6 of Brisbane’s best outdoor restaurants

By Jac Taylor

If ever a city was made for al fresco dining, it would be Brisbane. The subtropical climate, combined with a twisting river rife with waterfront real estate, means that everyday is a great day for outdoor dining.

Where: 71 Eagle St, Brisbane

Although Riverbar serves up three meals a day, it is a particularly good spot to enjoy a waterside breakfast, before or after a leisurely stroll around this scenic location alongside the city’s Riverside ferry terminal. The coffee comes from Sydney’s Single Origin Roasters, but the brunch cocktail jugs (available from 10am) are pure Brisbane.

South Bank Beer Garden

Where: 30ba Stanley St Plaza, South Brisbane

The beer garden, which brings the pub vibe into the sunshine, is an essential part of Australian gastronomic life. South Bank Beer Garden takes it up a notch, being the city’s only beachside beer garden. The location not only overlooks South Bank’s man-made Streets Beach, but provides 180-degree views of the river and the city from the venue’s decks. Beer and steak is the order of the day, but beer can translate to local craft beers, and steak ranges from local cuts to grain-fed Wagyu beef. 

Mr Percival's

Where: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

With an over-the-water location and beach club vibes, Mr Percival's serves up more than just delicious eats. Watch the sun sink over the Brisbane River with a drink in hand, indulge in freshly shucked oysters and let the good times roll. After, check out the other bars and restaurants located within the stunning Howard Smith Wharves.

Mary Mae's

Where: 119 Lamington St, New Farm

Resting on the waterfront of Brisbane's suburb of New Farm, Mary Mae's is the definition of casual elegance. The menu features classic dishes with Australian twists – like the medallion steak with vegemite butter – and dine-in is available from breakfast straight through to dinner. Don't miss the bar menu of signature cocktails and Brisbane-brewed beers. 

Patina at Customs House

Where: 399 Queen St, Brisbane

At the point where the city’s famous artery of Queen Street meets the even more famous river, you’ll find the elegant scrolled columns and copper dome of Customs House. Dating back to 1889, the heritage-listed interiors are nothing short of beautiful, but step outside to find the glamorous River Terrace. It's here that restaurant Patina serves up share plates with an emphasis on local produce. 

Madame Wu

Where: 71 Eagle St, Brisbane

At Asian eatery Madame Wu, two things are king: spice and flavour. Enter through a magnificent bamboo entrance and be greeted by elegant interiors, warm lantern lights and of course an iconic view of the Story Bridge lit up against the night sky. The fully covered al fresco deck means that you can enjoy the menu of fusion-style share plates alongside the winding Brisbane River.