City Guide

The Best of Brisbane: Where to Eat, Drink, and Explore

There has never been a more exciting time to visit Brisbane, a city currently basking in a golden era of sophisticated cultural growth, sun-drenched architecture, and an effortlessly cool lifestyle. In this curated guide, we have captured the ultimate "Best of Brisbane," balancing the city's signature culinary and artistic heavyweights with its premier wellness sanctuaries. Whether you are indulging in wood-fired dining at Agnes, exploring world-class exhibitions at QAGOMA, or unwinding poolside at The Calile Hotel and Soak Bathhouse, you will discover a destination that masterfully pairs vibrant energy with restorative luxury. Consider this your trusted insider's handbook to navigating the river city’s most defining moments.

The Best of Brisbane: Where to Eat, Drink, and Explore
10 places · Signature, Wellness
Signature

Agnes

#1

Secure an early booking at this spectacular, wood-fired restaurant set in a heritage brick warehouse where electricity is shunned in favour of open flames. The tasting menu is a masterclass in smoke and timber, providing the ultimate grown-up culinary reward after a busy day on the run.

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Signature

Brisbane Powerhouse

#2

Head to this iconic repurposed industrial power station by the river for Emma Memma's Jungle Picnic Tour. It is a joyful, high-energy performance that keeps the little ones completely enchanted, set against a backdrop of raw brick and soaring steel beams.

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Signature

Hellenika at The Calile

#3

Return to the hotel for a poolside lunch that feels like a quick trip to the Greek islands. Order the Saganaki and the slow-cooked lamb to share; the atmosphere is lively enough that you won't need to worry about the kids being on their absolute best behaviour.

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Signature

Institute of Modern Art

#4

Stroll down to the Judith Wright Arts Centre to explore the Institute of Modern Art. It is a brilliant, compact space showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art that is as visually stimulating for adults as it is intriguing for curious younger minds.

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Wellness

KAILO Wellness Medispa

#5

Head across the river to James Street and check into this stunning wellness space located inside the iconic Calile Hotel. Book a custom massage or skin treatment in an environment that feels like a masterclass in pastel-hued, mid-century-inspired relaxation.

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Wellness

Lobby Bar

#6

Finish your afternoon downstairs under the travertine arches of the Lobby Bar. Order a cold-pressed green juice or, if you are leaning into a more relaxed definition of wellness, a crisp glass of local natural wine to celebrate your newly restored self.

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Wellness

Morning After

#7

Walk down the street to this light-filled, concrete-and-greenery-filled corner café. It is the perfect spot for a nourishing breakfast that doesn't feel like a compromise; order the local mushrooms on toast and a flawless flat white.

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Wellness

Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

#8

Take a gentle stroll down to South Bank to clear your head in GOMA's soaring, air-conditioned galleries. The minimalist architecture alone is a balm, but the world-class contemporary Asian and Pacific art collections offer a quiet space for genuine reflection.

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Wellness

Soak Bathhouse West End

#9

Start your morning at this rooftop bathhouse, where the vibe is communal and entirely unpretentious. Alternate between the warm mineral pools, the icy plunge pool, and the steam room to kickstart your circulation under the open Brisbane sky.

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Signature

The Calile Hotel

#10

Begin your day by checking into Australia's premier design hotel, a pastel-hued concrete masterpiece that feels more like Palm Springs than Queensland. Fuel up with a flawless flat white and avocado toast at the Lobby Bar while the kids soak in the breezy, open-air architecture.

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