The best riverside restaurants in Brisbane City
When the sun is shining (and it usually is in Brisbane), there’s no better place to be than on the Brisbane River. For stunning sun-kissed vistas or to watch the twinkling city lights against the water, here’s our favourite riverside restaurants to lap up the views, fill your belly and sip on ice-cool drinks.
When river views meet divine dining, that’s Alchemy. Book a seat at the Eagle Street bar and restaurant for expansive floor-to-ceiling views paired with a magic a la carte menu of relaxed elegance from award-winning head chef Brad Jolly.
Also located near the iconic Eagle Street Pier dining precinct, Bar Pacino shines with an Italian-inspired snack menu and a spectacular setting. Head outdoors to enjoy the riverside ambience and killer cocktail list.
Communal outside tables make for a convivial atmosphere any time of the day at The Bavarian. The wrap-around veranda lends itself to sparkling views and equally sparkling lagers – what better way to soak up the riverside location? Prost!
With velvet banquettes and stunning 180-degree views, Blackbird Brisbane knows how to play to its best assets with roaring ‘20s vibes. Sink into a comfy seat to enjoy the seasonal local menu and curated wine list.
Stamford Plaza Brisbane’s showpiece eatery has an ideal location between the river and City Botanic Gardens with views to the Story Bridge. Dine alfresco on the terrace for an a la carte dinner by the riverside.
A cellar bar, restaurant and wine experience centre in one, visit City Winery for everything from after-work drinks to intimate functions and private soirees. It’s the ultimate wine and food discovery experience with a riverside view.
From group get-togethers to intimate dates, Coppa is a great location for your lunch or dinner occasion. The coastal Italian-inspired menu is as delicious as the view of the Story Bridge and you’ll easily be transported to Italy after a few frozen negronis.
Serving up fancy surf-and-turf in the most approachable way, Fatcow Steak & Lobster dishes up big rumps, fleshy claws and large pours. You’ll find yourself coming back for more at this riverside steak and seafood restaurant with the bonus of an onsite whisky bar.
Friday’s Riverside might just provide some of the best waterfront drinks (and dining) in Brisbane. The terrace features 180-degree views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge, making it #viewgoals.
This long-standing Brisbane spot has the freshest seafood and traditional Mediterranean dishes alongside steak, chicken and pasta. Fill your belly while enjoying top views of Kangaroo Point and the Story Bridge.
East meets west at this Eagle Street Pier location. From a cocktail to a casual drink, snacks to a hearty meal, experience modern Asian ambience and magnificent views of the river, City and Story Bridge.
Sumptuous surrounds indoors and a covered alfresco deck set the scene for an elegant Asian fusion meal at hip Madame Wu. With views of the river, Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point, it’s a dining experience to savour, especially the Moreton Bay bug dumplings.
Massimo Restaurant & Bar spruiks a menu influenced by the Abruzzo region of Italy. Dive into big bowls of house-made pasta, antipasto, whole cooked fish and seafood dishes at this restaurant by the river. Take note: happy hour is from 3pm-5pm daily.
With postcard-perfect river views, stylish interiors and a menu to match, Mr & Mrs G Riverbar is the place to be. Wine, Champagne and delectable share plates add to the lifestyle philosophy at this little Eagle Street glass cube for good reason.
Bold interiors by Anna Spiro complement an equally colourful and vibrant northern Thai menu at Naga Thai restaurant on Eagle Street Pier. Spice up your feed with river views and naga-licious cocktails.
Savour authentic Brazilian barbecue and the succulent modern flavours of charcoal-grilled meats at Navala Churrascaria. Enjoy vibrant riverfront dining and Latin American food with flair for fine dining, Brazilian-style.
Bringing a paddock-to-plate philosophy to the heritage-listed Customs House on Queens Street, Patina showcases the best local and regional fare in a picture-perfect riverside location.
Stunning city views, delicious Latin-Australian meals and extensive drink options, Rico Bar and Dining has relaxed riverside dining nailed. Rico blends cultures and culinary delights to create a casual dining experience perfect for groups, through to romantic dinners for two.
With its location in the name, Riverbar & Kitchen occupies prime river frontage at Riparian Plaza. Enjoy the enviable Brisbane lifestyle with an alfresco seat for a front-row river view and fresh modern Australian meals in a casual atmosphere.
This industrial-style beer garden and street food kitchen is built around two shipping containers. Cool, we know. Pair your beverage with a plate from one of the market stalls sitting at one end and find a seat by the panoramic edge.
Saké, Eagle St
Contemporary Japanese dining and, of course, a saké bar is what you’ll find at Saké restaurant and bar. Think fresh sashimi, new-style sushi and impeccably plated must-try signature dishes. Each dish at Saké is sculpted into a tiny work of art for added appeal.
Three Blue Ducks Brisbane, W Brisbane
Byron Bay favourite Three Blue Ducks has found itself a home at the W Brisbane, bringing its real food ethos and laidback vibes to The City. The all-Queensland cuisine is ably supported by river views from its North Quay location.
Will & Flow, Gardens Point Rd (temporarily closed)
Brisbane’s first overwater bar serves up stunning riverfront views and beverages that will take you from morning to night. Early risers can stop for juice or coffee, or meander in at sunset for craft beers, vibrant cocktails and mouth-watering snacks.
