Brisbane

Brisbane, capital of Queensland, is a large city on the Brisbane River. Clustered in its South Bank cultural precinct are the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, with noted interactive exhibitions. Another South Bank cultural institution is Queensland Gallery of Modern Art, among Australia's major contemporary art museums. Looming over the city is Mt. Coot-tha, site of Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
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Top places to visit

4.6
(12353)
4.5
(8244)
Mentioned on 
Zoo
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, located just north of Brisbane's CBD, is the world's largest koala sanctuary and a haven for Australian native wildlife. Visitors can watch koalas lounging in gumtrees, hand-feed kangaroos, and observe endangered species like the cassowary. The sanctuary offers keeper talks throughout the day and opportunities to learn about various Aussie wildlife while exploring at your own pace.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is truly one of Brisbane’s most special attractions and a must-visit for anyone who loves animals. From the moment you walk in, the natural bushland setting makes you feel close to wildlife in a peaceful environment. The highlight, of course, is the koalas—you can see them up close, learn about their habits, and even have the chance to gently hold one for a photo, which is an unforgettable experience. Beyond koalas, the sanctuary offers so much more. You can hand-feed kangaroos in a large open field, watch platypuses swimming, and see a variety of native birds, reptiles, and farm animals. The daily keeper talks and shows are both fun and educational, making it a great place for families and kids to learn about Australia’s unique wildlife. The staff are friendly and clearly passionate about animal care and conservation, which adds to the overall experience. The facilities are clean, well-maintained, and easy to navigate, with plenty of shaded areas to rest. There’s also a nice café with good food and drinks. Overall, Lone Pine is not just a sanctuary but a place where you truly connect with nature. Highly recommended for locals and visitors alike!
Kabir H — Google review
Easy to reach using private or public transport from the QBD. The venue hosts different species not just koalas but also Kangaroos, crocodiles, reptiles, birds. For the welfare of animals koalas cannot be hugged but guests can pay more to see them closer and cuddle them with the supervision of staff. Everybody working seemed professional and committed to preserve the welfare of the animals. A bit pricy, but considering what you get it is still worth a visit.
Riccardo D — Google review
A must-visit in Brisbane! Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is an amazing experience where you can get up close with koalas, kangaroos, and so many native Australian animals. The park is well-maintained, staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and the animals are clearly well cared for. Loved the chance to see a koala up close and feed the kangaroos such a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike!
Kuan-Yu C — Google review
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit considering it's status as the world's first, oldest, and largest koala sanctuary in the world. It was truly a special experience seeing and interacting with the koalas and kangaroos up close especially in the huge free-roam area where the kangaroos were. The park is very well-maintained, with a number of other sections with a variety of other insects and animals. Definitely worth a visit if ever in Brisbane!
Cheryl T — Google review
Is a fantastic place to visit, you can be with the Kanguru and give them a special food. if you pay a little more you can touch the koala for some minutes and take pretty nice pictures. The sanctuary space is beautiful with a very good structure, with birds, crocodile and more.
Diego C — Google review
Amazing place to visit if you want to get up close and personal with Australia's (more friendly) wildlife. Got to feed Wallabies and kangaroos and saw loads more as well. Visited via the river cruise from the city and that was a great way to do it. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in Brisbane.
Ben J — Google review
Fantastic for the whole family. The owl encounter far exceeded my expectations. Leanne and the team have so much knowledge and really know how to respect the animals and also have them guided over in a way that they seemed to be genuinely having fun. Beautiful lay out, and the Koalas were so very special.
Joy J — Google review
Excellent experience kangaroos can be fed. The Tasmanian Devil looks soft but look at those jaws and teeth. Koala are always good to watch. So is the Platypus we saw a central python as well as all the other birds and animals. Well worth the entry fee. You may want to get there early before the crowds come in we went on a week day and by lunch time there were people everywhere
Dennis H — Google review
4.5
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4.4
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Mentioned on 
Museum
Specialty Museums
Nestled within Brisbane's City Hall, the Museum of Brisbane (MoB) is a free-to-visit art gallery and museum that showcases the city's history, culture, and contemporary art. Visitors can explore historical exhibits, including artifacts like convict leg irons and a 200-year-old telescope once owned by Sir Thomas Brisbane. The museum also offers free tours of the iconic City Hall clock tower.
The Queensland Museum in Brisbane is a fascinating destination that combines history, science, culture and interactive learning in one place. Located in the South Bank cultural precinct, it is easy to access and perfect for visitors of all ages. The museum features engaging permanent exhibitions as well as rotating special displays, so there is always something new to see. Inside, you can explore topics such as Queensland’s natural history, Indigenous culture, marine life, dinosaurs and modern science. Many exhibits are hands-on and educational, making it especially enjoyable for children and families. I have visited museums in multiple Australian cities, but this one stands out for its variety, presentation quality and the balance between learning and entertainment. The museum is clean, well-organised and free to enter, which makes it an excellent value. Staff members are friendly and helpful, and the layout is easy to navigate. There are also interactive zones, multimedia displays and live demonstrations that keep visitors engaged. What I love most is that the museum connects the past and present of Queensland in a meaningful way. It is not just a place to look at objects—it tells stories. Whether you enjoy history, science or culture, this museum offers a memorable and inspiring experience. Overall, Queensland Museum is one of the best museums in Australia and a must-visit when exploring Brisbane.
