In that case, congratulations on upgrading your long-term snacking partner to a buffet buddy for life!
There’s nothing more exciting than flashing that brand new ring, raising a glass with friends, and knowing that in a short time, you’ll have a legal document that orders your partner to go halvsies on every meal.
We’ve found the perfect engagement party spots to gather your loved ones and celebrate your commitment to food, cocktails … and love, we guess.
Victoria Park | Herston
Nothing tests that imminent lifelong commitment quite like the windmill obstacle on a mini-golf course. Guests will assume you’re celebrating at Victoria’s Park garden marquee for sweeping golf course views, the private bar, or a menu that makes your mouth water – but really, it’s all about that post-cocktail round of putt-putt.
OSBOURNE HOTEL | FORTITUDE VALLEY
With one of the best beer gardens in Brisbane, 90+ rotating beer taps, boutique local wines including BK and Murdoch Hills, cocktails and premium spirit and a fabulous gastropub menu – Osbourne Hotel will not allow your guests to go without. Got a huge family? Make eyes at your main squeeze and soak up the sunshine in the Backyard – or enjoy cocktails in the Lounge Room for a more intimate soiree.
Byblos | Hamilton
A multitude of unique and exotic function spaces, irresistible cocktails and drool-worthy platters of Lebanese fare – you’ll find it all at Byblos, complete with river views that might just outshine the diamond on your finger. Perched on the edge of the water at Hamilton, these guys have over 10 years experience at crafting events with a difference, so you know your engagement party will be in good hands, whether you have 12 guests or 500.
Darling & Co | Paddington
Don’t be fooled by the name: this isn’t just somewhere to take your darling. Bring your appetite, your whole friends list, and a much looser backup outfit. Up to 150 guests can join you and your beau at a glam high tea or dinner in Darling & Co’s garden or sultry Swayze’s Backstage. Just a heads up – while people may not be able to see your ring, you definitely want to get all the braised brisket ragu you can get your hands on.
Miss Bliss Whole Foods Kitchen | West End
Look, before you head into wedded bliss, you’ve got to try the foodie bliss at this West End spot. Dedicated to bringing more than healthy treats to Brisbane locals, Miss Bliss has opened a stunning open-air laneway behind their kitchen. Draped in greenery and fairy lights for your nighttime festivities, you’ll be saying ‘I do’ to platters of antipasto and cured meats.
The Dalgety Public House | Teneriffe
Even more beautiful than that $9000 wedding dress you’ve been eyeing are the scenes of leafy Teneriffe from Dalgety Public House. With cosy wooden tones inside and a breezy raised balcony to enjoy bubbles on, this chic gastropub is great for casual celebrations with friends and a few too many share plates.
Loft | West End
Take festivities aloft to the naturally-lit decks of this Boundary Street venue. We’re not sure who even knows 500 people, but Loft has room for them. All-in-one plans for your engagement parties are a cinch with Loft’s atmospheric cocktail bar, in-house styling, and a wild mushroom arancini we’d seriously consider marrying if we weren’t otherwise committed.
Mary Mae’s | New Farm
What are you waiting for? Quick – before wedding folders and picking out table runners takes over your life (seriously, it will happen), make the time for a night of nothing but drinks, candlelight, and waterfront views at Mary Mae’s. Set by the Brisbane Powerhouse on the banks of the Brisbane river, this urban chic spot plates up seasonal dishes before some of the city’s best views.
Riverbar & Kitchen | CBD
If there’s one meal to fit in before the dress shopping begins, it’s waiting on this riverside deck beside a few hefty cocktail jugs. Suited to intimate gatherings of 10-35, an engagement affair at Riverbar will open your night to plates of prawn buns, fresh oysters, and seasonal slushies you’d sell that brand new fiancé down the river for. Seriously.
Pawpaw Café | Woolloongabba
Been lugging around that rock on your finger and need to regain some energy? Well, it would be paw form not to stop at Pawpaw for one of their all-out banquets. Set in their private function space, we could say it’s a great chance for some laid-back celebrations, but really, it’s just a chance to feast your heart out on beef cheek curry and pork belly bao.
Sassafras Canteen | Paddington
With a name that’s more fun to say than the word ‘fiancé’ and a courtyard decked out in fairy lights and candles, Sassafras is perfect for cracking open some post-engagement bubbles, antipasti platters and scrumptious canapés. Hey, the biggest party of your life deserves a practice round.
GREEK CLUB | SOUTH BRISBANE
A big celebration needs a BIG party, so go big or go home at The Greek Club. Revel in sweeping views of the parklands and take in the cityscape with a cocktail party on the Grand Balcony, or host an intimate sit-down dinner in the gorgeous Acropolis room. There’s no fear of going hungry either, with decadent Greek buffets, hot and cold platters and canapés – packed with Greek favourites and contemporary bites.
PEASANT | PETRIE TERRACE
Salsa your way to happily ever after with the spiciest party venue around. Enjoy canapés and cocktails under the glow of fairy lights in the courtyard, or devour a Spanish banquet, exotic wines, beers and cava spirits in the bordello inspired Grande Dining Room.
BAEDEKER | FORTITUDE VALLEY
The champagne is on ice and we’re ready to start poppin’ bottles– an engagement party at Baedeker is sure to sparkle. Soak up the afternoon sun with courtyard party in the Champagne Garden or take a seat at the rustic table in the private wine cellar. Impress your guests with old world charm and toast to your future!
All that’s left is to plan the guest list – and your hens night.
Want More Engagement Party Ideas?
If you’re searching for more inspiration for your engagement party, check out our guide to the best function venues Brisbane has to offer, or view our list of Brisbane’s best wedding venues.
