Every Must-Try Italian Restaurant In Brisbane

Treat your taste buds to the mouth-watering flavours of Italy by ticking off every exceptional Italian restaurant in Brisbane.

Big, robust tastes and sensationally dressed carbs – I’m not the only person susceptible to over-fuelling on Italian cuisine, right? Here in Brisbane, master culinary stars jazz up traditional techniques with quality ingredients and daring delivery, while still retaining the warmth of a traditional trattoria. My round-up of every slick Italian restaurant in Brisbane offers a one-way ticket to memory-making mangia. Sit back as I deliver the standouts.

The shortlist

Hottest new opening: Bar Monte
Best wine list: 1889 Enoteca
Best views: Persone
Most Instagrammable: Biànca
Best for seafood: Settimo
Fine dining gem: Como Restaurant
Best family-friendly spot: Beccofino

1. Bar Monte

the Italian restaurant interior of Bar Monte, Brisbane — The beloved Gold Coast bar has brought its renowned trattoria to Brisbane’s Newstead. (Image: Jessie Prince)

As a Gold Coaster, I’m so excited to see Bar Monte spreading its wings beyond its beloved Miami digs and into Brisbane’s Newstead. The neighbourhood trattoria is renowned down south for its low-key vibes set against truly delicious, bold dishes and while the newer northern outpost is certainly attracting crowds for its newness, the team have 100 per cent flowed their trademark flair into the Big Smoke. The pastas are legendary, particularly the Creste Alla Vodka with nduja stracciatella, but snacks spanning mortadella buns and anchovy toast are instant crowd-pleasers (and extremely Instagram-friendly) while the Veal Cotoletta in brown butter sauce is as good as it gets anywhere south of the equator.

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Trendy

Location: 17 Longland St, Newstead

2. Como Restaurant

holding a fork full of pasta at Como Restaurant, Brisbane — This buzzy Brisbane restaurant whips up authentic Italian pasta. (Image: Como Restaurant)

A Fish Lane superstar, Como Restaurant dazzles through a glamorous fit out, serious seafood indulgence and standout hospitality. While things get buzzy in there, especially on “Endless Spaghetti" Wednesday where you can snap up unlimited spaghetti, meatballs and sourdough slices for $40 a person, the Italian restaurant in Brisbane is renowned for its authentic yet totally refined Italian comfort food, with plates spanning a 9+ Wagyu Coulotte, huge bowls of tiramisu and traditional sugo of tomatoes, onion, olive oil and garlic which stands alone as a portal into traditional Italian kitchens.

Average price: $$$-$$$$

Atmosphere: Elevated

Location: 119 Melbourne St, South Brisbane

3. Julius

a whole pizza at Julius Pizzeria, Brisbane — Julius makes irresistibly good wood-fired pizzas.

Another Fish Lane standout, my favourite after-dark laneway, Julius sits right at the entrance on the corner. I spy merry diners swilling vino out the front (dialling up my FOMO) before I step into this Italian restaurant’s intoxicating buzz. Reminiscent of a Melbourne laneway star for more than just its setting, it’s a casual yet cool vibe complemented by high-quality cooking, great wine and attentive hospitality. Its pizza is famed locally so I take my time perusing the Rosse (red) and Bianche (white) menus, where beautifully blended sauces slathered across traditional crispy bases lead the way. I land on the Salame e Fontina, a perfect balance of heat thanks to the salami and chilli, and cream, thanks to that fontina milk cheese. Elsewhere, there’s a range of starters, just under half a dozen pastas (the flat-ribbon duck ragu will send you straight to Venice) and showstopping mains.

Average Price: $$ (but $$$ if you want more than pizzas)

Atmosphere: Trendy and moody

Review: 4/5

Location: 77 Grey St, South Brisbane

4. 1889 Enoteca

tiramisu at 1889 Enoteca, Brisbane — Treat your taste buds to a classic Italian tiramisu at 1889 Enoteca.

Walking through the doors of 1889 Enoteca , it’s like I’m wrapped in a big, cosy cuddle from a Nonna. Narrowing its Italian homage to Rome, the Brisbane institution brings seriously authentic Roman indulgence to the inner southern suburbs. While the food itself delivers knockout after knockout (the crab and chilli tagliatelle is a smash hit and I pine for it long after I leave), it’s the vibe and service that leave their mark. Mains include beautifully executed meats, perfectly puffed risotto and seafood delicately balanced with big flavours. And don’t miss the wine list – It’s massive and spilling over with hard-to-find Italian labels.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Warm and endearing

Location: 10-12 Logan Rd, Woolloongabba

5. Popolo

a long dining table at Popolo, Brisbane — The waterfront Italian restaurant offers a relaxed vibe for long lunches.