王建策 — Google review
You definitely gonna need at least 2 hours there! I got there near closing time so didn’t get to see much. I was fascinated by one of the collections so spent 5 min reading and appreciating the art piece already. Staff were not rushing me to exist though. Located in the city center but it wasn’t crowded when I went. Free admission. Will definitely return.
Pattareeya P — Google review
My first to visiting the Museum of Brisbane and it was a lovely experience getting to see the FREE to enter 'Precious' exhibit, which was an awesome array of people collections from over the years. There were all sorts, tea tins, medicine boxes, shells, toys, glass, football memorabilia, axes. Really cool to get to walk through and explore the exhibit and I can't wait to see what they have on next.
Nickorlz B — Google review
It's a Brisbane city icon, the Clock Tower tour located a top of the tower, is particularly recommended. To access it, reserve your preferred visit time online in advance and once you arrive, you'll be able to tour in a small group with a guide starting at the Clock Tower Entry located in the level 3. The museum guide will also provide a brief overview of Brisbane's history and surrounding area, making it a great destination for families with children.
Ik L — Google review
Museum of Brisbane is a gem right in the city center—beautifully designed, easy to access, and completely free to enter. The space itself is impressive, with lovely architecture that adds to the whole experience. The exhibitions are resourceful and engaging, offering a great mix of history, culture, and local stories. A perfect stop whether you’re exploring the city or just looking for something inspiring to do.
Benjamin A — Google review
It a small interesting museum made by contribution from Australians from various diaspora (the first one I've seen that has Indian 'Golu' display). It is a good place to visit of you like peace and quiet or want to go on a Introvert dates. You can even take your family members along and spend time looking and discussing things. While looking at some historic Brisbane references. Not a Museum in a traditional sense, but one nonetheless. You can spend about an hour or so here, and it's best priced (Free!).
Sid S — Google review
Beautiful place to visit, the museum is located on the 3rd level of CityHall. The place is not a huge as expected but very nice history of the City of Brisbane. It took me only 35 mins to see all of them.
Bilitis S — Google review
What a great surprise! We didn’t know there was a museum in the city hall. We did a free tour of city hall and the clock tower (love!) and ended up at the museum. Loved it.
Massie B — Google review
Level 3, Brisbane City Hall, 64 Adelaide St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australiahttps://www.museumofbrisbane.com.au/?utm_source=Google&utm_mediu+61 7 3339 0800Tips and more reviews for Museum of Brisbane
4.7
(12912)
4.5
(2217)
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Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Brisbane, the City Botanic Gardens is a captivating botanical haven that offers a diverse range of plant life, tranquil ponds, and inviting picnic areas. This verdant oasis serves as a living museum of botanical collections and provides an idyllic escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Visitors can explore manicured lawns, riverside pathways shaded by majestic fig trees, and charming ponds inhabited by ducks.
Peaceful escape right in Brisbane’s city centre 🌿📸 City Botanic Gardens is one of those places that instantly slows you down. The mix of riverside views, tall palm avenues, and giant fig trees makes it super photogenic — especially around sunrise or sunset when the light hits the water. I love coming here for a quiet walk, a jog, or to just sit under the trees and watch the city go by. The pathways are well-maintained, and there are plenty of open lawns perfect for picnics. Don’t miss the mangrove boardwalk — it’s a hidden gem and great for nature shots. There’s also a small café near the entrance if you want coffee with a view, and QUT and the ferry terminal are just a short walk away, so it’s really easy to get here.
Ruchit P — Google review
Nice area for a walk right next to CBD although it did feel more like a park as opposed to a botanical garden. Lots of areas were also under maintenance or blocked out for improvements during our visit. The walking area next to the river is nice and calming, and overall the park in general does give you a little bit of that separation from city bustle. Public toilets available though I didn't go in to check condition. Free access.
Sventek — Google review
Located right in the heart of Brisbane, the Botanic Gardens feel like a completely different world — a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery. Right beside the city’s skyscrapers, you can enjoy the striking contrast between nature and urban life. A pond with fountains, colorful flowers, and tropical plants welcome you, making every step along the paths soothing and refreshing✨ It’s perfect for a walk or picnic, and truly serves as an oasis in the middle of sightseeing. —A precious moment to take a deep breath and relax, right in the center of the city🪴
Ai W — Google review
We took a walk in the Botanic Gardens at dawn, and it was absolutely tranquil and beautiful. We watched the sunrise from the riverwalk before wandering into the garden. Even at dawn, the pathways were softly lit with ambient lights, creating a magical and peaceful atmosphere. A truly lovely experience!
