Nothing Beats The View at These Riverside Restaurants in Brisbane
Except perhaps for the food… So don’t hesitate to make a reservation at one of these riverside restaurants in Brisbane for your next date night.
The Brisbane River (or Maiwar, as it is known by the traditional custodians) is one of Brisbane’s most defining features. Snaking its way through the heart of the city at an enormous 344 kilometres long, it is South East Queensland’s longest river.
Once a key channel for merchant trade and international vessels, the Brisbane River now forms a backdrop to many of Brisbane City’s recreational activities, lifestyle precincts and festive events. And, it also creates a pretty romantic backdrop for dinner.
So whether you’re searching for an Instagram-worthy place to spend your happy hour, or are booking a date night meal, these riverside restaurants in Brisbane are sure to be a hit!
Yoko Dining
Yoko has brought beautiful plating and bright, flavourful food to Brisbane’s foodie scene at the ever-popular Howard Smith Wharves precinct.
The vibrant menu at Yoko spans snacks, a sashimi raw bar, izakaya plates to share and hibachi grill mains. Serving up delicious cocktails (Yuzu Slushie, anyone?) and a wide variety of meals to suit any appetite, Yoko is an excellent option to book if you’re searching for a gorgeous riverside restaurant in Brisbane.
Howard Smith Wharf Precinct, 2/5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City
Stanley
This popular Chinese and Cantonese restaurant at Howard Smith Wharves is one of the most popular dining destinations for quality eats.
Most of the menu here is dedicated to seafood, but you’ll find vegetarian and meat-based options, too!
Housed in a gorgeous heritage-listed building, we can think of few better ways to spend a languid lunch break, than sipping some sparkles and dining upon some dim sum, whilst soaking up the sunshine and stunning views from Stanley.
Howard Smith Wharf Precinct, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City
Ciao Papi
Say hello to a cheerful little Italian restaurant in the heart of HSW. Popular for its lunch deal and aperitivo hour, Ciao Papi serves an extensive sharing-style menu of seafood, pasta, chargrilled meats, and crispy thin pizzas straight from the oven.
This friendly Italian joint is ideal for date night dinner (end on a sweet note with gelato or tiramisu), or for group gatherings when you’re looking for somewhere fun to celebrate with your friends. The alfresco-style seating perfectly suits the riverside setting - good times are guaranteed when you dine here.
Howard Smith Wharf Precinct, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City
Babylon
Babylon is a sprawling Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant and bar on the banks of the Brisbane River and is a natural addition to our list of Brisbane riverside restaurants.
This riverside venue cascades down three levels that encompass multiple bars, terraces, and vibrant dining spaces. The interiors are inspired by the once-thriving metropolis, as well as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon.
If you’d rather be closer to the water, book in at Babylon Gardens, the venue’s waterfront alfresco bar and a more casual dining spot for those seeking a CBD dining destination or a post-work drink.
Sit by the water and enjoy the gorgeous view, fresh air and decadent cocktails at this stunning Brisbane venue.
145 Eagle Street, Brisbane City
Alchemy Restaurant and Bar
One of Brisbane’s most popular fine dining restaurants also boasts dreamy, waterfront views of the Brisbane River.
Alchemy Restaurant and Bar is best enjoyed at twilight, so that you can watch the sunset and the city lights come to life. This contemporary Australian restaurant serves exquisite cuisine, meticulously crafted by chef Brad Jolly, and is perfect for date nights or special occasions.
175 Eagle Street, Brisbane City
Blackbird
With sweeping views of the river, Blackbird is one of Brisbane’s most popular riverside restaurants. The outdoor terrace has 180-degree views for you to enjoy while you dine on elevated modern Australian cuisine and sip wine from the cellar.
Spread over two levels with an ambient bar and elegant private dining rooms available for events, Blackbird is a must-visit when you’re hankering after a meal or cocktails by the water.
123 Eagle Street, Brisbane City
Madame Wu
This riverside restaurant in Brisbane is favoured for its delicious Asian fusion cuisine and elegant dining setting. Step through the bamboo entrance and move through the shadowed lighting to sit down for a meal bursting with vibrancy and flavour.
Madame Wu has an extensive cellar to sip from and a signature cocktail bar manned by an in-house mixologist. Share plates of exquisite Asian eats crafted from top-quality Australian produce for the ultimate Brisbane riverside dining experience.
Upper Plaza Level, 71 Eagle Street, Brisbane City
Patina at Customs House
Patina at Customs House is one of the prettiest riverside restaurants Brisbane has to offer, boasting uninterrupted views of the water and the Story Bridge.
Patina is popular for its high tea and pop-up activations, you don’t need a special excuse to visit. Its farm-to-table philosophy menu is on offer for casual dining in a luxurious setting.
399 Queen Street, Brisbane
Tillerman Seafood Restaurant
Seafood with a view? Say no more.
Tillerman invites you to dine on sumptuous seafood, influenced by coastal European flavours. Sample freshly shucked oysters, Balmain and Moreton Bay Bug and their ever-popular bouillabaisse.
Accompany your meal with something from the bespoke cocktail menu, or select from the extensive wine menu that showcases local and international producers.
71 Eagle Street, Brisbane City
Now that you’ve explored all the best riverside restaurants in Brisbane, you might want to check out our guide to Howard Smith Wharves. We’ve also curated your essential guide to Brisbane’s best happy hours, to keep the good times rolling.
