Vibe
Experience artistry, unrivalled excellence and utmost luxury with a chef’s table experience. The stripped-back, modern interiors won’t distract from this intimate tasting experience.
What to Order
The multi-course omakase menu is the only option for dining at Takashiya. The offerings change frequently according to the seasonal availability of ingredients.
Takashiya | 267 Grey St., South Brisbane, QLD, 4101, Australia | $$$
12. Baja
Discover a taste of contemporary Mexican cuisine at Baja. Enjoy the vibrant flavours of Latin America at the best restaurant in Brisbane for Mexican food.
The Vibe
Baja is a casual eatery serving modern Mexican cuisine in a relaxed, family-friendly environment.
What to Order
Order the hearty brisket barbacoa with smoked tomato queso, onions and fresh coriander.
Baja | 211 Brunswick St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$
13. Detour
Discover the best restaurant in Brisbane for vegetarian and vegan dining. Detour is an upscale plant-based restaurant that’s innovative and fun, serving planet-friendly cuisine.
The Vibe
This award-winning restaurant is a popular dining destination for plant-based eaters. The beautiful interiors are composed of fresh wood décor and modern design elements.
What to Order
Try the Frazer Island spanner crab from the omnivore menu or the beetroot tartare from the herbivore menu.
Detour | Shop 6, 11 Logan Road, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia | $$$$
14. SK Steak & Oyster
Enjoy a decadent lunch with martinis at SK Steak & Oyster, where the steakhouse menu and exceptional service create an unforgettable experience.
The Vibe
With pristine white tablecloths and sleek modern interiors, SK Steak & Oyster embodies the classic fine-dining experience.
What to Order
The menu is seasonal and changes frequently. Call the restaurant to confirm menu availability.
SK Steak & Oyster | 48 James St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
15. sAme sAme
Experience the heat, flavour and energy of South East Asia at sAme sAme. This eatery is the best restaurant in Brisbane to enjoy Thai cuisine.
The Vibe
sAme sAme has a light and airy interior with plenty of live plants and natural wicker pieces.
What to Order
Try the Kor Moo Yang, a pork jowl with a bright nahm jim jaow (chilli dipping sauce) and a pop of fragrant betel leaf.
sAme sAme | Shop AM3 Ada Lane, 46 James St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$
16. Rogue Bistro
Experience dining outside the norm at Rogue Bistro. This edgy eatery is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for enjoying a chef-curated tasting menu.
The Vibe
The dark and brooding ambience complements the intriguing menu options. Have an unforgettable night at this fancy dinner-only establishment.
What to Order
The five-course seasonal tasting menu rotates monthly. This menu is comprised of locally sourced ingredients for the freshest dining experience.
Rogue Bistro | 14 Austin St., Newstead, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
17. Yoko
Be transported to energetic, 90s Tokyo with a trip to Yoko. This pop-fueled eatery is the best restaurant in Brisbane for an immersive and fun dining experience.
The Vibe
The vintage Japanese décor perfectly complements Yoko’s fun and inviting atmosphere. With waterfront dining, elaborate cocktails and izakaya-style small bites, Yoko is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane to enjoy with friends.
What to Order
Dig into the crispy pork gyoza served with chilli crisp or keep it light with a refreshing cabbage salad tossed with ponzu and laver.
Yoko | Level 3, 5 Boundary St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
18. Restaurant Dan Arnold
Enjoy the upscale creations of a classically trained chef in a relaxed Australian setting at Restaurant Dan Arnold, the best restaurant in Brisbane for French-Australian fusion cuisine.
The Vibe
Restaurant Dan Arnold is upscale but not stuffy. With inviting yet simple décor and breathtaking plating techniques, this is an experience you don’t want to miss.
What to Order
Order one of the many tasting menu options. Three courses, five courses and eight courses are all available at select times with a reservation.
Restaurant Dan Arnold | 10 959 Ann St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
19. Joy
If you're searching for the best restaurant in Brisbane for an unforgettable experience, Joy is a vibrant choice. Its nightly changing tasting menu keeps things exciting.
