It’s a gorgeous day (yet again!) in Brisbane and you want to indulge in fine food, a cool wine and admire the water views of the Brisbane River. But where can you go?
We’ve selected some of the best riverfront dining spots in our city. Many of them are close to CityCat or ferry stops so don’t drink and drive - drink, dine and float home.
Starting at the rivermouth end and working our way upriver...
Portside at Hamilton
See our precinct guide to Portside, where almost all of the restaurants have river views from the outdoor dining areas including Restaurant Manx, Wilsons Boathouse and Byblos.
Nearby is Bretts Wharf – with tables right next to the water. It is a long-time a-la carte seafood favourite.
Nearest stop: Bretts Wharf CityCat stop at Hamilton
Teneriffe
Teneriffe provides the next riverfront option.
At Teneriffe, there’s Eve’s on the River in the heritage listed MacTaggarts Place Woolstore, plus Aqua Linea at Newstead. Both of these restaurants are in walking distance to the Teneriffe Cross River Ferry to Bulimba.
Nearest stop: Bulimba CityCat and Cross River Ferry to Teneriffe
We’ve selected some of the best riverfront dining spots in our city.
Curl further along the river and dine at Watt at Brisbane Powerhouse. We love it’s iconic half-sunk red flood sign outdoors. There's also the impressive Italian bistro Bar Alto.
Nearest stop: New Farm CityCat and Cross River Ferry to Norman Park
The city centre
Customs House restaurant resides in a beautiful sandstone building, with great views of the Story Bridge. Sit outside and watch the passing river traffic.
Venice Cafe & Bar - gives a traditional Italian option.
Alchemy – dine under the stunning red chandelier, for a special occasion.
In the Riparian Plaza and Riverside Centre you’ll find:
- Boardwalk Bar + Bistro - everything from coffee and breakfast to late night snacks. Casual and welcoming
- Kingsleys Steak and Crabhouse - big steaks, crabs and views
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Siana Bar Dining Lounge - a shiny, sophisticated bar with Asian inspired dim-sum meals
- Groove Train
Nearest stop: Riverside CityCat and Cross River Ferry to Kangaroo Point
You don’t have to be a guest at The Stamford Plaza to enjoy dining riverfront at The Brasserie. There is a mix of indoor and outdoor tables, with a view of the walking path and the cliffs of Kangaroo Point. A favourite spot for leisurely breakfasts, high tea or functions.
South Bank
When you eat in the South Bank area, you not only get a view of the Brisbane River you see the city buildings too, sparkling at night.
The hot spots right beside the water are:
Nearest stop: South Bank CityCat
Up river towards Milton and beyond...
Oxley’s on the River floats on the water and is well known for its seafood and functions.
Joseph Alexander’s at Milton has fine food and sophisticated atmosphere with riverviews from the first floor dining area and piano bar.
Regatta Hotel’s Boatshed Restaurant has a range of dining areas and bars. Busy Coronation Drive is between the Hotel and the river though.
Nearest stop: Regatta CityCat
You can’t get closer to the water than this – on a boat! The Kookaburra Queen offers buffet lunches and dinners.
What's your favourite riverfront restaurant and why? Add your comments below.
