Brisbane’s dining scene is a vibrant mosaic of cultures and nowhere is that better showcased than in South Bank and Hawthorne. From sizzling steaks to authentic Spanish feasts, rustic Italian fare and modern Mexican flair, these six venues bring personality, passion and flavour to every plate.
Tucked into the lively heart of South Brisbane, Calida Steak & Bar exudes understated sophistication. The moment you step inside, warm amber lighting glows across polished timber and charcoal accents, setting the stage for a refined yet inviting dining experience. The scent of seared prime cuts fills the air, mingling with the gentle hum of conversation and clinking glasses.
Calida’s open kitchen is a spectacle in itself, where flames leap and sizzle as Chefs masterfully prepare succulent steaks and hearty accompaniments. Balancing contemporary elegance with rustic charm, Calida captures the essence of a modern steakhouse - confident, bold and irresistibly satisfying.
Just steps away, Ole Restaurant & Sangria Bar bursts with the vibrant spirit of Spain. Colourful tiles, hanging jamón and lively music transport guests straight to a bustling Madrid tapas bar. It’s a place where laughter is shared over shared plates and pitchers of fruity sangria, where the flavours of chorizo, seafood and saffron bring sunshine to every dish.
The bar is the heart of Ole, pouring handcrafted sangrias and Spanish wines that complement the rhythm of the evening. With its energetic atmosphere and bold Mediterranean flair, Ole invites diners to linger long after the plates are cleared - because here, every meal feels like a fiesta.
Across the river in Hawthorne, Downtown Istanbul offers a sensory journey through the streets of Turkey. The aroma of freshly baked bread and charcoal-grilled meats greets you before you even reach your table. Inside, ornate lamps and mosaic patterns create an ambience that feels both exotic and welcoming.
The menu celebrates the vibrant spirit of Turkish cuisine - smoky skewers, spiced dips and vibrant salads served with generosity and flair. It’s a feast that engages all the senses: the crunch of crisp bread, the tang of yoghurt and lemon, the slow warmth of spice. Downtown Istanbul is a celebration of heritage and hospitality, where every dish tells a story steeped in tradition.
For lovers of la dolce vita, Vici Italian brings a slice of Rome to South Bank. Its design is effortlessly stylish - modern yet cosy, with earthy tones, marble accents and a lively open kitchen that fills the space with the aroma of simmering sauces and freshly baked pizza. The menu is a love letter to Italy’s culinary classics, reimagined with a Brisbane twist.
Each dish feels like a warm embrace - generous, comforting and crafted with care. Whether it’s handmade pasta, rustic antipasti, or a perfectly pulled espresso to finish, Vici embodies Italian dining at its finest: simple ingredients elevated by passion and precision.
Bright, bold and full of life, Mucho Mexicano is where colour and flavour collide. The decor bursts with Mexican charm - vivid murals, papel picado streamers and a soundtrack that keeps the mood high. It’s the kind of place where tacos and tequila come together in perfect harmony.
The kitchen celebrates fresh ingredients and vibrant spice, from zesty citrus to smoky chipotle and crisp coriander. Every dish feels like a celebration, designed to share, laugh over and enjoy without pretense. Mucho Mexicano captures the soul of Mexico - fun, fiery and unapologetically festive.
Poca Madre lives up to its name - a little bit cheeky, a little bit refined. This modern Mexican eatery fuses contemporary design with authentic Latin flair. Sleek interiors and ambient lighting set a sophisticated tone, while the flavours pack undeniable punch. Dishes come alive with layers of spice, freshness, and texture, blending tradition with innovation.
Whether it’s the earthy depth of slow-cooked meats or the vibrant kick of citrus and chilli, every bite feels deliberate and dynamic. Poca Madre is where elegance meets energy - a fitting reflection of South Bank’s evolving dining culture.
Together, these six venues form a culinary map of Brisbane’s diverse and dynamic dining landscape - a city where global flavours come together with local style and every meal is an adventure waiting to be savoured.