H L — Google review
Beautiful location alongside the Brisbane River, a wonderful stroll will showcase the plants & flowers with plenty to see 👀 or just sit on the grounds taking in the greenscape with the cbd skyscrapers in parts being the backdrop. Well maintained & HUGE credit to all those who look after such relaxing & refreshing area's for one & all to admire .ideal for family picnics or just reading,weddings, along with riding,running or walking . Big Shout out to the cafe that is a lovely hidden treasure of a old cottage or caretakers home ? that caters for people wanting something to eat n drink.
Paul T — Google review
Beautiful space to relax and spend some time in admiring the native plants and many birds. You can walk down to the riverfront as well. It's a lovely, tranquil and well maintained park.
Babs M — Google review
One of the reasons I always admire Australia and New Zealand: spaces like the City Botanic Gardens. So beautifully maintained and preserved, it’s hard to believe you’re still in the middle of the city. Walking through the lush greenery is incredibly peaceful, and there’s something genuinely refreshing about being surrounded by nature like this.
Neurostella — Google review
Visited Afterglow 27/9/25. What a beautiful display. Great to wander through the gardens. Big thumbs up to organisers & team who put it together. (Took a week each)
Gillian M — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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Art gallery
Museums
The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) is a contemporary art museum located in a modern riverside building in Brisbane, Australia. Established in 2006 as an extension of the Queensland Art Gallery, GOMA has quickly gained recognition as one of the largest modern and contemporary art galleries in Australia.
Had the pleasure of visiting the Gallery of Modern Act this afternoon. The venue is outstanding and so well maintained. There are 4 levels of exhibitions and they are all modern and contemporary. It is appropriate because there are exhibitions that challenge modern ideas and social norms. Thank you to everyone who is involved in the management and services provided at the Gallery. If you haven't visited, do yourself a favour and come experience the excellence here.
Tim V — Google review
The Gallery of Modern Art is truly inspiring! The exhibitions are diverse and well-curated, offering both international and local perspectives. The space is bright, open, and beautifully designed, making it enjoyable to explore at your own pace. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere is welcoming for all ages. A must-visit in Brisbane!
邱雅馨 — Google review
Good place to visit on weekend going out. It was free to see art exhibitions. This is next normal art museum. And also near Queensland library . It is very nice area and enjoyable. I visited both. It took around 3 hours total . 10mins from Brisbane south station. I visited with my family. Quiet and quality arts . Also there are nice cafe. If you don’t like noisy place , here is calm and quiet and makes you feel relax and enjoyable.
Yellow A — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Knowledgeable and friendly experts to guide you through individual sections of the gallery. A carefully selected art work both domestic and international. I particularly appreciate the indigenous artists creation, beautiful and meaningful. The cafe wasn't too bad either, delicious toasted sandwich with a bunch of different food to cater for different dietary requirements. Definitely, worth a visit here.
Pc T — Google review
A truly beautiful art center — every floor has its own unique character and charm! It’s also incredibly family-friendly. The children’s area was wonderful, and Clare was exceptionally warm, friendly, and welcoming. Her bright smile and kindness made our visit such a joyful and memorable experience. Highly recommended! Instagram: @hkiscooll
陳弘康 — Google review
Loved this museum. Its big, not too busy and has wonderful exibitions! Plus its free. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Def. kid friendly with a cafe + play area on the river if you need refreshments.
Rinske S — Google review
The curators managed to take such a familiar fairytale and present it in a way that was fresh, imaginative, and deeply immersive. From the delicate costumes and sparkling gowns to the intricate set designs that re-created iconic moments, every corner of the exhibition invited you to pause, look closer, and get swept up in the magic. What I loved most was how it balanced nostalgia with creativity. The exhibition wasn’t just about retelling the fairytale—it explored how Cinderella has been reinterpreted in different cultures and across different mediums, from paintings and fashion to film and pop culture. Walking through, it felt both whimsical and thought-provoking, reminding me how stories we grow up with continue to evolve and inspire. If you’re in Brisbane, this exhibition is an absolute must-see, whether you’re a lover of art, fairytales, or just want to experience a touch of enchantment.
Rita M — Google review
The Gallery of Modern Art offers a wonderful chance to see the world through the eyes of different artists — a perfect place to slow down and reflect on life. What touched me most was an artwork tracing a family tree that reminded us that, thousands of years ago, we were all connected as one big family. It made me wonder — why do we still create so many divisions between races today?
Annie L — Google review
Mentioned on 
South Bank is a vibrant and bustling area in London, located along the southern bank of the River Thames. It's known for its lively atmosphere, with an array of cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and take leisurely strolls along the riverfront promenade. South Bank is also home to iconic landmarks such as the London Eye, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, and the Tate Modern art gallery.
South Brisbane QLD, AustraliaTips and more reviews for South Bank

Top places to eat

4.5
(1083)
4.5
(592)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
Gerard’s Bistro is a chic dining spot that offers a fusion of flavors from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The restaurant collaborates with OzHarvest, donating all proceeds to their food rescue program. They serve premium sausages created by local establishments like Bucci and Chow House. Additionally, they host unique events such as BBQ brunches and culinary food and drink matching experiences.
