The 25 best restaurants in Brisbane

What is it? Taro's Ramen outlets are now a quartet, where you'll find a quick, bone-warming noodle soup fix seven days a week.

Why go? Fans are fiercely loyal to the umami-rich pork broth and silky housemade noodles on offer in owner-chef Taro Akimoto’s ever-expanding ramen empire, which he’s perfected over the past decade. And whether you reside to the north or south of the Brisbane River, there’s a Taro’s Ramen awaiting your rumbling stomach. The noodle haunts each have their own flair, with outdoor seating a highlight of the Ascot locale and a great deal of sunlight beaming through the plentiful window panes at the South Brisbane eatery. In a bid for efficiency which in turn is slightly novel too, you’ll be ordering your meal via the tableside touchscreen – just thumb what you want and before your very eyes, your Japanese treats will appear. Eight-year-old us would have passed out from excitement. Speaking of food, Taro’s mainstay is the creamy tonkatsu, or the ochre-hued fire tonkatsu if spice (no, really) is your thing. The busy, no-nonsense outlets are all for customising your bowl too, so add on those bamboo shoots and stock up on kimchi. 

Time Out tip: Tell your vegan friends about Taro’s Ramen – there are plenty of options for plant-based diners, including three different bowls of the good stuff.

Address: Multiple venues, inc. Ascot, Brisbane, South Brisbane

Opening hours: Depending on location

Expect to pay: More than $19 for a bowl of ramen

What is it? The brainchild of chef and co-owner Ben Williamson, who shuns electricity in favour of an open wood-fired kitchen with all its tantalising sights and smells.

Why go? In the heart of The Valley, you’ll find an industrial-chic restaurant pushing the boundaries of what can be accomplished in a kitchen using exclusively the power of woodfire and smoke. Agnes Restaurant brings precision to this unwieldy and demanding medium. The chefs use different types of wood – ironbark, apple wood, cherry wood and olive wood – to uniquely interact with each of the dishes, whether it be Wagyu sirloin, pork tomahawk, Murray cod or potato flatbread. The ever-changing menu flows with the seasons and Agnes brings regional suppliers and farmers to the forefront of your dining experience with the freshest possible meat, seafood and vegetables – it makes all the difference. You’ll want something to carry it over and fortunately, the team at Agnes has curated an impressive cellar of over 1,400 bottles from across Europe and Australia. Perch up somewhere across the three levels – aside the open kitchen in the main dining room, at the wine bar, or perhaps the terrace for some sweet sunshine.

Time Out tip: Agnes Restaurant state that ‘it’s not fine dining, but not entirely casual’, – do with that information what you will, but we reckon it’s great for a date or a hang with your mates, either way.

Address: 22 Agnes Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5:15pm-10pm; Fri 12pm-11pm; Sat 11:30am-11pm; Sun 11:30am-5pm

Expect to pay: More than $70 a head for a main

What is it? Grab a mouthful of Middle Eastern-inspired cuisine from the sultan of James Street dining.

Why go? Every city should be so lucky as to have a bistro like Gerard's. The new-look restaurant offers a beguiling mash-up of Middle Eastern and modern Australian cuisines, with dishes designed to share. The game plan is simple: breads and dips, raw and fermented plates, seafood and meat mains, then desserts. You could also easily opt for one of Gerard's set menus, featuring signatures like the fresh barbari bread with a side of goat's curd, the crisp 'awamat' savoury doughnut with green mango, and the hero Margra lamb collar with special spices. And it ain’t just whacked on the plate either – Gerard’s artful kitchen staff carefully curate each dish with love, and heaps of verdant and vermillion coloured ingredients too. Think cute little tarts, stacked desserts, silky sauces, and beds of yoghurt. Wines are in focus at Gerard’s Bistro too, hailing from every corner of the world, like the white Domaine Disznoko Dry Furmint from Hungary, the orange Radikon Ribolla from Italy, and the red Alain Graillot ‘Syrocco’ Syrah from Morocco. Seasonal cocktails are a huge hit too. As for Gerard’s ambience, the rustic-contemporary dining room is licked with earthy tones and the overhead lighting radiates softly through a mega perspex – they’ve even won awards for the design. There's also an open kitchen for all your perusing needs. 

Time Out tip: Gerard’s Bistro gives big date night energy – it’s sleek, it’s sexy and the food is equally as divine.

