Brisbane’s culinary scene continues to outshine its competition, and it’s no secret that thriving waterfront venues are at the heart of this success. While beachside dining has its charm, it’s the riverside gems that steal the spotlight, offering a unique and chic foodie experience with spectacular views.
From harbourside brunches to spritz-fuelled rendezvous and comforting seafood Alfresco dining, Brisbane’s culinary waterfront scene has your back. So, let’s get straight to the crème de la crème of Brisbane’s waterfront restaurants for 2024, where the emphasis is on good times and exceptional culinary creations.
Manly Boathouse
Manly
Image: www.manlyboathouse.com.au
Situated by the tranquil shores of Moreton Bay, just a quick 30-minute drive from Brisbane, Manly Boathouse is the epitome of chic waterfront dining. With its dreamy pavilion-style interior, this restaurant and bar offers a modern and stylish retreat with fantastic water views. The menu features delectable seafood dishes with a wood-smoked flavour, while the bar serves up 14 beers on tap, an extensive wine list, and tantalising cocktails alongside bar snacks.
If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, the patio offers brekkie bites, coffee, patisserie treats, gelato, and the quintessential fish and chips. Manly Boathouse also provides private dining options, including hireable marquees, for those looking to host a seaside soiree. The real star, though, is the stunning wraparound view of Manly Harbour and Moreton Bay, making this spot a must-visit for all food and nature enthusiasts.
Greca
Howard Smith Wharves
Image: www.howardsmithwharves.com
At Howard Smith Wharves, beneath the Story Bridge, Greca is a vibrant tribute to contemporary Greek taverna culture, with Chef Jonathan Barthelmess at the helm. Inspired by the Mediterranean lifestyle, Greca values the simplicity of exceptional cuisine sourced from local land and sea, reimagining the traditional taverna.
Diverging from the conventional Greek restaurant scene in Brisbane, Greca focuses on creating an atmosphere where great food and exuberance flourish. Much like its Sydney counterpart, Apollo, Greca thrives on communal dining, epitomising the warm, generous spirit of Mediterranean culture while framing this experience with the breathtaking backdrop of the Brisbane riverfront.
Otto
South Bank
Image: www.ottoristorante.com.au.
On the vibrant South Bank riverfront, OTTO Ristorante and OTTO Osteria bring a touch of glamorous Italian flair to Brisbane’s dining scene. It’s housed within a chic, designer boat-house style pavilion, offering warm and impeccable service that elevates your dining experience to new heights. Drawing inspiration from contemporary Italy, Head Chef Will Cowper’s menu places emphasis on the seasons, utilising the best of local produce.
But it’s not just the culinary delights that make OTTO a standout. This restaurant has earned numerous awards since its debut in 2014, offering not just delectable food but also breathtaking river views and a city skyline that adds to the ambience at every meal. For those in search of a more laid-back experience, OTTO offers spritzes and tempting antipasti by the water, creating an ideal setting for savouring the sunset over the city. In every aspect, OTTO Ristorante has become Brisbane’s go-to spot for indulgent Italian dining.
Blackbird
Brisbane CBD
Image: www.blackbirdbrisbane.com.au
Blackbird on Eagle Street defies easy labels. With its grand function rooms, private areas, and a scenic outdoor bar, it’s more than just a restaurant. The 180-degree view, including the iconic Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point cliffs, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The menu offers award-winning dishes, like the delectable bean sprout, almond, and fregola risotto with zucchini flowers, red quinoa, and toasted almonds. And there’s an impressive wine list curated by an in-house sommelier to complement your meal.
The Riverside Bar is an elegant oasis, inspired by the glamour of The Great Gatsby and Prohibition-era speakeasies. Blackbird transitions seamlessly from casual lunches to lively evenings, making it ideal for a range of occasions. Whether you’re a food lover or a cocktail enthusiast, it’s a place where you can savour great food, incredible cocktails, and the best Brisbane views.
Bar Alto
New Farm
Image: www.baralto.com.au
Located in the recently refurbished Brisbane Powerhouse precinct, the popular Bar Alto offers a truly unique dining experience by the water. Tucked in between the Brisbane River and New Farm Park, this former power station has evolved into a dining spot for creativity, encompassing theatre, music, comedy, visual arts, and more. The restaurant’s culinary prowess shines with signature pasta dishes like pappardelle with goat ragu and Venetian crespelle of pumpkin, sage, and ricotta. Other entrees, lamb, and pork belly options ensure something to delight every palate.
