Satisfy those 3pm cravings in Brisbane CBD

We know the drill – you’re sitting at your desk and glance down at the clock on your computer. It’s 3.01pm and your stomach is crying out for a sugar fix.

On Monday it might be easy to say no, but by Friday you’re weak. Giving in to temptation doesn’t always have to spell blowout. We’ve included some healthier options to tame the 3pm dragon, but who are we kidding? Chocolate cures all.

Noosa Chocolate Factory, Adelaide St 

Let it be known, Noosa Chocolate Factory is the real MVP when it comes to an afternoon sugar hit. The rustic artisan chocolate store has a wall of pick ‘n’ mix chocolate-covered nuts and dried fruits, fancy bars of all varieties and iced or hot chocolates of all strengths. For the record, our favourite is the 56% hot chocolate. Oh, and don’t miss the rocky road.

The Research Store, Queen St

Younger sibling to Noosa Chocolate Factory, things get a little experimental here on Queen St. Find the same selection of iced and hot chocolates plus coffee alongside ever-changing bars of chocolate, experimental blends and flavour combinations and ideas that are just a little bit out there. 

I Heart Brownies, Wintergarden

Brisbane’s favourite gluten-free brownie brand now has a kiosk in the CBD. Located in the Wintergarden Centre near French Connection, pop by I Heart Brownie for one of the signature heart-shaped brownies in flavours such as double chocolate, mint, cherry coconut, Nutella, maple pecan or straight up classic.

Dello Mano, Tattersall's Arcade

The original brownie king, it is rumoured that Ashton Kutcher once had Dello Mano brownies flown to Paris for his birthday. These little foil-wrapped squares of luxury heaven can be found in an assortment of flavours at its store in Tattersall’s Arcade. The shop also serves a range of luxe cakes, treats, sweets and more.

Marchetti, Tattersall's Arcade

Nearby Dello Mano, Marchetti is the city’s Italian cafe – complete with real cannoli. Come 3pm have your fingers crossed that there will be any left. A consolation prize is the Nutella roll – a thin layer of fresh sponge, spread with Nutella and rolled. Complete your order with a piccolo.

Kiss The Berry, Creek St

Craving something cold, sweet and healthy? Try an acai bowl from Kiss The Berry. If the original doesn’t hit the spot, opt for the popular snickers bowl that’s somehow miraculously super tasty AND good for you.

Coco Bliss, Wintergarden

Move over chocolate, some afternoons call for a healthy sweet treat and Coco Bliss has the goods. Located in the food court (lower level) of Wintergarden, pick out a made-to-order acai bowl from the menu or grab some bliss balls to go.

Oasis Juice Bar, Queen Street Mall

Fresh juice kings Oasis have a kiosk in the mall that’s always pumping out drinks. It never uses juice concentrates – only the real, pure fresh fruit – so it’s guaranteed you’re getting the good stuff.

Room With Roses, Brisbane Arcade

Set on the gallery level of Brisbane Arcade, Room With Roses is a quaint tea room best known for excellent scones and high tea. Pop by to grab cake to go or take a late lunch and sit in with a cup of English Breakfast.

Nodo x Pressed, Elizabeth St

Well aren’t we glad the folks at Nodo and Pressed became friends. Over on Elizabeth St, find a variety of baked gluten-free doughnuts by Nodo alongside cold-pressed juices from Pressed, plus coffee.

Le Bon Choix, Edward and Queen Sts

Macarons, croissants, and cakes made of mousse can all be found at the two Le Bon Choix outlets in the CBD. Drop by the patisserie for an afternoon sweet treat.

Botero, Adelaide St

Honestly, this is a long shot – the folks at Botero stock Sprout croissants, pastries and more but they go like hot cakes. Come 3pm if there are any delicious treats left, throw your money at staff and demand flaky pastry goodness.

Jan Power City Farmers’ Markets, Reddacliff Place

Every Wednesday the Jan Power markets pop up in Reddacliff Place at the end of Queen Street Mall. Among the stacks of market stalls, find a bunch of sellers with baked goods selling everything from bee stings and apple pies to giant lamingtons and macarons, plus keep an eye out for G Free – makers of gluten-free cinnamon doughnuts – and the fresh-made popcorn man.