Address: 14/15 James Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5:30pm-12am; Fri-Sat 12pm-3pm, 5:30pm-12am

Expect to pay: More than $90 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? A Neapolitan restaurant serving up classics with a flair in a decked-out dining room.

Why go? You're welcomed like part of the family at Tony Percuoco's Fortitude Valley restaurant and pizzeria. Percuoco cut his teeth in the world of hospitality, born into a family of restaurateurs in Naples, and he brings every bit of that Italian passion to the kitchen and dining room of his beloved Ristorante Tartufo. Classic Italian dishes are given a modern twist and there are no shortcuts taken with all bread, pizza dough, pasta and gelato, made lovingly in-house. A bellissimo trio not to miss is Percuoco's entrée of vitello tonnato (thinly sliced braised veal), main dish of puttanesca reef fish, and dessert panna cotta delivered to the table in just-set and wobbling glory. The pizzas and pastas are a menu mainstay too and it’s hard to knock the porchetta pie and funghi fettuccine, respectively. As you twirl your s’getti and spoon your risotto, you’ll be feeling some kind of way in the mid-century eating hall. The golden embellishments and pressed metal ceiling add a touch of class to the fast-paced Tartufo.

Time Out tip: Dress up or dress down – everyone is welcome at Ristorante Tartufo no matter the occasion.

Address: 1000 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Tues-Sat 12pm-3pm, 5:30pm-11pm; Sun 12pm-3pm, 5:30pm-8pm

Expect to pay: More than $50 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? The twin restaurant to Sydney’s waterfront venue, Otto Brisbane continues to celebrate the legacy of evocatively simple yet polished Italian cuisine.

Why go? Having newly engraved itself in the ultra-scenic shore of Brisbane’s lush South Bank, the glasshouse venue welcomes both a casual spritz and afternoon sprawls all summer long (thank the lord for our city’s extended heated months). The affair of Otto’s alfresco osteria and ristorante with its locale screams seasonal allure aside an indulgent romance. The unashamedly simplistic interpretations of Italian classics only intensify our summer lust to saturate in summer rays and share stories between nimble bites of citrus oil-enrobed crudo and curvaceous Skull Island prawns. The locally-sourced ingredients speak for themselves, but the handmade pasta does most of the talking. Rake up agnolotti with braised veal shin, smoked eggplant and caponata, alongside spaghettini with Champagne lobster, garlic, chilli, white wine, lemon butter and bottarga (cured, salted fish roe). They’ll set you back about 60 bucks each, but heck, sometimes splashing out is a necessity (happy birthday in advance, we guess). Wash it all down with an Italian vino, of course.

Time Out tip: Dive right into Otto’s wine selection – the list is award-winning, we’ll have you know.

Address: 1 Sidon Street, South Bank, South Brisbane

Opening hours: Wed-Sun 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm

Expect to pay: More than $80 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? Pizza fit for a Roman ruler is what you’ll find at Julius, the hip younger sibling of Brisbane’s Beccofino restaurant and pizzeria.

Why go? Set across the road from Queensland’s Cultural Centre in South Brisbane, Julius Pizzeria is as tempting as can be after a long day of browsing historical works of art and age-old dinosaur bones. The restaurant's beating heart is a custom-made Stefano Ferrara wood-fired oven from Naples, which pumps out a creative yet classic range of both rosse (Napoli sauce base) and bianche (white base) pies. We suggest ordering one of each, leaving lots of stomach space for the Patate e Pancetta with potatoes, pancetta, mozzarella, scamorza and rosemary. And while Julius Pizzeria have undoubtedly nailed their dough game, their other menu offerings shine just as bright. Sink your teeth into the fried baby calamari, boneless pork spare ribs or perhaps the grilled Abrolhos Islands octopus with chickpeas and Sicilian olives – a winning combo in our books. The hotspot is casual, but clean-cut – exposed red bricks keep it old-school while illuminated bottles of Campari zhuzh things up a bit.

Time Out tip: Pairing your Italian feast with a limoncello works a treat, FYI.

Address: 77 Grey Street, South Brisbane

Opening hours: Tues 5pm-9:30pm; Wed-Thurs 12pm-9:30pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-10pm; Sun 12pm-9pm

Expect to pay: More than $27 for a pizza

What is it? With crystal chandeliers, a spacious main banquet hall and plush velvet seating, Donna Chang’s ode to Chinese cuisine harmonises authentic Sichuan and Cantonese flavours with modern elegance. The CBD fine diner is an intersection of East and West; patrons will find themselves housed in heritage-listed interiors while endeavouring through an odyssey of modern shared plates.

