Essential Eating: Our Editor’s Guide to Brisbane Dining

We all know that familiar panic when someone leaves you in charge of choosing the restaurant. Whether it’s for friends or family who’ve just come to town, an outing for the group chat, date night or just an excuse to eat out – the pressure is real. And don’t worry, I feel it too.

So to the delight of your decision-fatigued brain, here are Brisbane’s best-in-show dining experiences that are not to be missed (in no particular order).

Do you think we’ve missed one? Slide into our DMs and let’s talk food.

Azteca

The same team who brought you Brissie venues such as Carmen Tequileria, Lina Rooftop, Soko Rooftop and more have announced their next venture, and it’s a big one. 

Located within the $3.6 billion Queens Wharf precinct, Azteca is set to become your new favourite dining destination.

With a kitchen helmed by Chef Zac Sykes, diners can expect a Latin American atmosphere with Asian fusion dining, complete with polished interiors that transport you and dreamy views over the Brisbane city skyline.

You can expect dishes like Elgin Valley free-range chicken covered in dark chocolate mole sauce, dry-aged Gooralie free-range pork served with grilled pineapple and fermented jalapeno, but don't stop after the mains.

The desserts on offer are truly transcendent, and shouldn't be missed when you dine at this top-notch spot.

Sitchu Tip: Order the Carnival Cooler for a cocktail so fresh, you'll almost float.

The Terrace (Level 4), The Star Brisbane

Agnes

With their moody lighting and wood-fired flavours, Agnes is a no-brainer on the list of essential eats in Brisbane. Often booked out well in advance, this restaurant is the brainchild of Brisbane foodie royalty; Tyron Simon (of Honto and sAme sAme), Bianca Marchi, Frank Li and Ben Williamson (ex-Gerard’s).

Built around the concept of cooking on an open fire, the flavours infused into each dish at Agnes take your taste buds on a journey into smokey new dimensions. With five other venues within their portfolio, the Anyday group restaurants are a safe bet for a delicious time.

22 Agnes Street, Fortitude Valley

Midtown

Why not make plans to meet for a martini?

Impress the group chat by making a date to visit this intimate bar for a two-sip martini. Perfect for date night, Midtown is a cosy, 40-seater bar in the thriving foodie hub of Fish Lane.

Split into three distinct areas (Uptown, Midtown and Downtown), guests can opt for a casual, private or alfresco experience when they visit this supper club for a classic cocktail and a bite to eat.

When it comes to the menu, you’re in safe hands. Midtown is operated by the brilliant duo behind One Fish Two Fish, so expect to nibble on dishes with Spanish, Italian and Balkan influence.

Sitchu Tip: Midtown is one of the very few places you can eat dinner after 9pm, which makes it a rare gem in my books.

15 Manning Street, South Brisbane

The Lex at The W Hotel

The Lex channels the energy of a New York City grill, but with all the sophistication and flair you’ve come to expect from the Marriott family.

Serving up impressive tomahawk steaks, the bougiest tater tots you’ve ever eaten and a Caesar salad that’s hand-tossed at your table, a dining experience here is not one you’ll soon forget. Chef Pawel Klodowski and his team plate up some of the most flavourful and opulent dishes that showcase the breadth of his experience, and you’d be remiss not to experience it!

81 North Quay, Brisbane

Carmen

Carmen Tequileria is a haven of fresh Mexican eats, sparkling zero-waste cocktails, artisanal mezcal and imminent good times. One of the newer ventures from Potentia Leisure, Carmen has become a fast favourite in the Sitchu team’s books. They’ve just started offering brekkie which has been an instant hit.

The kitchen is dedicated to exploring ways to up-cycle and reduce waste at every possible point and the flavour-packed menu doesn't disappoint. Grab your bestie and book in for an afternoon of share plates at this gorgeous restaurant.

70 James Street, Fortitude Valley

ZA ZA TA

In a rare move for a hotel restaurant, ZA ZA TA is striking out with a bold move of an exclusively plant-based menu offering, both in their restaurant and the attached sister bar, Bar KAZBA.

With a focus on fine dining and inspiring patrons to forget that they’re eating meat-free, Chef Michael Jackson and his team plate up creative and flavourful Middle Eastern fare for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Seasonal produce takes centre stage, with each dish bursting with colour, flavour and freshness. Even meat lovers will enjoy a visit to one of the best vegan restaurants in Brisbane for upscale eats that help you increase your daily veggie intake.

Each visit to this funky Fortitude Valley restaurant will leave you wanting more, yet feeling full from indulging in the meaty menu (if you’ll excuse the pun).

1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Casa Chow

Casa Chow is an Instagrammable dream with custom-programmed lighting, curved architecture, and pastel tones. Facing onto Logan Road from the South City Square Dining Precinct, this is the perfect spot to dine if you don’t want to face the hassle of getting into the city.

With vibes that match the setting, this fun Peruvian-Chinese fusion bar and restaurant plates up vibrant and flavourful food and some of the tastiest cocktails in town. An in-house DJ pumps out Latin beats to keep the energy high and the good times constant.

4b/148 Logan Road, Woolloongabba

Restaurant Dan Arnold

The most highly rated hatted restaurant in Brisbane is none other than Restaurant Dan Arnold, located in Fortitude Valley, with Chef’s Hat Award of 17 against its name.

Helmed by Brisbane native Dan Arnold, his experience spans six years as sous-chef of French Michelin-starred Restaurant Serge Vieira, where he built up his concept and dream for his very own restaurant back at home in our humble river city.

Opening doors in 2018, RDA dishes up tasting menus using ingredients from small producers and local farms, to craft thoughtful and elegant food in a relaxed and informal setting.

959 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Exhibition

Exhibition is an intimate space built underneath the Metro Arts Theatre of Brisbane that seats just 24 patrons at a time. Dining at this hatted restaurant in Brisbane is truly one of the most unique experiences you can have in our city, with a rare multi-sensory immersion part of your food journey.

Taking inspiration from the Japanese omakase-style (chef’s choice) and continuing the building’s legacy with live theatrical displays, visual arts and performances, you can simply sit back and await the delicious morsels of premium seafood, meats and mouthwatering paired accompaniments.

Head chef and owner Tim Scott takes pride in challenging themselves to continually deliver unique, sustainable and locally sourced plates, inspired by a variety of cuisines and prepared via various methods of traditional and modern cooking.

109 Edward Street, Brisbane

Now that you’ve got a list of Brissie’s must-do restaurants under your belt, it might be time to move on to the best new cafes for some brekkie options! Or if you’re looking for somewhere to head after dinner for a nightcap, try one of the best bars around Brisbane.