You don’t go there for the space or the setting. Yet it’s memorable. It accentuates the quality of the food and restaurant, so in that way its fantastic. Service was the kind that sets the tone and expectations for the whole evening, relaxed but professional to the level you kind of forget about it. The fish was all time good. The lamb inspiring, as everyday flavours paired and prepared exceptionally well. Presentation all fantastic. The wine by the glass prompted some online shopping later.
Jimmy P — Google review
We came on a Tuesday night to celebrate the husband's birthday and we're blown away by the food and service. Every dish was so flavorful and well presented. Cocktails were delicious. Thank you for a lovely dinner Team!
Mary N — Google review
Came here with my family for something different. The food is unique and taste absolutely great. The way the sauces were combined with the food is extraordinary. The lovely lady who worked there was so lovely. She noticed that my mother was feeling cold and offered to bring her hot water with a couple of lemon slices. The downside of it all was the size compared to the price. If you are a big eater, the plates will not fill you up. One dish was meant to be shared for 2 people, but it looked like it was for one.
Jojo L — Google review
One of the most fabulous tasting menus in Brisbane, but the atmosphere can make enjoying it difficult. The octopus, and steak are two of the highlights of brisbane, absolutely recommended, but the entire tasting menu was delightful, except for the Tuna. The portions are hearty, the food near heavenly, and the cocktails were passable. The major drawback is the noise level of the restaurant, a loud crescendo that made it difficult to talk to others. Even with all that the meal has stayed on our mind and we will definitely return, though perhaps for outside quieter seating.
Leo — Google review
Had the 85 set menu. It doesn't sound like a lot of food but there is plenty and we left very full. The Barbari bread: fresh, soft and nicely charred. The spices are fragrant and not overpowering. Hummus with black barley: great depth of flavour in the hummus and very smooth. The texture of the black barley was paired well with the smooth texture of the hummus. Coral trout shawarma: least impressive dish on the menu - not enough flavour. Lamb shoulder: absolutely banging. The meat was super tender and juicy and the skin was crisped which gave it a fantastic mouth feel. Simit bread: so soft and fluffy! Chat potatoes crispy greens went so well with the soft potatoes. Knafeh with pistachio: perfectly warm and smooth. Not too sweet and very fragrant. Super delicious. Service was quick and warm. Beautiful ambience. Great lunch experience.
Phyllis C — Google review
Celebrated a special birthday dinner with my wife at Gerard's. We shared two starters and two mains, which was probably too much food for the two of us. For starters we had the Manoushe and the Baba ganoush - the Baba ganoush was outstanding! For main we shared the whole wood fire baked trout and the shoulder of lamb, and elected not to have any sides, which given the portions was a wise decision! Both were delicious, however I would give the trout the winning hand given how the flesh was perfectly cooked, and the charred skin just added to the overall flavour. Thaank-you Gerard's for making this a special evening for us both - we will be back again to try the other items on your menu soon.
Grant C — Google review
I’ll be honest, I was was super excited to come here… it’s been on my foodie list for quite some time and I’ve heard wonderful things. But from the minute we sat down however, and within 10 minutes, a staff member came to ask twice if we’ll order food after drinks. The restaurant was completely empty aside from one table, given it’s a Wednesday afternoon. His service put us off and we couldn’t relax, so we decided against ordering food at that time so immediately he ordered we move to bar. I voiced my concerns to him for moving us like this after just sitting down and he said he has a booking in 25 minutes so wanted to reset … and it was horrible service. I’m so sad as I have always wanted to come here and we were genuinely shocked service could be so bad especially when restaurant is empty :( the food has always looked great but that’s put us off. I’m hoping this was just a one off situation, but even after communicating our upset he seemed apathetic. Won’t be back but hoping others have a positive experience as have always heard Gerard’s is great 👍🏼
Bite B — Google review
Amazing food. We had the set menu with paired wines, which is good value and always an opportunity to sample multiple dishes. Our favourites were the grilled octopus and the pork collar skewer. There was a bit of a mismatch with the timing of the wines and when the food arrived, but otherwise fantastic. Staff were helpful and friendly.
Kazs9922 — Google review
14/15 James St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australiahttp://www.gerards.com.au/+61 7 3852 3822Tips and more reviews for Gerard’s Bistro
4.7
(192)
4.5
(24)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant
Joy Restaurant is a small, intimate dining spot located in Fortitude Valley. The restaurant offers a seasonal fixed-price menu with modern, Japanese-inspired small plates. With only 10 seats available, the owners and chefs Sarah Baldwin and Tim Scott provide an immersive dining experience with around seven to eight courses featuring subtle Japanese influences. Dishes like chawanmushi topped with crunchy toasted quinoa and diced yellowfin tuna with puffed rice crackers showcase the innovative culinary skills of the chefs.