During lunchtime, this riverside gem comes alive with locals sipping wines and sharing plates of Antipasti. Enjoy this delightful experience as you watch the afternoon sun paint the river with a glass of Hawkes Bay Merlot in hand. Bar Alto at Brisbane Powerhouse is a must-visit for those seeking a chic blend of art and culinary excellence.
Opa Bar and Mezze
Brisbane CBD
Image: www.opabar.com.au
In the heart of Brisbane’s vibrant Eagle Street Pier, Opa Bar + Mezze offers a modern Greek dining experience with refined yet relaxed vibes. Overlooking the Story Bridge, it’s a taste of Santorini by the Brisbane River. With seafood as the star, Opa’s menu fuses local Queensland produce with traditional Greek flavours. “Opa!” echoes through the restaurant, setting the stage for celebrations and casual get-togethers.
The breezy terrace offers cocktails and iconic river views, while the interior boasts whitewashed walls, lush greenery, and circular booths for an unforgettable meal. Try spanner crab orzo pasta and char-grilled king prawns as mezze before indulging in live lobster with capers and ladolemono sauce. Formerly Jellyfish, Opa’s transformation shines with vibrant greenery, pink stone accents, and unique lighting. Come to Eagle Street for a dash of Greece with a touch of class at Opa Bar + Mezze.
Stanley
Howard Smith Wharves
Image: www.stanleyrestaurant.com.au
Stanley is an exquisite Cantonese restaurant that draws its inspiration from the evocative waterside setting of Hong Kong’s Stanley Bay. The vision behind Stanley is shaped by the globetrotting culinary journey of Chef Louis Tikaram, who brings a fresh and boundary-pushing perspective to the dining experience.
The restaurant’s philosophy revolves around the core values of great food, camaraderie, the toil of fishermen, and the bounty of farmers. In the landscape of Brisbane’s waterfront dining scene, Stanley stands out as a culinary heavyweight. It’s a place where the convergence of tradition and innovation produces remarkable dishes like the whole marron live from the tank with spaghetti, garlic, chilli, rosemary, herbs, and Italian breadcrumbs. From salt and pepper squid to wok-fried Moreton Bay bug, Stanley showcases the very best of Cantonese cuisine, making it a chic and unforgettable dining destination.
Alchemy
Brisbane CBD
Image: www.alchemyrestaurant.com.au
With a prime location overlooking the Brisbane River, Alchemy Restaurant and Bar offers a distinctive Australian dining experience. It seamlessly combines an elegant atmosphere with picturesque river views. From daytime corporate lunches to evening special occasions, Alchemy’s Italian-inspired menu with a variety of pasta and antipasti dishes, paired with an extensive wine selection.
Inside, the restaurant boasts a casual yet stylish ambience with soft lighting, modern decor, and a striking Murano glass chandelier. Alchemy is recognised for its culinary innovation, introducing liquid nitrogen to Brisbane’s dining scene, leading to an array of intriguing textures and creative dishes. At Alchemy, you’ll find sophistication and inventiveness, resulting in a chic dining experience with expansive river views.
Ciao Papi
Howard Smith Wharves
Image: www.ciaopapi.com.au
Positioned with a commanding view of the Brisbane River and the intimate Story Bridge, Ciao Papi offers a magical experience. Bathed in sunlight reflecting off the river, patrons savour culinary delights such as penne with Italian pork sausage ragu and exquisite wood-fired pizzas like the Moreton Bay—topped with bugs, chilli, fior di latte, and a drizzle of lemon oil.
Ciao Papi’s Glass House, a waterfront, air-conditioned haven, is an ideal setting for corporate or private gatherings. The chic, bold, and eclectic interiors, coupled with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the Story Bridge, create an unforgettable ambience. Elevate your event further by utilising the private garden for arrival drinks.
Tillerman
Brisbane CBD
Image: www.tillerman.com.au
Tillerman, a must in any Brisbane riverfront restaurant list, promises a coastal escape along the iconic Brisbane River. The seafood haven boasts whole fish, succulent prawns, and shareable plates on a table that feels like it’s floating on the water. Located at the Eagle Street Pier, Tillerman invites you to a European dining experience with delicious food influenced by Coastal European flavours, and a menu emphasising shared-style dining using premium local seafood.
