Brisbane, a city rich with culinary creativity, invites food lovers to experience a fusion of authentic flavours and modern dining trends. From charming Queenslander venues to refined riverside retreats, the gastronomic landscape is brimming with exciting spots that promise to tantalise the palate. Get ready for a quick tour of some of the finest establishments where culinary artistry meets warm Australian hospitality.
The Balfour Kitchen - New Farm, QLD
Escape the bustle of the city at the charming and serene The Balfour Kitchen on Balfour Street in New Farm. Set in a beautifully restored Queenslander, guests are invited to dine on the picturesque verandah, bask in the relaxed atmosphere of the courtyard beneath frangipanis, or sip cocktails on the rooftop bar as the sun sets over the iconic Storey Bridge. Renowned for its edgy yet approachable modern Vietnamese-inspired cuisine, the restaurant’s menu boasts fresh, light, and punchy flavours, along with a range of vegan and vegetarian options. Start your meal with a refreshing dish of kingfish served with leek nuoc cham and a crispy rice cracker, or indulge in the rich chicken and duck terrine paired delightfully with pickled carrot emulsion and a crisp croute.
For your larger plates, choose the Vietnamese fish cakes, full of vibrant herbs and complemented by an indulgent XO sweet chilli sauce, or the pho-spiced lamb ribs, which come accompanied by herbed coconut yoghurt and sides of perfectly charred broccolini and thrice-cooked chat potatoes. The Balfour Kitchen blends culinary excellence with a stunning location, guaranteeing an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Lamberts Restaurant - Kangaroo Point, QLD
A dynamic Modern Australian menu paired with a casually refined atmosphere awaits you at Lamberts Restaurant in Kangaroo Point. Nestled within The Point Brisbane Hotel on Lambert Street, this gem offers a chic yet inviting atmosphere, featuring an airy dining area that boasts wonderful views of the pool and lush gardens. Whether you're visiting for breakfast or dinner, this establishment prides itself on its gate-to-plate philosophy, ensuring fresh, seasonal ingredients make their way onto your plate. Start your culinary journey here with a delicate kingfish crudo, elegantly garnished with puffed rice and vibrant ruby grapefruit, accompanied by the refreshing crunch of cucumber and intriguing ice plant.
The main offerings are equally enticing, showcasing dishes like the succulent kangaroo loin served with baby beets and aromatic wattleseed labneh, or a rustic lamb shoulder, Provencal-style, served alongside cannellini beans and sides of crispy duck-roasted potatoes and vibrant seasonal greens. Lamberts brings a casual elegance to your dining experience, making it a must-visit destination.
Hinterland Restaurant - Cooran, QLD
Discover the charm of slow dining at Hinterland Restaurant, located on King Street in the idyllic township of Cooran. The restaurant embodies the spirit of the hinterland, enveloping diners in a warm and inviting atmosphere marked by earthy tones, rustic timber accents, and soft lighting. Surrounded by picturesque greenery, guests are encouraged to unwind and connect over thoughtfully crafted dishes that highlight the best of the region’s locally sourced ingredients. Start your meal with the pork and prawn spring rolls, complemented by an Asian salad, crunchy peanuts, and a zesty chilli lime sauce that excites the palate.
For your main course, consider the housemade basil fettuccine, generously adorned with prawns, scallops, and crab, all brought together through the rich notes of smoked tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a harmonious beurre blanc. The ambience of Hinterland, fused with the art of good food, creates a culinary experience that captivates the senses.
Sage Yellowfin - South Bank, QLD
Sage Yellowfin on Little Stanley Street in South Bank offers an exquisite exploration of culinary craftsmanship infused with global flavours. This Brisbane favourite prides itself on sourcing the finest local ingredients from trusted suppliers, enhancing every dish with a blend of creativity and passion that promises to leave a lasting impression. The ambiance is chic, illuminated by glowing cane pendant lights and adorned with polished wood, setting the tone for an engaging dining experience. Begin your journey with seared scallops, presented beautifully on a bed of sweet corn purée, elevated with dill and a hint of spicy nduja oil; a dish designed to tempt and satisfy.
Continue with enticing pasta creations such as the blue swimmer crab lasagne, elegantly layered with crustacean bisque and boosted by burnt sage and sprinklings of bottarga. For something heartier, the chicken supreme, paired with a fragrant sweet corn purée and roasted beetroot alongside crispy enoki mushrooms and chicken jus, makes for a delectable main. To conclude your meal, don’t miss the opportunity to savour the decadent sticky date pudding, generously coated with butterscotch sauce and paired with velvety vanilla bean ice cream. Sage Yellowfin encapsulates modern Australian dining at its finest.
Reserve your table and indulge in this experience.
Brisbane's thriving food scene beckons discerning diners with a blend of tradition and modernity, inviting you to embark on a delightful culinary journey. Each venue showcases the dynamic nature of Australia’s diverse gastronomic landscape, ensuring there’s always a new experience waiting just around the corner. Whether you're a local or just passing through, make it a mission to explore these exceptional spots that truly celebrate the art of good food.