All I can say is that my girlfriend and I absolutely loved this experience. It was so nice to see such a young g female create such a great degustation experience. From the moment that we walked in, we were greeted with a smile, and the show began. Sarah the owner was absolutely delightful, joyful, and you could see that she had absolute passion with the food that she was creating. I love the fact that we didn’t have to choose from a menu, it was chosen for us. Each dish was truly a master craft. The presentation was incredible, and we definitely thought that the food proportion sizes were great for the experience that we received. I absolutely love the fact that you could interact with the owner, and her amazing assistant. They explained each dish, and we actually did the alcoholic and non-alcoholic food pairing. Each item was described in detail, and had a story behind the dish that was presented. I can see why this restaurant is booked for months in advance, and if you’re a Brisbane local or someone visiting, I strongly recommend to go and support this great young girl, and her amazing small restaurant. I will definitely be going back here. The wine list was well thought of and I did think that pricing was relatively reasonable for alcohol. The food pricing reflects the effort that goes into the food. Put this on the restaurant must list for 2025. All I can say is well done to Sarah, I’m so proud of you. I am also a business owner and it’s great to see someone that has such passion for what they do.
Wesley V — Google review
That was one of the most amazing dining experiences we’ve ever had. We cannot fault a thing!! Every single dish was delicious and so beautiful!! Ambiance perfect and Sarah and Lauren were the loveliest hosts. My mum is in early stages of dementia, so sometimes is unsettled and not happy, but she had the best time which meant the world to me. Sarah, you are so talented yet humble. Thank you so much. I highly recommend to all. Thanks , Esther and Evelyn xxx
Esther M — Google review
Absolutely exquisite. Definitely worth the wait. Sarah is nothing short of a culinary artist-what she creates in the kitchen is pure magic. I’m completely captivated not only by the flavours but by the entire experience she’s so thoughtfully crafted. Every dish was a masterpiece, beautifully plated and paired to perfection, with each bite more indulgent than the last. As someone who adores the finer details - delicate cutlery, elegant glassware, the weight of a beautiful plate, and the perfect simple curve of a stemless wine glass - this dinner was a dream. The aesthetics were just as impeccable as the food and wine pairings, all enhancing the evening in the most sensual, luxurious way. And then there’s Loren - what an absolute gem. She does an exceptional job curating wines that harmonise flawlessly with Sarah’s culinary flair. We hadn’t originally opted for the wine pairing due to an early start the next day, and nearly missed out on what can only be described as a transcendent dessert wine experience. Loren, with perfect timing and intuition, gently insisted we try just one pour with the dessert course - and it elevated the dish to another level. Trust her. She knows exactly what she’s doing. We left completely satisfied, blissfully full, and already dreaming of our return if we can snag another table in 4 months. An unforgettable dining experience, and a must-do in Brisbane for any lover of fine food and wine. Worth every second of the wait.
Janita C — Google review
From beginning to end, this dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. It was far beyond a mere meal; it was a celebration of the culinary craft, with a level of service that made me feel as though I wasn't just dining, but rather fully immersing myself in the art of food preparation and service from start to finish. Every aspect of the experience, from the first greeting to the final course, exuded a deep passion and commitment to excellence that was evident in every detail. The two staff members, Maddy and Sarah, were the perfect pairing, working together seamlessly and with an impressive level of methodical precision. They exuded professionalism while remaining warm and approachable, creating an atmosphere where I felt completely at ease. Their coordination was impeccable, with each one anticipating the other’s movements, which made the service feel smooth and effortless. Their attentiveness to our needs, without being intrusive, made the entire experience feel personal and exceptional. My only minor complaint—though one that certainly isn’t a reflection on the restaurant itself—was the behavior of some of the other patrons during the meal. Unfortunately, the level of conversation at neighboring tables was so loud that it was easily audible from outside the restaurant, disrupting what would have otherwise been a perfectly serene and enjoyable atmosphere. In addition, some of these guests seemed to take an extraordinarily long time to finish their meals, which added to the overall sense of disruption. While I understand that this is outside the restaurant's control, it did somewhat detract from the otherwise flawless experience. However, despite these challenges, the overall experience was more than worth it. The anticipation leading up to securing a reservation each month is always a bit of a battle, but it is undoubtedly a battle worth fighting. Every moment spent at this restaurant, every ounce of time and every penny spent, is more than justified by the incredible quality of the experience. I eagerly look forward to the next opportunity to dine here again and would not hesitate to do so. Thank you for providing such a memorable and rewarding dining experience.
Otis N — Google review
Absolutely incredible. Sarah is a kitchen wizard and I’m so in awe of her talents and the experience she’s created. Every dish was delectable and perfectly presented. We were so so full by the end of it but we didn’t want it to end!! The most satisfying dinner everrrrr and I’m so glad we got a reservation. Worth the wait, highly recommend as a must do in Brisbane.