Why go? Numbing, cooling, strange, mouth-watering is met with an equal amount of woodfire and rich emulsions of fermented chilli mayonnaise and beef fat vinaigrette in Donna Chang’s epic menu. Enjoy the musical embrace of sitting in the main dining hall or make a reservation in the private mezzanine for a ceaseless evening of flavourful morsels and a dalliance of the best of locally sourced seafood kisses. On Sundays, Donna Chang hosts an exquisite yum cha between 10am and 12pm where you can delve into an array of flavours and textures from delicate pastries and pan-fried savoury buns to steamed ribs and slippery dumplings that transport you to faraway lands with just one bite.

Time Out tip: The union of innovation and antiquity sings out for your favourite pant-suit, frock or button-up. 

Address: 3/171 George Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 12pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-12am; Sun 10am-10:30pm

Expect to pay: More than $60 a head for a proper meal

What is it? An Indian institution in Wellington Point, serving traditional north Indian food with a western twist. 

Why go? This gem of a restaurant, one of Brisbane’s oldest, has been loved by locals since husband-and-wife team Dharminder (David as he’s known to regulars) and Sheena opened it in 1998. Step inside and you'll be whisked away to the city of Jaipur, with vibrant artworks, bright orange tablecloths and charming trinkets setting the scene. This warmth and energy extend to the alfresco footpath seating, where you can enjoy a romantic night under the twinkling fairy lights. Deciding what to order at Jaipur Palace is no easy feat. Start your royal feast with spiced potato samosas and tandoori drumsticks, then fill the table with signature curries, like the chicken tikka masala, chilli prawn goa or butter paneer (that’s a firm, non-aged cheese that keeps its shape when heated – give it a try). Mop it up with one of 13 specialty naan breads on offer, including cheese and chilli, peshwari of desiccated coconut, sultanas and almonds, or gluten-free garlic.

Time Out tip: Jaipur Palace is a fair drive south of Brisbane’s city centre, so we recommend making a day of it and checking out the nearby reserves and beaches, maybe even Raby Bay’s canals, too.

Address: 3/379 Main Road, Wellington Point

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 4pm-9pm; Fri-Sat 4pm-9:30pm

Expect to pay: More than $30 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? A chic modern Italian restaurant inspired by the Amalfi Coast.

Why go? Massimo Restaurant and Bar sits prettily on the river and puts the luxurious charm of the Amalfi Coast into its clean, modern space and menu. Brick-red striped booths and terrazzo tables host a menu that celebrates the sea. Oysters shine with Massimo’s tomato and limoncello granita, and live lobster and marron from tanks await to be chargrilled with lemon or garlic butter, or tossed through house-made spaghetti. Inventive snacks catch the eye like the cacio e pepe croquettes as well as the Wagyu lasagne bites, while old faithful are close by waiting to catch you at your most indecisive moments – did someone say house-made focaccia and eggplant parmigiana? Massimo’s $54-a-head banquet menu is fantastic value, with highlights including crispy calamari with nduja (spicy fermented sausage paste) cream, and a perfectly cooked eye fillet. That’s available every dang day of the week between 11am and 6pm – get it while it’s hot.

Time Out tip: Massimo’s Eagle Bay backdrop means one thing and one thing only – a post-eats stroll along the riverside in the shadow of the Brisbane City skyscrapers.

Address: 123 Eagle Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10pm

Expect to pay: More than $50 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? Provocatively unassuming, hidden behind brass doors is a sultry diner masquerading in the dining precinct of Fortitude Valley. Commemorating the best of local and seasonal produce, executive chef Phil Marchant’s beguiling showcase of all things raw, pickled, smoked and grilled is a delightful contrast against James Street’s more illustrious venues.

Why go? Opened in 2021, Essa’s signature green-marble enclosure of the bar and open kitchen is a monument to their ethos of honouring seasonal ingredients. Through classic technique yet unpredictable flair, the chefs attempt to make every mouthful a revelry of nature’s best. Whether you’re seated front-row to their custom-built woodfire grill or in the rear nook of this dim-lit venue, expect to be unexpectedly aroused by rotating plates that may include squid ink and truffle salami aside pickled chillies, wood-fired Moreton Bay Bugs dressed with bayleaf butter and sea herbs, or wood-fired Murray cod with a voluptuous red capsicum piperade and cashew cream. These kinds of flavour combinations are tricky to execute, but the Essa crew somehow manage to pull it all off.