Been a while between frocked-up long lunches? Remedy that at Popolo , one of the most charming Italian restaurants in Brisbane. In the heart of South Bank overlooking the Brisbane River, the hot spot is instantly impressive, oozing waterfront tranquillity, yet the vibe remains unpretentious and relaxed. Pop your most glamorous sunnies over your eyes as you choose from a selection of pizzas, pasta (the truffle ravioli with ricotta and mascarpone cream is to-die-for), seafood, meaty mains and traditional starters. Sweet tooths will also appreciate the ample desserts on offer, spanning classics like tiramisu and panna cotta, as well as cakes.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Stylish

Location: R3 Sidon St, South Brisbane

6. Ciao Papi

a family dining at Ciao Papi against the Brisbane River backdrop — The family-friendly Ciao Papi restaurant showcases unbeatable views of the Brisbane River.

An Italian restaurant in Brisbane that endlessly dazzles, Ciao Papi is perched upon one of the city’s dreamiest waterfront corners and I feel as though I’m stepping onto a yacht when I enter. One of Howard Smith Wharves’ brightest stars, the dining destination juts out over the Brisbane River right near Story Bridge at the New Farm end of the entertainment precinct, providing a dramatically beautiful backdrop even if it’s gloomy out. Pick between crispy or pudgy-based pizzas generously topped with fresh ingredients, flavour-crammed pasta, even heartier mains and Instagram-friendly antipasti dishes as Aperol Spritzes roll out of the kitchen rapidly (when in Rome, or thereabouts), and animated revelry flows effortlessly.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Blissfully breezy

Location: 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

7. Biànca

pasta and small plates at Biànca Italian restaurant, Brisbane — The menu is overflowing with showstopping small plates and pasta dishes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

I reward a stroll in and out of James Street’s famed boutiques with a meal at Biànca . An exceptional Italian restaurant in Brisbane, from a fit-out perspective alone, the space dazzles (you’ll want to take every bit of tableware home with you) as a terracotta-flushed colour scheme throws subtle warmth. Brightened through a delicious open-air frontage (it was the drawcard for me, just too irresistible to skip past), the restaurant sings architecturally – and then there’s the food. I recommend one of the two set menus to take advantage of the headliners, which span elevated pastas like the tiger prawn tagliatelle with fresh vegetables, beautiful small plates and Moreton Bay bugs, among other delights.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Slick

Location: Shop AM5, Ada Lane, 46 James St, Fortitude Valley

8. Settimo

holding a fork full of pasta at Settimo Italian restaurant, Brisbane — Settle into Settimo for mouth-watering pasta. (Image: Brisbane Economic Development Agency)

The brainchild of Guy Grossi, one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs, Settimo is a vibrant tribute to the Amalfi Coast and its famed seafood hauls. I love it instantly as vivid pops of colour greet me the moment I step through The Westin Brisbane hotel and inside its dining space. The menu spans traditional heroes like delicately dressed raw fish and octopus, as well as whole fish and mussels. And I would never overlook the expertly considered Pasta al Limone – they absolutely nail the minimalist classic.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Fun-loving

Location: The Westin Brisbane, Level 1, 111 Mary St, Brisbane

9. Bar Alto

Italian fare at Bar Alto Italian restaurant, Brisbane — A menu of Italian classics, including antipasti, grilled seafood and meats, pasta and risotto at Bar Alto.

I stumble across Bar Alto on a day with the kids at the Brisbane Powerhouse, making a mental note to return children-free to make the most of the dramatic and light-flooded space. I return months later, and it proves just as impressive. The Italian restaurant in Brisbane is located right inside the museum and overlooks the Brisbane River, so it’s the perfect spot to reflect on a morning’s culture fix. A menu of Italian classics including antipasti, grilled seafood and meats, pasta and risotto and a few share dishes such as the outstanding slow-cooked lamb shoulder, ensures a memorable meal in one of the city’s most iconic locations.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Pure chic

Location: Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington St, New Farm

10. Persone

grating cheese on top of a dish at Persone Italian restaurant, Brisbane — This fine dining superstar celebrates Italian flavours.

Lock in your next special occasion (or business lunch if the boss is buying) at Persone , one of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane. Showcasing some of the greatest views in the city, the fine dining superstar celebrates the flavours and creativity of Italy in spectacular style. You’ll find elegant antipasti, three crowd-pleasing pizzas, homemade pasta and refined mains in addition to four set banquet menus that turn your experience into a special occasion.