Zhanae W — Google review
This restaurant makes me feel stupid. I mostly dine in fine dining restaurants, and I have my own personal rating system. For the first time I rate a restaurant 0 out of 10. I do not feel satisfied at all. This restaurant is overrated, overpriced, with low food quality and* quantity. This restaurant teaches me what "overrated" means. Even the design of their dishes has problems. They don't balance the dish with taste or texture and all other details that a culinary chef should understand. And instead of putting gold on top of a dessert dish they served, I would rather they invest in how to improve their food quality. For the quantity, the whole meal feels like many tiny dishes, which combined would be around the portion of an appetizer in a normal restaurant. Given that I always have a smaller appetite than others, this restaurant did not even make me feel full at the end of the meal, so I can already feel that everyone in the restaurant were not full at all. I had to go buy a box of chicken after the meal. $16. Given that this meal costs me over $200 I could have bought 13 boxes of chicken and give it to homeless people. Stupidity, guilt and shame are what I feel after the meal, not joy, not a tiny bit of joy. Edit: I did have a list of dietary requirements but most of them were ignored by my decision, I had dairy, e.g. cheese on tart, and no rice wine was in the menu anyway, so most dishes I had are the same as everyone else, and my review is based only on the dishes that are same as everybody.
R C — Google review
I went here a few weeks ago and have been meaning to write this review ever since. To sum it up in one word: outstanding. The venue is so welcoming, calm and inviting. From the moment I stepped in the door, I knew this was special. The food was such an amazing experience, and the drinks pairing is definitely worth it! If you’re thinking about going, go. It’s worth the wait and I cannot wait to go back
Brett D — Google review
Every single time I go to Joy I go in with extremely high expectations and every time the team at Joy exceeds these expectations. The food is always delicious, creative, and fun. If you are a drinker or not the team at Joy have you covered with one of the most unique non alcoholic pairings there is. Having a restaurant like Joy in Brisbane run by someone like Sarah who brings nothing but happiness and Joy to those who are lucky enough to secure a reservation adds soo much to a food scene that is only getting better.
Shadi A — Google review
Shop 7/690 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australiahttps://www.joyrestaurant.com.au/+61 412 425 626Tips and more reviews for Joy Restaurant
4.6
(1164)
4.5
(47)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Restaurant
Agnes Restaurant, located in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, offers a unique dining experience centered around wood-fired cooking in an industrial-chic setting. The restaurant is known for its contemporary atmosphere and delicious dishes cooked over open fire. With an intimate terrace overlooking the CBD and Fortitude Valley, Agnes provides a cozy wine bar where guests can enjoy house-made limoncello and wood-fired bread.
Food was overall simple yet a good quality and you can tell everything was prepared with lots of effort and skills. - Oysters, butter were especially good - my boyfriend loved the ox tongue, wagyu shortloin and chocolate dessert Ambience was great and service was flawless. (At first it felt the restaurant was quite dark but later on you’d see it makes you focus on the things that matters, kitchen with all the chefs preparing food, a person in front of you and most importantly the food at the table) Bathroom was a cherry on top, very nice and clean. One of the few restaurants where uses aesop hand wash :) haha It ended up being quite pricy, perhaps it was better off ordering the set menu.
Yura C — Google review
A truly elevated dining experience. Hats off to the kitchen team. The Wagyu 6+ was cooked beautifully medium rare, full of flavour and perfectly rested. The duck was rich, tender, and balanced well with the acidity of the fruit. Each dish was thoughtful and visually stunning, a real credit to the chefs. That said, the service could have been more polished. The lady who introduced herself as the one looking after our table was difficult to reach. Despite seeing that we had been waiting for quite a while for dessert, she did not follow up or check in until we gently reminded. Overall, a memorable meal. Just a bit more attentiveness from the front of house would have made the experience flawless.
DO M — Google review
Loved the ambience and service. Great selection of wine as well. Sadly the cold smoked venison was a tad too salty and my quail was very overcooked and tough. The ox tongue was great, while snap peas weren’t outstanding in any way but a good accompaniment for the tongue. Really wanted to love the restaurant but it fell short of expectations!
Grace C — Google review
We went for dinner and the atmosphere was quite elegant and classy. However, the lighting inside was very dim — so if you’re planning to take photos, it can be a bit challenging. The overall vibe was nice and sophisticated, but the dining experience had a few drawbacks. The food took quite a long time to arrive. The steak, though, was excellent — perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Unfortunately, the rest of the dishes were just average, nothing particularly memorable. Prices are on the higher side, which would be fine if everything matched the same quality as the steak. What bothered us the most was the service. The staff kept insisting that we order more, repeatedly asking even after we had already ordered a lot. It felt quite pushy and a bit annoying, especially since we were already a group of six and spent around $800 in total. Overall, it’s a beautiful restaurant with great ambiance and good steak, but the slow service, dim lighting, and pushy upselling made the experience less enjoyable than expected.
