Here in Brisbane, we’re blessed to be based around the glorious Brown Snake, a glistening natural asset that’s simply begging to feature in your next best Insta photo!
Whether you’re seeking out a fancy dining experience or looking for a touch of riverine escapism, we’ve rounded up the city’s best spots to dine (and drink) by the Brisbane River.
Blackbird | CBD
This glamorous bird is perched at one of the best spots along the river, with 180-degree views over to Kangaroo Point in one direction, and the Story Bridge in the other.
The main dining room might offer gourmet meals with top-notch service, but head out to the bar to explore the relaxed, share-style menu and expansive drinks list packing fine scotches, gins, tequilas and whiskeys to explore.
Bar Alto | New Farm
A little breath of Italian coastal air, Bar Alto is your spot for spritzes, snacks, and modern-Italian dining with gorge river views.
We’d recommend grabbing a spot outside, ordering your drinks of choice, and diving into a kilo of mussels cooked in chilli, garlic, white wine and tomato with crunchy ciabatta for dipping. That’s amore!
Riverbar & Kitchen | CBD
For casual dining, it doesn’t get cuter than Riverbar. The crowd-pleasing menu makes it a perfect spot for weekend catch-ups or an easy mid-week meal, while the solid cocktail list explains why this place pumps for Friday knockoffs. Grab a cocktail jug and a pizza, sit back, and enjoy that view.
Byblos | Hamilton
Gather a group—you’ll need it to work your way through one of everything off Byblos’ Mediterranean menu! Order a cocktail like the Violet Martini, relax and enjoy the river views and mouthfuls of feta and mozzarella-filled rekakat filo pastry, hummus awarma topped with marinated lamb, and grilled halloumi.
Persone | CBD
This jazzed-up Italian diner by the Gambaro’s offers a different, stunning perspective of the river, looking over to GOMA and South Bank from their elevated position in Brisbane Quarter.
The seasonal Italian menu is full of must-try plates, like the duck prosciutto with pickled melon and goat’s curd, and the pork agnolotti with brown butter, sage and lemon.
Rico Bar + Dining | CBD
Spain is calling, and Rico’s on the line! This fun spot at the top of Eagle Street Pier offers the best flavours of Spain and Latin America, with an oyster menu featuring six flavour options, authentic paella, and plenty of cocktails stirring up a guaranteed good time.
Il Molo | Bulimba
It was always going to be hard to beat “the jetty” for river views, but this spot in suburban Bulimba is a local favourite for good reason. Whether you’re lucky enough to grab the prime spot outside or settle inside, the three-cheese arancini, truffle mushroom gigli, and white chocolate panna cotta are guaranteed to capture your full attention.
Mr Percival’s | CBD
It couldn’t be a riverside list without including something from Howard Smith Wharves, and Mr Percival’s is the spot that truly places you on the river! A chic spot for bites and bevs by daylight and a jam-packed hotspot by night, Mr Percival’s is the “overwater” bar for all occasions.
Patina at Customs House | CBD
Lunching doesn’t get better than when nestled in one of Brisbane’s most iconic buildings, and Patina at Customs House certainly delivers on the menu front, too! Enjoy classics like Moreton Bay bug risotto, salt and pepper Brisbane Valley quail, and mushroom tarte Tatin with one of Brisbane’s best bridge views.
River views make anyone else hungry?
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