Time Out tip: If you’re stuck on what to order, never fear, leave it to the experts and just hand over $108 for a tasting menu of a lifetime.

Address: 181 Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs and Sat 5pm-11pm; Fri 12pm-11pm; Sun 12pm-4pm

Expect to pay: More than $80 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? Set below the Metro Arts theatre of Brisbane, Exhibition Restaurant becomes the unexpected final act of any show. Akin to its theatrical counterparts, chef and owner Tim Scott has curated a provocative and multisensory dining experience, engaging in a seasonally evolving menu that is also a committed nod to culinary arts and craftsmanship.

Why go? The modicum of dishes on the venue’s nightly six-course exhibit can only be accredited to their devotion to Queensland’s best local and sustainable produce. It’s mod-Oz cuisine at its finest. Be prepared to immerse yourself in the spectacle and likes of abalone liver parfait served with milk bread; features of Hokkaido Island scallop aside green mango and fig leaf; and multiple monologues of rare and smoke-touched Wagyu. Words like ‘miso’, ‘dashi’, and ‘yuzu kosho’ are scattered across Exhibition’s menu which alludes to Japanese inspiration – a supreme dance partner for your curious taste buds. 

Time Out tip: Exhibition’s basement locale may be a little difficult to find. But to help you on your merry way – just pull open the big green doors, look to your right for the glowing sign, and follow it downstairs.

Address: Basement 2/109 Edward Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Tues-Sat 5pm-10pm

Expect to pay: $187 a head for the Shortened Experience, and $247 for the Exhibition Experience

What is it? Tucked in the foodie hub of Woollangabba, Detour’s share plate gallery is a refreshing celebration of inclusive and sustainable dining. 

Why go? Opened in 2017, their innovative dual menu of omnivorous and herbivorous dishes has become a bucket-list, all-encompassing eating experience and continues to magnetise all of Brisbane’s vivacious diners. The 140-seat venue coalesces contemporary techniques and influences of modern Australian cuisine in its equal celebration of all things vegetal and animal. Featuring uniquely Australian ingredients and with a menu that is almost entirely gluten-free, the contemplative invitation of emu tartare, gunpowdered Wagyu brisket to their rendition of ‘fossilised’ carrots and smoked beetroot tartare that gives its emu counterpart a run for its money, becomes universally undeniable. Detour’s world-leading wine list paired with inventive, hallmark dishes that reel in guests time and time again, equals a restaurant that’s worthy of heading out of town and into the ‘burbs. 

Time Out tip: Absolutely tell your vegetarian friends about Detour. Their inclusive menu has won them a slew of awards over the years, and there’s no stopping them now.

Address: 11 Logan Road, Woolloongabba

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-11pm

Expect to pay: More than $55 a head for a satisfying feed without drinks

What is it? Hailing from Thailand, head chef Arté Assavakavinvong blesses the River City with some of the country’s most interesting, innovative Thai cuisine exemplified at this intimate James Street diner.

Why go? Fortitude Valley is a smorgasbord when it comes to fine eateries and us Brisbane dwellers truly are spoilt for choice – fortunate in Fortitude, some may say. Anyways, Same Same are awaiting your grand entrance with their hot coals and even hotter woks at the ready. It’s all go-go-go at the open kitchen which is a dinner and show, and similarly you can watch the action of James Street at the long bench by the window, or do a spot of eavesdropping at the communal table. Either way, you’re sure to be wowed by the grandiose concrete interior that’s spread across two levels for all your Instagraming needs. A highlight of Same Same’s menu is the grilled lamb panang curry, which summons a mix of rich, hearty flavours and fresh notes of kaffir lime. You also can’t skip the grill plates, which combine traditional techniques with local Queensland seafood, like the charred tiger prawns with an aromatic choo chee curry sauce.

Time Out tip: 140 bottles of wine are yours for the sampling, and the classy ambiance calls for nothing less. 

Address: 46 James Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Mon-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri 12pm-3pm, 5pm-11pm; Sat 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-11pm; Sun 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-10pm

Expect to pay: More than $80 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? This self-titled venue is a love story by Brisbane native, chef Dan Arnold, to emulsify contemporary Australian cuisine with his French sensibilities. Located on Ann Street in Fortitude Valley, the set menu is an exceptional bespoke dining experience for first-timers.