Island G — Google review
Agnes is easily one of my favourite restaurants in Brisbane. I’ve been a few times now and it never disappoints. I personally love coming here for lunch; the atmosphere is a bit more relaxed and the space feels brighter during the day. The food is centred around seasonal produce and cooked over fire, which gives everything a beautiful flavour. Some people might see it as pricey, but I think it’s great value considering the quality of the ingredients, and how consistently good the food is. It’s always hard to choose a favourite dish because everything is so darn yummy, but some recent highlights for me have been the baked oysters, the peach-smoked tomato toast with anchovies, the scored red emperor, pipis with sweet corn velouté, house potatoes, and the John Dory with lemon butter and parsley. Every dish is balanced and scrumptious. The drinks list is also really good! Well chosen wines, interesting cocktails, and even good coffee to have with dessert later. Service is always spot on: the staff are attentive without being overbearing, and they know the menu which i appreciate. What I also love is that the food feels elevated without the pretentiousness; it's a place that takes food seriously but still feels warm and welcoming. If you haven’t been, definitely make a booking. It’s popular for a reason:)
Happy D — Google review
An exceptional venue with a warm, inviting, and elegant atmosphere — ideal for a romantic evening. The service is impeccable, delivered by a highly professional yet friendly team. The cuisine is of outstanding quality, showcasing remarkable attention to detail and flavor. It is also worth highlighting the terrace, an excellent setting to begin the night. Highly recommended, with pricing that reflects the quality of the overall experience.
Daniela M — Google review
To the team at Agnes, I just wanted to send a note to say thank you for the incredible dinner we had recently. We brought some international guests to your restaurant, hoping to show them a great time, and you completely blew us all away. The food and drinks were absolutely fantastic, but it was the service that truly made our night. Our server, (Alex I believe) was amazing—so attentive, friendly, and genuinely on top of everything. It's not often you experience that level of care. Our guests could not stop talking about how wonderful the service was. Thanks again for a memorable night.
Adam S — Google review
The restaurant has a dark, moody atmosphere that feels intimate and inviting, with most of the light coming from the fire on the open grill. We chose the set menu that was $100 per person and added a few additional dishes that we wanted to try. The food on the set menu was delicious but there were some hit and misses. The miss was the quail and whey sauce paired with the zucchini and peanut tarator. It didn't go well together and ended up being very oily and heavy. The hit was the smoked lamb neck which was beautiful, tender, and paired very well with the heros and pickled onion. Overall it was a pretty good meal and good for value considering the quality of the food. We ended up paying $148 per person and would happily recommend giving it a go!
Vanessa P — Google review
4.2
(1315)
4.0
(400)
Mentioned on 
very expensive
Italian restaurant
Restaurant
Located on the fourth floor of a high-rise building in Brisbane, OTTO Ristorante offers sweeping views of the river, Story Bridge, and Customs House. The restaurant's city-chic ambiance is complemented by Italian wines and an array of Spritz cocktails. Chef Will Cowper presents modern southern Italian-influenced dishes with careful sourcing and precise execution. The dining room features elegant Artemide Les Danseuses ceiling lamps, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere.
My husband and I went here for the first time for an early dinner before we went to see Teddy Swims in concert last Sunday. Food was delicious, service was excellent and the atmosphere was great. We were lucky to have some live music in the background, it really complemented the Sunday vibe. Would love to come by and try brunch here sometime soon.
Vee R — Google review
For a start, hot or even warm food would help! Both meals were cold on arrival at our table. The sides did not arrive before or even with the mains, in fact, I had to ask about the sides twice, by this time we had finished the cold mains, the sides did eventually arrive. The live music advertised from 2-6, didn't start until after 4, when we were paying the bill, overall, very disappointing for my birthday lunch. Great location and view was the upside, but won't be back.
Peter L — Google review
Delicious Food, Lovely Experience The food here was wonderful. Starters were outstanding, though the rock oyster could have been a touch juicier. If we had more room, we would happily have ordered another round of starters. The spaghettini was the highlight: creamy, flavourful, and bursting with the freshness of the seafood. It would have been a perfect five-star experience if the dishes had arrived a little faster and the waitstaff were easier to reach. Still, a memorable and very enjoyable meal.
WWG G — Google review
The atmosphere at Otto is wonderful, with a beautiful and inviting setting & views. During our weekday lunch visit, however, the restaurant was almost empty, which lessened the overall charm. We enjoyed both our starter and main course, though the portions were on the smaller side and the food, while good, didn’t quite reach the level we had expected from the recommendations. Service was friendly and attentive, though at times a little inexperienced. Overall, a pleasant experience that might shine even more in the evening with a livelier atmosphere and perhaps a more distinctive menu.
Melina W — Google review
Great meal at Otto. Staff were very friendly and helpful and had great knowledge of the menu and complimenting beverages. The rigatoni was a little undercooked for my liking but nonetheless it was an amazing dinner service. Will be back next time I’m in Melbourne.
Phorty P — Google review
Amazing service and great food. Really nice atmosphere, nice and quiet and could easily talk. Great view overlooking the Brisbane river and the city in the distance.
