Whether you’ve got a client you need to win over, a contract that needs signing, or you just desperately need a 45-minute break from the office fluorescent lights (we’ve all been there), there’s a new power move in town: the Express Lunch at Strangers’ Restaurant.
The Express Lunch is arguably one of the best-value elevated lunches in the city. For $42, the experience delivers a refined dining menu including chef’s snacks, bread, a seasonal main, and a drink, all while you’re tucked inside a unique heritage building. We’re talking ornate ceilings, polished parquet floors, and heavy cedar furniture that’s probably witnessed more historic deals than your favourite afternoon political drama show. It’s the perfect setup to close a business deal or simply have a proper midweek catch-up with your mates.
Tucked away inside the grand, stone walls of Queensland Parliament House, Strangers’ Restaurant is one of those spots that feels like a total insider secret. The name itself is a cheeky nod to parliamentary tradition: in the past, ‘strangers’ were what they called visitors to the House for over a century. Fast forward to today, and those ‘strangers’ are the guests of honour, invited to enjoy a dining experience that perfectly blends history with contemporary cuisine.
Executive Chef Anthony Naylor is the man behind the menu, and he’s all about keeping it local. “Queensland is home to extraordinary growers and producers, and our menu is designed to showcase that incredible produce,” he says. “By focusing on seasonal ingredients and thoughtful preparation, we create a refined dining experience that celebrates the flavours of our state.”
And look, if the meeting is going really well (or you’ve just decided you aren’t quite ready to head back to the office), they’ve still got the full à la carte and five-course tasting menus if you want to linger. You could even book a guided tour in the House. Talk about choices!
Whether you’re looking to elevate your next business meeting or you just want to feel like a VIP for an hour before heading back to your emails, the Express Lunch is the ultimate CBD power move, available every Wednesday to Friday. If you would rather skip the midday rush, Strangers’ Restaurant also opens its doors for dinner every Friday night. Just be sure to double check the calendar as the restaurant only opens to the public during non-sitting weeks!
Consider the motion passed. This $42 power move is yours!