Why go? Before you’re even attempting to decipher between the three, five and ‘Carte Blanche’ course menus on offer at Restaurant Dan Arnold, an accordion of conversational starters disguised as amuse bouchées become your fanfare. The decadence of technique-driven cuisine that can be enjoyed through as elaborate as eight dishes becomes the protagonist on a stage of bare and earthy interiors. With an ever-rotating seasonal menu, you may come across innovative dishes, like carrots immersed in a ginger and lemongrass emulsion; coral trout enrobed with beurre noisette; or Wagyu paired with ratatouille stuffed zucchini and eggplant caviar, ensuring that Arnold’s French Michelin expertise is not lost in translation. The plating is pretty and the crockery is fine, all tying in nicely with the contemporary fit-out.

Time Out tip: “We are happy to accommodate dietary requirements, except vegan,” Restaurant Dan Arnold notes. So perhaps save this spot for a night with your omnivorous pals.

Address: 10/959 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Wed-Thurs 6pm-12am; Fri-Sat 12pm-5pm, 6pm-12am

Expect to pay: Set menus start at $120 a head 

What is it? A big, fat good-times taverna in the Howard Smith Wharves precinct with a view of the Brisbane River thrown in. 

Why go? ​​Kick back on the terrace amid the giant potted olive trees and ever-present breeze. Greca is your one-way ticket to the Greek islands, minus the long-haul over yonder. Here, the nearby city skyline becomes secondary moments after that first bite of Mediterranean cuisine. Expect plenty of deep-fried crunches and citrus zaps, herbal delights and grilled affairs. Start with a couple of plates of mezedes (similar to tapas), like honey saganaki (fried cheese), battered calamari (here’s where the lemon is essential) or fava (split pea dip), which tastes way better than it sounds. Next, head for the keftedes (herby meatballs), moussaka (layered eggplant, potato, pork mince bake) and the mustard-oregano barbecue lamb chops, which should take you straight to the finish line. If heaven is what you’re aiming for, bring it home with the sweetest of katoumari (smashed filo, walnut and cream). It’s a no-brainer, really. And don’t be shy, try the Ntomato Gimlet of vodka, tomato, passionfruit and mastica (a potent resin from mastic trees that are only found on the Greek island of Chios). The islands are calling, they’re looking for you.

Time Out tip: Heading to Greca with a crew? Go all out with the Super Greek shared feast menu.

Address: Howard Smith Wharf Precinct, 3/5 Boundary Street, Brisbane

Opening hours: Mon-Sun 11:30am-12am

Expect to pay: More than $80 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? An internationally recognised restaurant serving traditional Roman fare.

Why go? After more than 15 years, owners Dan Clark and Manny Sakellarakis are still rocking the best Roman cuisine in the city. In fact, they’re up there with the best Italian restaurants in the world, according to Italian outlet Gambero Rosso, thanks to their artisanal wine list and menu committed to Roman tradition. Fried globe artichoke, a staple in Roman-Jewish cuisine, is served with lemon mascarpone and gremolata (parsley, garlic, lemon zest and olive oil), and their renditions of cacio e pepe and carbonara are a masterclass – perfectly al dente, of course. Generously portioned mains like their veal saltimbocca, and Moreton Bay Bugs doused in basil pesto cream and sun-dried tomatoes, will have you booking a trip to Rome as soon as you leave, or, another trip back to the restaurant. Either way, you’re in safe hands at 1889 Enoteca – even safer if you don’t deny a helping of tiramisu or panna cotta. Dress for the occasion too, it’s a fashionable affair within the mid-century dining room.

Time Out tip: Conveniently located across the road from The Gabba, 1889 Enoteca is an ideal spot for a pre-game or concert feed.

Address: 10-12 Logan Road, Woolloongabba

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 5:30pm-9pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm; Sun 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-9pm

Expect to pay: More than $100 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? An inner-city wine bar that lets you taste fine bottles of wine without removing the cork. 

Why go? Genuine hospitality is alive and well here: with chef-owner Paul on the pans and partner Bailee working the floor, you will be very well looked after indeed. The urban wine abode is European-inspired, but looks-wise hints at industrial, contemporary, and a little mid-century – it’s very Brisbane – somehow a little bit of everything, but still kind of works. Age-old, melted candlesticks loom over you as you sip, nibble and giggle, which with every drink whisks you off to a prohibition hideout. Speaking of drinks, La Lune Wine Co is all about the use of Coravins – a device that employs a thin needle and argon gas that allows for sampling of wine without uncorking and compromising the remaining drop. This contraption permits for all kinds of wonderful wine by the glass, and dishes designed to perfectly complement the vast array of varieties are on the cards – spanning hot dishes, raw dishes, charcuterie and cheese.