Darren M — Google review
Arrived at Otto for a nice lunch for my partner's birthday. Failed to deliver... 1) Live music was noted on website from 2pm. We arrived for our reservation at 2.30pm... live music only started from 4pm, just as we were leaving. 2) we ordered pasta for our mains with side orders to have with our meals. The pasta arrived cold. The pasta tasted beautiful, but disappointing because it wasn't even warm. Our side orders arrived over 15minutes later. What we expected was a more thoughtful service.
Annamae D — Google review
Had my birthday lunch here, could not fault the experience and kind gesture of a birthday brownie. We three had a lovely time. Humorous episode shared by all when my chair mysteriously separated legs from seat; we all remarked how fortunate I, the balanced one, had the episode rather than unbalanced others in the troupe. Started with oysters and son also was tempted by the yellowfin, then mains I had the eye special, wife the lamb and son the king prawn pasta which won our taste test by a nose. Thanks guys, we had a great time.
B P — Google review
4.4
(1700)
4.0
(320)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
Chinese restaurant
Donna Chang is a sophisticated Chinese restaurant located in the inner city, offering a diverse menu of Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. The eatery boasts an elegant ambiance with marble tables and exquisite chandeliers, providing a classy dining experience.
Browsing google map to find some chinese food and found them with lots of 5 star review. Walked a little to find it as it does not have a sign anywhere in sight. walked into the hotel and was shown the way to tyhe restaurant. We come on a tuesday 1pm and was surprise to see the restaurant is empty. Glad that we have go ahead and try the food here. The Duck is very very good. smoked crispy skin and soft on the inside. Dim Sum taste are spot on. And the fried rice is really good. Very reasonable price.
Alex S — Google review
We came here this evening to celebrate my husband’s birthday, and it was such a wonderful experience. The food was absolutely amazing — full of flavor. The staff were warm and attentive, especially Melissa, who took great care of us throughout our visit. She made the night even more special with her outstanding service. We’ll definitely be coming back.
Angelica D — Google review
We enjoyed the mouthwatering beef, soft shell crab, Moreton Bay bug dumplings, and the swordfish — all of which were absolutely amazing. For dessert, we had the fried ice cream, and to our surprise, the team treated us to a delicious chocolate cigar to celebrate my husband’s birthday. Such a thoughtful touch to end a perfect meal. The only down side was the service was a little slow.
Assunta T — Google review
The restaurant is elegant, quiet (on Tuesday lunch) and a bit dim with the lighting. Staff is friendly and welcoming, stayed attentive of us throughout the dining. We had - Peach Oolong (Fragrant but stale) - Mung bean jelly noodle (It was good and refreshing, especially with the warm weather now) - Crispy pork belly (Very crispy and the fat was distributed beautifully, the pickled veggie went really well with the pork) - Xiao Long Bao (so-so, disappointed that it did not served with vinegar & ginger) - Dim Sum Set (Not recommended; the chef did not inform us that Xiao Long Bao is included as well, the Siu Mai & Hargow included are very dry that Coles microwavable ones are better) Overall it’s a nice dining spot as the historical building, but considering the price, you will find better spots for Chinese cuisine/Dim Sum in Brisbane :)
Boon M — Google review
My husband love this restaurant so he booked the table there for our anniversary. - steak tartare was amazing - chicken was nice - fish was okay but it could be better - the dimsum was horrible - the dumpling was better than dimsum but still not good Spend total over $200 and I was so upset on how everything came out. Waiting so long for the dumpling & dimsum to come after the entree. So long until we don’t want to keep going anymore and ask the waiter to pack it to takeaway for us instead. Definitely not gonna go back again. 😔😔😔
Debbie — Google review
The experience and service we received from Donna Chang and her staff was exceptional to say the least. From the initial response to our company’s dinner enquiry to leaving the restaurant on the night, we felt welcomed and that we were indeed receiving 5 star treatment. From the back office booking staff, specifically Meredith and our main server for the night Hugo, we felt that the process went smoothly, and every request catered to. The room décor provided our team with a cozy, relaxed, yet exquisite atmosphere to enjoy the banquet which was served throughout the night in a timely manner. The food itself was excellent with a fusion of various Asian and European flavors and our vegetarian guests were pleasantly surprised with high quality options they were provided. Hugo was excellent in his attentiveness and politeness and was able to cater to the various cocktail requests our team had. The wine was exquisite also with a few guests selecting several reds to accompany their dishes. I highly recommend Donna Chang’s restaurant as a ‘go to’ if you’re seeking Asian fine dining in Brisbane’s CBD along with a charming atmosphere to enjoy with friends and family.
Alfred S — Google review
Went here for Fathers Day and my Birthday. A great evening. Food is brilliant, wine can be a bit expensive. Service is good. Good for special occasions.
Bryan B — Google review
Great place for modern Asian cuisine. Exceptional service and food is next level. Expensive, but worth it.
Jamen W — Google review
Suite 3/171 George St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australiahttp://donnachang.com.au/+61 7 3243 4888Tips and more reviews for Donna Chang

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