From freshly shucked Oysters to Bouillabaisse, the restaurant crafts a love letter to Queensland’s produce. Situated in Riparian Plaza, Tillerman harmoniously blends a relaxed ambience with sophisticated appeal, offering signature dishes like Bouillabaisse and Salt-Baked Murray Cod. Pair these delights with selected premium wines or bespoke cocktails for a truly immersive experience.
Riverbar & Kitchen
Eagle Street Pier
Image: Facebook
Situated on Eagle Street, Riverbar & Kitchen caters to your needs from morning to night, ensuring once you secure a spot on their outdoor terrace, there’s no reason to depart. With stunning views across the river, this Brisbane gem charms with fairy lights illuminating the space, extending the good vibes until midnight. The open, sunny ambience pairs perfectly with a refreshing cocktail list featuring concoctions like watermelon punch and seasonal slushies. As the sun sets, indulge in a culinary journey with pizza, flatbreads, salads, and elevated raw dishes. Riverbar & Kitchen encapsulates the ideal spot for a seamless transition from their breakfast menu to late-night cocktails, surrounded by picturesque scenery and delectable offerings.
Babylon
Eagle Street
Image: Facebook
Located just a stone’s throw from the business of Eagle Street, Babylon stands as an urban drinking and dining metropolis, spanning three levels with an eclectic mix of bars, terraces, and vibrant dining spaces overlooking the Brisbane River. Drawing inspiration from Levantine cuisine, originating in the southeastern Mediterranean, the menu at this waterfront location features aromatic dishes crafted for sharing with family and friends.
Babylon’s layout, cascading down through laneways and private dining spaces to waterfront dining, accommodates up to 1000 guests. Each unique space encourages a lively, social style of eating and drinking, placing fresh produce at the forefront of our food philosophy. Whether on terraces, vibrant dining areas, or various bars, Babylon’s riverside location offers the perfect year-round venue for a delightful fusion of flavours and social enjoyment.
Madame Wu
Brisbane City
Image: Facebook
A top riverfront spot in Brisbane City is Madame Wu, which offers an elegant Asian fusion experience with a lavish interior and a covered alfresco deck. Set against the backdrop of the river, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point, the dining ambiance is one to relish. Indulge in the signature Moreton Bay bug dumplings for a unique culinary delight
Beyond the exquisite dining experience, Madame Wu caters to your thirst with an extensive wine cellar, a signature cocktail bar, and a resident Sommelier and Mixologist. With a capacity exceeding 200 people, including a private dining room, a fully covered alfresco deck, and a full-service bar, Madame Wu offers magnificent views of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point, and the CBD skyline.
Will & Flow
Brisbane CBD
Image: Facebook
On Brisbane’s north bank, Will & Flow emerges as the city’s newest overwater destination, spanning day-to-night dining. Revel in stunning riverfront views during breakfast, brunch, lunch, or a captivating sunset dinner. The Sundaze session offers live music, spritzes, and specials for a perfect leisurely escape. Positioned between the QUT Gardens Point ferry terminal and the QUT-end of the Goodwill Bridge, Will & Flow exudes waterfront chic with a sleek, breezy design and both indoor and outdoor seating.
Enjoy a rustic menu featuring fresh seafood, premium Queensland produce, and delightful cocktails, all against the backdrop of spectacular South Bank views. From morning juices to craft beers and vibrant cocktails at night, Will & Flow encapsulates the essence of Brisbane’s overwater appeal.
Yoko Dining
Howard Smith Wharves
Image: Facebook
Adjacent to Greca, Yoko at Howard Smith Wharves offers a premium Japanese dining experience with a touch of welcoming playfulness. Yoko Dining channels Tokyo’s lively music bars and pop-infused counter-culture into a split-level izakaya along the Brisbane River, providing uninterrupted views. Relax in the superb river-front breeze, sipping a frozen yuzu punch, and relish delights like pork gyozas or soft-shell crab temaki.
With a perfectly stocked sake wall and vibrant neon lights, Yoko Dining is the perfect spot for a Tokyo-inspired experience and top-notch Japanese cuisine. The split-level bistro, featuring pops of yellow tiling against polished concrete and blonde timber, captures the raucous energy of Tokyo’s izakayas, making it the perfect spot for a fun and vibrant dining experience on the river.