Time Out tip: We’ll be back for the best-ever kangaroo tartare with fermented chilli and eggplant – drool.

Address: 3/109 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 4pm-10pm; Fri 12pm-11pm; Sat 4pm-11:45pm

Expect to pay: More than $70 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? An award-winning Japanese diner in the West End, offering seasonal banquets, express lunches and all-day à la carte dining.

Why go? True to its name – which translates to gem in Japanese – Ippin invites guests on a culinary journey inspired by the vibrant beauty of flowers. Each dish on the extensive menu is a feast for the senses, adorned with delicate herbs and blooms. Ippin’s highlights include a refreshing plate of kingfish ceviche seasoned with yuzu koshu (chilli-citrus dressing), a deluxe platter of the day’s freshest sashimi, and caviar-jewelled nigiri. Don’t skip on house-made mystery dessert either, it very-well may be the show stopping ‘zen bonsai’ – a masterpiece of soft soy crémeux, yuzu curd, black sesame sponge and streusel. We don’t know about you, but that’s sounding pretty dang satisfying to us, and Ippin’s fit-out is equally as enticing if you’re looking for somewhere with the whole shabang. Semi-circular booths demand that you stay for a good time and a long time, while the curvaceous-intricate light fixtures add a little bit of luxury to your dining experience. High ceilings and gargantuan windows open the space right up, and Ippin’s second-storey locale is a delightful escape from the bustling West End streets below.

Time Out tip: Ippin’s open kitchen is here for all your entertainment needs – nab a seat nearby.

Address: The Garden Pavilion West Village, 2/97 Boundary Street, West End

Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 11am-2:30pm, 5pm-10:30pm

Expect to pay: More than $60 a head for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? An institution. 

Why go? Owner and chef Philip Johnson was a pioneer of the Brisbane restaurant scene and more than 20 years on, Johnson’s unfussy fare is still a favourite. In the outer north-eastern suburb of ​​Newstead, E’cco Bistro continues to keep it simple with favourites like grilled scallops, gnocchi swimming in pea velouté (silky-buttery sauce), and refreshing desserts like mango mille-feuille (layered puff pastry), strawberry pavlova, and a simply yet effective affogato. The five-course set menu – with a vegan option – is decent bang for your buck too at $120 per person for a certifiably stomach-filling feast. About 90 per cent of E’cco’s menu is gluten-free too, so no one is going hungry, not here, not today. With a full-on slew of awards behind Johnson and his E’cco brainchild, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best restaurants in Brisbane. From wine list of the year decorations to Hall of Fame and Chefs Hat prizes – the catalogue goes on and on…and on. E’cco has also been noted for its contemporary design, and we can wholeheartedly agree that it’s deserving. Timber seating and concrete accents pair wonderfully with the grey stone flooring – polished wine glasses and white fabric napkins are the cherry on top.

Time Out tip: Get in on all the action at the open kitchen’s bar seating.

Address: 8/63 Skyring Terrace, Newstead

Opening hours: Wed-Thurs 6pm-10:30pm; Fri-Sat 12pm-2:30pm, 6pm-10:30pm

Expect to pay: More than $50 a head for a filling meal without drinks

What is it? A bustling contemporary pan-Asian indoor-outdoor casual diner in Fortitude Valley.

Why go? Within the maze that is Fortitude Valley, hidden gems lurk around every corner. And you’d be all out of luck if you missed East Street’s Happy Boy. Set amongst an urban rainforest and beneath giant poinciana trees adorned with fairy lights, Happy Boy comes to life at night. The awe-inspiring surrounds act as a barrier to the bustling city life, and you’d be mistaken thinking you’re in an equatorial nation – that’s with a helping hand from the punchy flavours being dishes out left, right and centre. Spice up your life with either the fish slice or prawn and pork wontons drowned in Sichuan chilli broth, or chow down on comfort-food favourites like Taiwanese fried chicken on miniature milk buns. Vegetables are a major part of Happy Boy’s menu too and classics like the mapo tofu and fungus fried rice are sure to delight. Perk up with an Espresso Martini or keep it cool with a Margarita.

