Where to Eat in Brisbane Now

The cult favourites, chef-led newcomers, and the hidden gems you won't find in other guides (and I keep coming back for!)

At Brisbane’s boutique guesthouse Miss Midgley’s on my way out to Stanley…

I have a bit of a thing for Brisbane. While it’s long played second fiddle to Sydney and Melbourne on the culinary front, I honestly think Brisbane is one of the most exciting places to eat in Australia right now - and I keep finding more reasons to come back. As the closest capital city to me (hello from Byron Bay), it’s become my go-to when I need a proper hit of restaurants, design and culture.

There are the local legends, like the powerhouse Anyday group (Agnes, Agnes Bakery, Bianca, Same Same… and more on the way), who’ve helped shape Brisbane’s modern dining identity. But what’s really inspiring is the new wave: culinary heavyweights like Marty Boetz (remember the iconic Longrain in Sydney?) and Melbourne’s Andrew McConnell (aka Supernormal, Gimlet, etc etc) have set up shop in Brisbane alongside their alumni and newer gen chefs like Louis Tikaram bringing his EP/LP flair from LA back to the buzzy Howard Smith Wharves with Stanley (elevated yum cha). It feels like the beginning of something.

I’m especially drawn to James Street, with its boutique energy, palm-lined walkways and the photogenic Calile Hotel. But don’t let the Instagram sheen fool you, there’s substance here too, with great food, and thoughtful design.

Here’s everything you need to plan an amazing delicious, curated culinary experience!

My Best Brisbane Eats

From icons to the unexpected, hidden neighbourhood gems and boutique stays….