Average Price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Euphoric

Location: Brisbane Quarter, Level 2, 300 George St, Brisbane City

11. OTTO

a spread of Italian dishes at OTTO Italian restaurant, Brisbane — Indulge in Italian classics with a twist at OTTO. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Once exclusive to Sydney’s glittering restaurant set, OTTO now sets the gold standard in Italian cuisine up north. OTTO is situated right off the Brisbane River and draws the same well-to-do crowds that turned Sydney’s outpost into an internationally acclaimed stalwart. Make it a lunch booking, as I do, to soak up shimmering views as a superb wine list accompanies authentic fare. Think fried zucchini flowers with ricotta and truffle honey, yellowfin tuna crudo with broad beans, and perfectly blushed duck breast with spring vegetables.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Smart and classy

Location: Sidon St, South Bank, South Brisbane

12. Pilloni

dining on Sardinian fare at Pilloni Italian restaurant, Brisbane — What used to be a secret local gem is now famed for its traditional Sardinian fare.

A neighbourhood gem, beautiful Pilloni is no longer a local’s secret. Located on a suburban street in the trendy West End and absolutely nails traditional Sardinian fare in a homely fit-out to mirror your ultimate Instagram dreams. It’s all-consumingly atmospheric, from the vintage oil paintings and traditional masks hanging on the walls, to the scent of homestyle cooking coming out of the kitchen. Outstanding service pairs harmoniously with mouth-watering dishes, including the sensational 24-hour cooked Tasmanian lamb shank with tamarind glaze and salsa verde, that celebrate the flavours of Italy with masterful flair.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Intimate

Location: 166 Hardgrave Rd, West End

13. Elementi

pizza at Elementi Italian restaurant, Brisbane — Love at first slice. (Image: Elementi)

Led by some of the city’s most accomplished culinary talents, Elementi is an Italian restaurant in Brisbane doing exceptional things in the kitchen. The team met while working at Beccofino (more on that shortly), leaping out on their own to offer their passionate spin on Italian cuisine. The result is excellent woodfired pizza, split into ‘Rosse’ and ‘Bianche’ – like every good pizza menu should – pasta, antipasti and mains that draw a loyal local following. Fuss-free to let the food speak for itself, it’s a relaxed spot to sit back and savour.

Average Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Light and bright

Location: 257 Given Tce, Paddington

14. Beccofino

dark and moody interior at Beccofino Italian restaurant, Brisbane — Beccofino is a long-time crowd pleaser.

Can’t shake the kids? Beccofino is just for you (and me, often). The family-friendly Italian restaurant is a long-time crowd pleaser, sorting out top-notch Italian cuisine for parents and their littlies. While a dedicated kids’ menu with four different pastas is a truly delightful treat (I literally squealed over the surprising detail), there’s also a beautiful menu of grown-up delights including a long list of pizzas, antipasti, pasta, mains and desserts. The dishes are generous, the staff are endearing, and the vibe is always buoyant.

Average Price: $$

Atmosphere: Homely

Location: 10 Vernon Tce, Corner Florence St, Teneriffe

Exploring the world’s largest sand island starts with the perfect K’gari homebase.

The morning light is still soft, but it’s already a perfect sunny day. We left our K’gari homebase at Kingfisher Bay Resort with our guide, Peter Meyer, at 9 am to make the most of our time to explore all that the world’s largest sand island holds. The size of K’gari is hard to grasp until you arrive here. This is no sandbar. Stretching 120 kilometres, unique lakes, mangrove systems, rainforest, 75 Miles of beach, historic shipwrecks, small townships and even one of Queensland’s best bakeries are all hidden within its bounds.

But first, one of the island’s most iconic sights: the pure silica sand and crystal clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

Laying eyes on it for the first time, I’m finally able to confirm that the photos don’t lie. The sand is pure white, without the merest hint of yellow. The water fades from a light halo of aqua around the edges to a deeper, royal blue, the deeper it gets (not that it’s particularly deep, six metres at most). The surface remains surprisingly undisturbed, like a mirror.

Arriving with our guide before 10 am means that no one else is around when we get here. Which means we have the pleasure of breaking the smooth surface with our own ripples as we enter. As a self-confessed wimp with chilly water temperatures, my fears are quickly assuaged. Even in the morning, the water stays around 23 degrees – perfect for lazing about all day. But we have more sights to see.