Time Out tip: Fear not if it’s pouring down with rain in typical Brissy style, Happy Boy has plenty of indoor seating for those thunderstorm-y days. It’s not as vibey, but what’re you going to do, eh?

Address: East Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Tues-Wed 11:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-8:30pm; Thurs-Fri 11:30am-2pm, 5:30pm-9:30pm; Sat 11:30am-2pm, 5pm-9:30pm; Sun 11:30am-2pm, 5pm-8:30pm

Expect to pay: More than $50 for a proper meal without drinks

What is it? A smart French restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Why go? Coming in hot with another Woolloongabba contender, C’est Bon Restaurant is here to satisfy all your Parisian dreams. From the red, fabric sun shades that decorate the building’s facade to the gold-gilded frames and provincial wooden staircase inside, C’est Bon is picture perfect. Opt for an age-old croque monsieur bagel in the AM within the quaint café, a fine glass of Champagne at noon atop the bar, or a cheeky bump of caviar in the PM up on the impressive rooftop deck. As you appreciate Brisbane’s lengthy skyline in a whole new light, relish in French flavours with a modern flair – eat up duck parfait tarts, Moreton Bay Bug éclairs and sweetcorn madeleines. For a more-so formal affair, head back downstairs to the main restaurant and pamper yourself with nettle cavatelli (pasta) with confit duck and tableside beef tartare – a plate of smoked brioche wouldn’t go astray either. 

Time Out tip: Keep an eye on C’est Bon Resturant’s socials – you might even catch some live jazz illuminated by candlelight upon your next visit. 

Address: 609/611 Stanley Street, Woolloongabba

Opening hours: Tues-Thurs 8:30am-12pm, 4pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 8:30am-11pm

Expect to pay: More than $70 a head for a proper dinner without drinks

What is it? Proof that good things come in small packages; it has just ten seats.

Why go? Since its 2019 inception, Joy has been providing guests with an intimate, immersive dining experience in the famed Fortitude Valley. This pint-sized restaurant’s kitchen and dining room are one and the same, and the succession of small dishes (about ten of them) is a little bit Scandy, a little bit Japanese, and crafted with a whole lot of heart. At Joy’s core, passion, deliciousness and storytelling are driving factors in what makes this foodie affair one to remember. Owner-chef Sarah Baldwin encourages curiosity as she works her magic before your very eyes, serving up a set menu of artfully presented morsels – oh and while washing your dishes, too. Fresh florals sit atop the communal dining bench for a pop of colour, but not with distraction to the main event. Expect the use of native ingredients incorporated into ultra-creative dishes that bring the wow-factor each and every time. Recent combinations have included ocean trout with pistachio and cumin butter, as well as a zhuzhed-up chawanmushi (Japanese steamed egg custard). A continuous slew of awards has solidified Joy as one of the best restaurants in Brisbane, if not Australia.

Time Out tip: Okay, so you definitely have to make a reservation if you’re keen on seeing what all of the fuss is about.

Address: 7/690 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Wed-Fri 6pm-11pm

Expect to pay: $205 a head for the mandatory set menu

What is it? A hotspot specialising in fresh pasta daily with 2018 beginnings.

Why go? Behind the very unassuming façade lies a hive of activity with Nicolo Campagnari and his team kneading, folding and coaxing handmade pasta into delicate tortellini and silky ribbons of fettuccine to serve his loyal following in the small dining room and fresh pasta sales outlet. There is simply no better source for the tiny bits of dough in all of Brisbane. Each and every ingredient is procured with a great deal of care – from the flour to the eggs, heck, probably even the water, and it sure does show. If you’re dining in, you’ll stumble across familiar dishes done good, like the cacio pepe and bolognese tagliatelle. The dreamy carbonara is reason enough, but the free ciabatta seals the deal – gotta be moppin’ up those precious sauces that may or may not be left at the bottom of your plate. Italian wines are a Ripiena staple and there’s no wrong questions when it comes to pairing your tipple with your tucker.

Time Out tip: Industrial-minimalist is the vibe at Ripiena with a monochrome interior allowing the pasta to take to the spotlight – so casual-cool is our recommended dresscode.

Address: 1/826 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley

Opening hours: Wed-Sat 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm; Sun 12pm-2pm, 5pm-8:40pm

Expect to pay: More than $50 a head for a proper dinner with drinks