LOCATION
Eagle Street Pier, Brisbane CBD
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Il Centro begins to work its magic before you even arrive. Whether you reach Eagle Street Pier by ferry or on foot, it is impossible not to be amazed by the gorgeous location. Although nestled among the high-rise offices and hotels of central Brisbane, the restaurant’s riverside location and glorious view of Story Bridge give it a unique atmosphere of its own. It is urban and urbane all at once. The sleek décor complements this feeling. Curved glass walls give even indoor diners full access to the stunning view. White tablecloths and dark wooden chairs create a simple yet refined setting allowing the skyline to take the eyes' attention. When owners Andy and Marcia Georges opened Il Centro in April 1992, they were told that a waterfront restaurant was a mistake. Eighteen years acquiring numerous awards and a loyal clientele have proved that advice spectacularly incorrect.
The food served is of a highly creative modern Italian style. The popular sandcrab lasagne with creamed crustacean sauce is Italian in style, but fresh and inventive in recipe. The rest of the menu follows the same appetising trend. Dishes from fresh crab and avocado salad with tomato gazpacho, to veal scaloppine with fettuccine are available, all done in an inimitably original fashion. Sommelier Shaun Gomes presides over an award-winning wine list, which offers over 250 high-quality Australian and Italian wines. Cocktails include the sumptuously-named Tuscan Sunset which is a delicate floral combination of elderflower and yellow chartreuse, perfectly complemented by the zesty botanicals of the Tanqueray Gin. Il Centro, quite simply, is an institution of rare excellence. It offers great food, stylish design and friendly service, all in one of the most scenic locations which central Brisbane has to offer.
Aran Ward Sell
DETAILS
Il Centro owners and hosts, Andy and Marcia Georges, endeavour to make every guest feel like an old friend, and together with Restaurant Manager, Zahir Meher-Homji, instill this friendly attitude in all their staff.
Il Centro Restaurant is renowned for its modern interpretation of some traditional Italian classics. The innovative menu however, has a uniquely Queensland twist – best illustrated by the signature dish, the Sandcrab Lasagne. Executive chef Catherine Anders ensures the creations remain faithful to their Sunshine State origins by ordering most of the fresh ingredients (including Queensland’s finest Seafood) from the very best local suppliers. The restaurant also boasts an impressive cellar. The wine list ensures there’s a perfect choice to compliment every meal.