When you imagine an escape to sunny Queensland, you would be forgiven for instantly envisaging long, sun-filled days spent on the golden sandy beaches of the Gold Coast; wandering the charming boutique-lined streets of Noosa; or perhaps strolling under towering palm trees in the balmy air of Far North Queensland. But now, a trip to the sunshine state isn’t complete without a stopover in the once overlooked capital city of Brisbane. It’s here in Australia’s third-largest city where you’ll now find some of the country’s finest places to dine, drink and stay. From vanilla to vibrant, Brisbane is a must-add to your #HolidayHereThisYear bucket list and these hotspots prove why.
STAY
The Calile Hotel
Fact: The Calile Hotel is not only one of the most coveted new hotels to stay at in Brisbane, but in all of Australia. Located in the city’s bustling and central neighbourhood of Fortitude Valley, The Calile Hotel is as cool as it is chic, and as playful as it is polished. The 175 rooms are home to candy-hued interiors, brass detailing and five-star features — and are the definition of Instagram-worthy. But the main attraction is the 27-metre pool that is complete with gold tiles, a fringe of mint-green umbrellas and palm-shaded cabanas — think Miami resort-style glamour.
The Fantauzzo
For another boutique hotel, check out The Fantauzzo —at Howard Smith Wharves tucked under the iconic Story Bridge. This six-storey hotel was inspired by acclaimed Australian painter, Vincent Fantauzzo, and is a blend of architecture, nature and art and has some of the city’s drinking and dining hotspots literally at its doorstep.
DINE
Stanley Restaurant
With a philosophy centred around great food, friends, fishermen and farmers, one of the city’s newest culinary offerings — Stanley Restaurant — has fast become a firm favourite for local foodies. The chic Cantonese restaurant is positioned idyllically on the waterfront of Brisbane's Howard Smith Wharves where it’s view of the glistening Brisbane River and Story Bridge is rivalled only by the menu itself. Inspired by head chef, Louis Tikaram’s travels across the globe and grounded by his local roots, Stanley’s menu showcases some of the best seafood, meat, vegetables and fruit in the world. With an ethos that combines the best produce — mostly sourced locally — and supporting our Australian industry with traditional Cantonese flavours, Stanley deserves a top spot on your Brisbane to-do-list.
Ciao Papi
It might have started as a pop-up eatery, but Ciao Papi fast became apermanent fixture at Howards Smith Wharves due to popular demand. The Italian dining experience is located at the New Farm end of the precinct and offers a range of Italian dishes served up by Head Chef, Giacomo Favotto, who has previously held roles at Michelin starred restaurants including Le Gavroche in London, L’Andana in Italy and Ryu Gin Restaurant in Tokyo. If you love Italian food and culture, be prepared for one of your most authentic Italian experiences in Australia to date.
While you’redown at Howard Smith Wharves — the city’s riverside culinary and hospitality precinct — wesuggest checking out its other world-class food offerings. From the contemporary Greek tavern, Greca Restaurant, to the Japanese izakaya, Yoko Dining, and the gelato diner, Goodtimes Gelateria — this is a foodie’s heaven.
Hellenika
Located at The Calile Hotel, Hellenika is as picture-perfect as the hotel it calls home. Set on the pool deck, Hellenika is all about fresh produce, authentic Greek fare and a hand-curated selection of wines to match. It’s here you can gather with friends to share a meal under the stars on the olive tree-lined alfresco terrace, or enjoy a casual bite while relaxing poolside under the hotel’s iconic mint green umbrellas. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, Hellenika will transport you to the Greek Islands for the best spritz and saganaki you’ve ever had. Be sure to have your camera at the ready, this restaurant is one of the most photogenic spaces in town.
Joy
As its name suggests, Joy is one very joyful dining experience. Situation in the trendy neighbourhood of Fortitude Valley, Joy is a tiny 10-seat counter-dining space that redefines the rules of fine dining. Founded by chefs Tim and Sarah Scott in 2019, Joy is all about creativity, passion and fun and offers a new experience and menu each and every night that changes with their inspiration. “We can never promise you exactly what is going to happen once you arrive at Joy, but we can promise you that our main goal is always to communicate our love and passion for genuine hospitality,” says Tim and Sarah. It goes without saying, but be sure to book well in advance.
DRINK
Mr Percival’s
When you think of a decidedly Instagrammable waterside cocktail bar, it’s highly likely you would imagine something that looks a little like Mr Percival’s. Set under the Story Bridge and also at Howards Smith Wharves, Mr Percival’s is Brisbane’s hotspot and where you go to turn afternoons into evenings on the sun-filled deck, spritz in hand. The pretty, pastel-hued interiors — designed by renowned interior designer, Anna Spiro — are as visit-worthy as the bar food menu featuring locally sourced seafood, wood fired pizzas and seasonal salads. There’s only one thing to remember at Mr Percival’s — it’s always aperitivo hour.
Gerard’s Bar
As the young, vibrant little sister to iconic Brisbane eatery Gerard’s Bistro, Gerard’s Bar is a must on your Queensland capital itinerary. The six-year-old venue is a friendly neighbourhood bar located on the coveted James Street that serves colourful Middle Eastern-inspired fare, warm service and an original list of wines and signature cocktails. It’s here they invite you to roll up your sleeves, break bread, double dip, sip and relax — if that sounds like your perfect night, you may have just found your new favourite bar.
Felons Brewing Co.
Another Howards Smith Wharves hotspot, Felons Brewing Co. is a modern-day brewery nestled down on the banks of the Brisbane River. Everyone is welcome here — friends, families, children and dogs — and is your go-to for a casual lunch, drink or get together. If you love freshly brewed beer, iconic views and waterside seating, get ready to fall in love with Felons.
DO
The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
Art lovers, welcome to your favourite place in Brisbane. The Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art — or the QAGOMA for short — is located on South Bank and is made up of two unique galleries that are united in their purpose to share exceptional art. The QAGOMA showcases the art of Australia, Asia and the Pacific with a collection of more than 17,000 artworks, and stages a regularly changing program of Australian and international exhibitions.
Shopping on James Street
For the keen shoppers, the famed James Street precinct is the place to be. With all your favourite boutiques in one street — think St Agni, Aje, Zimmermann, Lee Matthews, Bassike, Camilla & Marc, Venroy and Assembly Label — this is one of the best retail therapy strips in the country.
Brisbane Riverwalk
To say that the Brisbane Riverwalk is one of the city’s absolute must-dos would be an understatement. The impressive overwater track takes pedestrians and cyclists along the most beautiful tract of the Brisbane River between New Farm, on to the Brisbane CBD and beyond.
Brisbane Powerhouse
Designed by Brisbane City Council Tramway architect, Roy Rusden Ogg, Brisbane Powerhouse is an arts and cultural hub located in the leafy, riverside suburb of New Farm. Time your trip to see at show at this spectacular venue or explore the famed farmer’s markets held every Saturday from 6am until noon and shop everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to artisan cheeses and handmade pasta.
