Dine with a View: Brisbane’s Best Waterfront Restaurants

Customs House is home to the stunning restaurant Patina, located in the Brisbane CBD overlooking the Brisbane River. Complete with a stunning light installation in the main dining room, and earthy-toned plates paired with matte black cutlery, Patina's divine and chic interiors cement the establishment as Brisbane's most elegant dining destination. Diners are invited to enjoy fresh seasonal produce against the spectacular backdrop of the Brisbane River and Story Bridge on the outdoor terrace. 

From the ancient port of Phoenicia to a stunning riverside setting at Hamilton's Portside Wharf comes Byblos. Here, elegant and evocative surroundings play host to an inspiring Middle Eastern feast of flavours that marry contemporary flair with classic Mediterranean recipes and techniques. And, what more of a better match than its whimsical waterfront location. An outstanding drinks selection complements the dishes perfectly and the Brisbane city skyline and view of Moreton Bay create the perfect backdrop. 

Located on the riverfront at South Bank, OTTO Brisbane brings a vibrant glamour to the Queensland dining scene. Striking river views and colourful interiors meet warm and assured service. The food at OTTO takes inspiration from the southern regions of Italy. Head Chef Will Cowper's menu is fresh, seasonal and produce-driven. The wine list at OTTO is inspired by a love for Italian varietals, and will capture any wine lover's attention, with a decisive line up of classic and esoteric Italian regions and varietals.

Boasting 180 degree views of the Brisbane River, from the iconic Story Bridge to the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Blackbird Restaurant is one of Brisbane's most popular waterfront restaurants. The sustainably sourced menu has a strong focus on locally sourced Queensland produce. Imported from America, the kitchen utilises a one-of-a-kind wood fired grill that delivers results on the dry aged beef. With two intimate private dining rooms, plus various other rooms, including the option for exclusive hire of the venue, Blackbird is a popular option for functions and events. 

The brainchild of Jason and Katie Coats, The Jetty Southbank is more than just a pretty picture. Located at the new River Bend precinct, this 90-seater restaurant features a modern Balinese menu brought to life by chef Paul McGivern. This unique riverside aspect, coupled with an interior of whitewashed and dark timbers, natural stone and metal surfaces makes The Jetty South Bank stunningly stylish and a versatile backdrop for any occasion. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed waterfront dining experience in Brisbane, make your way over to South Bank’s River Quay precinct for the ever-stylish Aquitaine Brasserie. Transporting guests around France, here you’ll feel as if you’re dining along the Champs-Elysees, eating provincial farmhouse fresh produce all with that angelic French Riviera ambiance. Be sure to try the Chevre Souffle, Hawkesbury Duck Breast and finish with the Bee Pollen Panna Cotta. 

Old fashioned Italian hospitality never goes out of fashion, and doesn't veteran restaurateur Andrew Baturo know it. His most famed venture, Popolo, is part of a major revival for South Bank and the restaurant with a focus on thin crust pizza, house-made pasta and a huge range of main meals from wild boar to pheasant, knows exactly what its doing. But, if you’re needing a touch of the sweet life, Popolo will deliver that too thanks to its pristine waterfront location. 

Dine in style in the heart of the stunning city whilst overlooking the Storey Bridge at Brisbane's La Vue Waterfront Restaurant. This fine dining experience is sure to impress with a refined menu, white linen tablecloths, and old-school hospitality that is a cut above the rest. The food is inspired by the flavours of France and are elegantly brought to life through the use of fresh and local Brisbane produce. La Vue also has dedicated waterfront function spaces and menus available for those looking to celebrate a special event. 

Inside the heritage-listed Howard Smith Wharves with impressive river views, Greca Restaurant is a contemporary Greek taverna by Jonathan Barthelmess, of The Apollo and Cho Cho San fame. The beautiful warehouse space echoes Mediterranean vibes with olive trees, whitewashed walls and straw furniture, a perfect match to the classic Mediterranean hospitality. The menu is simple and designed for sharing, and the restaurant philosophy advocates slow eating. Dishes are focused around the charcoal and wood fire grill, with a focus on quality Queensland seafood. 

Stanley is a traditional Cantonese restaurant in a heritage listing building at Howard Smith Wharves. The 220-seater restaurant spans across two levels with a tasteful interior design featuring wall murals. Head Chef Louis Tikaram, who has returned to Australia after working at EP & LP in West Hollywood, has created a menu designed to be shared with the Peking duck a standout dish. If you’re looking for a riverfront restaurant in Brisbane, this is the place to be.