The Vibe
Joy is a fun and eclectic boutique restaurant that lives up to its namesake. The nightly tasting menu experience is a special occasion worthy without being overly stuffy.
What to Order
The tasting menu is changed frequently to ensure maximum seasonal freshness. Those with dietary restrictions are encouraged to call before attending.
Joy | Shop 7, 694 Ann St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
20. Rothwell’s
Enjoy old-school fine dining and timeless tastes at Rothwell’s. This esteemed eatery is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane to enjoy a classic steakhouse dining experience.
The Vibe
When envisioning Rothwell's, glamorous, timeless and sophisticated come to mind. The rich leather accents, twinkling fairy lights and mysteriously dim dining room make dining an unforgettable experience.
What to Order
Don’t miss the house special beef Wellington with house red wine sauce.
Rothwell’s | 235 Edward St., Brisbane, Queensland, 4000, Australia | $$$
21. Donna Chang
Experience upscale Sichuan dining and Cantonese flavours at Donna Chang. With a menu comprised of locally sourced ingredients and stunning interiors, this is a stop you don’t want to miss.
The Vibe
With stunning mezzanine views, pastel accents and elegant greenery, Donna Chang is probably the best restaurant in Brisbane for capturing a stunning Instagram photo.
What to Order
Splurge on the hearty scallop and prawn wontons with black vinegar and chilli.
Donna Cheng | 171 George St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
22. Southside Bistro
Experience contemporary Asian fusion with a twist at Southside Bistro. Since opening in mid-2015, it has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for a memorable meal.
The Vibe
Southside Bistro is a modern eatery with simple décor and a casual family-friendly atmosphere. This eatery offers brunch, lunch, dinner and a kids' menu to cater to any crowd.
What to Order
Order the kimchi bao buns, made of pillowy soft steamed buns stuffed with succulent beef patties, all topped with olive mayo, spicy kimchi and melted cheese.
Southside | Shop 49, 342 McCullough St., Macgregor, QLD, 4109, Australia | $$
23. Herve’s
Opened in 2022, Herve’s is one of the best new restaurants in Brisbane. With its straightforward menu and attentive service, it has quickly become a favourite neighbourhood dining spot.
The Vibe
Herve’s has a welcoming yet sophisticated environment, with a sunny spacious dining room adorned with French-inspired décor.
What to Order
Order the signature Parisian gnocchi with creamed leeks, Mimolette and candied walnuts.
Herve’s | Level 1, Craft’d Grounds 31/37 Collingwood St., Brisbane, QLD, 4010, Australia | $$$
24. Hôntô
Experience contemporary Japanese cuisine at Hôntô, one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for authentic Japanese dining. This popular local spot blends tradition with modern flair.
The Vibe
Discretely tucked away in a dark alley, Hôntô is an upscale fine dining restaurant with dimly lit moody interiors and an intriguing menu.
What to Order
Order the raw black Angus beef tartare with negi miso and shoyu cured yolk.
Hôntô | Alden St., Fortitude Valley, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$
25. Hellenika
Enjoy poolside dining with Greek flavours at Hellenika, located on the deck of The Calile Hotel. Known as one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for combining a great meal with a refreshing swim, it offers a unique dining experience.
The Vibe
Dining at Hellenika is like being on holiday with plentiful natural light, tasteful wood and white décor.
What to Order
Discover the Paidakia, a juicy and tender chargrilled lamb cutlet dressed with olive oil, oregano, lemon and a side of tzatziki.
Hellenika | 2235 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach, QLD, 4218, Australia | $$$
26. Otto
Embrace the Dolce Vita at Otto, a stunning waterfront restaurant that blends modern Italian cuisine with the finest local Australian ingredients for a truly exceptional dining experience.
The Vibe
Bask in the coastal vibes of the Mediterranean at this upscale spot. Otto is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for outdoor dining with great views.