Exploring K’gari

ariel of in lake mckenzie on k'gari fraser island — Relax in the warm waters of Lake McKenzie. (Image: Ayeisha Sheldon)

This was the Personalised 4WD tour offered by Kingfisher Bay Resort, and my absolute top pick of experiences. Over the course of the day, we had the freedom to create our own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who had plenty of stories and local expertise to give context to what we were looking at. From the history of the SS Maheno shipwreck, which survived the First World War only to be washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, to a detailed description of how an island made of sand could sustain such diverse flora.

If it’s your first time to K’gari, the Beauty Spots Tour is another great option. Departing daily from Kingfisher Bay Resort (you’ll start to notice a trend, as many of the tours do start and end here), an air-conditioned, 4WD bus takes guests to the island’s most iconic locations, including the best places to swim, like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek. The latter offers a gentle current, perfect for riding with a blow-up tyre out towards the ocean.

The next day, for a look at a completely different side of K’gari, I joined one of Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Immersive Ranger-guided tours to kayak through the mangroves of Dundonga Creek. This long, snake-like stretch of creek winds its way inland from the ocean outlet we entered by, at times too narrow for three kayaks to be side-by-side. Small insects buzz from leaf to leaf, while birds call overhead. Occasional bubbles indicate we’ve passed some fish that call this place home.

kayak tour through the mangroves at k'gari island — Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: Reuben Nutt/ TEQ)

If kayaking isn’t for you – or if, like me, you simply want more – other ranger-led experiences include nature walks and a dedicated Junior Eco Ranger Program for kids ages five to 12 (these run every weekend, and daily over the peak December holidays). Just ask for a timetable of upcoming tours when you check in.

While during whale season, Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters operates tours from the hotel’s jetty to get up close to the famous Humpback Highway of Hervey Bay, from 7 November to 31 May, attention turns to the Aqua Oasis Cruise . Departing from the resort every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for resort guests, adventure along the island’s remote western coast, pointing out wildlife like dolphins, turtles, flying fish and eagles along the way.

The cruise drops anchor so guests can jump into the water using the boat’s equipment – from SUP boards to inflatable slides and jumping platforms. Then refuel with a provided lunch, of course.

Unwind at sunset

two people drinking cocktails at sunset bar, kingfisher bay resort — Unwind at the Sunset Bar. (Image: Sean Scott)

As much as days on K’gari can be filled with adventure, to me, the afternoons and evenings there are for unwinding. Sunsets on K’gari are absolutely unbelievable, with Kingfisher Bay on the west side being the best spot to catch the colours.

The Sunset Bar , located at the start of the resort’s jetty and overlooking the beach, is the ultimate location for sundowners. Let chill beats wash over you as you sip on cool wines, beers and cocktails in a relaxed, friendly vibe. Personally, a cheese board was also absolutely called for. As the sun sinks, the sand, sea and horizon turn a vibrant shade of orange, with the jetty casting a dramatic shadow across the water.

When the show is over, head back to the hotel for dinner at the Asian-fusion Dune restaurant, or the pub-style Sand + Wood. But if your appetite is still whetted for more lights and colours, the evening isn’t over yet.

Settle into the Illumina stage for Return to Sky, an immersive light and sound show leading viewers on a captivating journey through K’gari’s stories and landscapes.

Indulge and disconnect

woman setting up massage room at kingfisher bay resort Island Day Spa — Find bliss at Island Day Spa. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Of course, there is a type of traveller who knows that balance is important, day or night. While Kingfisher Bay Resort offers more than one pool for guests to spend all day lounging by (they’ll even serve you food and drinks while you do it), you’ll find me at the Island Day Spa.

The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and I felt the warm welcome as I walked into the light, breezy reception. Choose from a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques (obviously, I couldn’t go past a relaxing massage). All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. To really indulge, try out one of the packages, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

Getting there

kingfisher bay resort 4wd tour driving passed ss maheno on k'gari island — The world of K’gari awaits. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Getting to K’gari is shockingly easy. Find daily flights into Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Kingfisher Bay Resort offers a shuttle bus between the airport, their headquarters in Hervey Bay and the ferry to take you to K’gari.

Every top Italian restaurant in Brisbane for authentic flavours

Treat your taste buds to the mouth-watering flavours of Italy by ticking off every exceptional Italian restaurant in Brisbane.

The shortlist

1. Bar Monte

2. Como Restaurant

3. Julius

4. 1889 Enoteca

5. Popolo

6. Ciao Papi

7. Biànca

8. Settimo

9. Bar Alto

10. Persone

11. OTTO

12. Pilloni

13. Elementi

14. Beccofino

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