What to Order
Try the signature ravioli stuffed with blue swimmer crab and mascarpone, topped with tomatoes, olives, capers and fresh basil.
Otto | Level 4, 480 Queen St., Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
27. The Lex
Experience the spirit of New York City in the heart of Brisbane at The Lex. Indulge in bold New York flavours while soaking up the trendy atmosphere.
The Vibe
The Lex flawlessly channels the city that never sleeps while imparting a unique Brisbane flair to classic New York cuisine.
What to Order
The Lex is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for steak, so don’t miss out! Treat yourself to the 180g eye fillet, served with caramelized onion purée and your choice of sauce.
The Lex | 81 North Quay, Brisbane, QLD, 4000, Australia | $$$
28. Clarence
Take a delightful trip to Clarence, your go-to spot for fresh, locally sourced meals. This minimalist eatery is one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, perfect for enjoying delicious, produce-driven dishes.
The Vibe
With exposed brick walls and tasteful décor, Clarence is upscale casual with a welcoming atmosphere.
What to Order
Clarence offers a multi-course prix fixe menu prepared especially by the chef. Check the website for an accurate list of the current tasting menu items.
Clarence | 617 Stanley St., Brisbane, QLD, 4102, Australia | $$$
29. Montrachet
Delight in the best French restaurant in Brisbane at Montrachet. This charming spot is a local favourite, loved for its outstanding dishes and warm, upscale service that makes every visit special.
The Vibe
Montrachet is a fine dining restaurant featuring tasteful French-inspired décor and immaculate service.
What to Order
Enjoy one of the multi-course tasting menu options available. Menu items change due to the seasonality of ingredients, so if you like to know what you're ordering before you get to a restaurant, be sure to check ahead of your visit.
Montrachet | 1/30 King St., Bowen Hills, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$$$
30. 1889 Enoteca
Discover classic Roman cuisine at 1889 Enoteca. This local spot is the best restaurant in Brisbane to enjoy the bold flavours of Roman fare in a welcoming local setting.
The Vibe
1889 Enoteca finds the perfect balance between rustic design elements and upscale fine dining. The exposed brick walls, plush crushed red velvet booths and perfectly arranged place settings make this local eatery one of the best restaurants in Brisbane.
What to Order
Order the housemade tagliatelle with crab, chilli, garlic and chives. Don’t miss out on the rare collection of Italian wines also available.
1889 Enoteca | Shop 10, 10-12 Logan Road, Woolloongabba, QLD, 4102, Australia | $$$
31. The Golden Pig
Discover causal Asian-fusion dining at The Golden Pig. This local hotspot has quickly become one of the best restaurants in Brisbane for enjoying delicious Asian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
The Vibe
The Golden Pig is the best restaurant in Brisbane to have a hands-on cooking class experience with friends. It is a unique family-friendly venue perfect for a quick lunch or a nice dinner in one of the best foodie cities. This community gem also offers wine workshops and other fun events.
What to Order
Try the famous grilled octopus in fragrant sweet soy, green papaya, coriander and peanut sambal.
The Golden Pig | 38 Ross St., Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia | $$
Find the Best Restaurants in Brisbane
If you're embarking on a quest to find the best restaurants in Brisbane, what better way to do it than with the help of a knowledgeable local guide? Explore food tours in Brisbane and gain exclusive local intel about the best places to eat and drink in and around the city.
Find the hottest bars or the nicest family-friendly brunch spot to enjoy your favourite foods. Taking a food tour gives you an inside look into the best flavours of the city, allowing you to immerse yourself in Brisbane's vibrant culture and dine like a local.
With such a vibrant and diverse population, it's no surprise that the best restaurants in Brisbane are many and varied. Those hoping for a romantic fine dining experience will be spoiled for choice, as will those seeking a light bite and cocktail served poolside. As one of Australia's most culturally diverse cities, Brisbane has something for everyone.
For even more ways to explore Brisbane and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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