Brisbane Festival is back, and it’s time to plan the perfect night out! We’ve rounded up the best pre-show dining spots in South Bank, so grab your partner (or bestie) and kick off your evening with these delicious eats before heading to your BrisFest show.
Poca Madre South Bank’s new Mexican hotspot, Poca Madre, is here to impress. This pink desert-inspired oasis serves up standout dishes like the birria quesataco—slow-roasted brisket melting into soft corn tortillas—and the pollo y maíz, roasted chicken breast in a fruity pasilla chili marinade. Don’t skip the grilled wild mushroom taco either! Oh, and their agave spirit selection, sourced from nine of Mexico’s top distilleries, is perfect for a pre-show sip.
River Quay Fish If seafood is your vibe, River Quay Fish should be at the top of your list. They’re known for their towering seafood platters, featuring fresh oysters, king prawns, salt and pepper calamari, grilled fish, and broccolini. Sit back with a cocktail and enjoy the serene views of the Brisbane River before your night of festival fun.
Baba Ganouj For a Middle Eastern feast, Baba Ganouj has you covered with their shared banquets. These feasts let you sample the best of their menu in a traditional way—perfect for a pre-show dinner with friends. Plus, their new spring cocktail list, crafted in collaboration with mixology legend Carlos Hurworth, brings bold, exotic flavours to the table. We’re still dreaming about how good these drinks are!
Smokehouse If flame-grilled meat is your thing, Smokehouse promises an epic South African-inspired braii (aka BBQ) experience. Their secret-basted ribs are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavour. Plus, on Wednesdays, you can score ribs for half price if you’re heading to a show. It’s a no-brainer!
Popolo Popolo’s riverside setting makes it the perfect spot to indulge in classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. From traditional favourites to lesser-known provincial dishes, their menu pairs beautifully with the stunning view of the Brisbane River. It’s the ultimate luxury pre-show experience, and just a short stroll from all the BrisFest action.
Tai Tai Located right across from QPAC and close to the South Bank Piazza, Tai Tai is the ideal pre-show stop. Their Cantonese-style menu features everything from pork belly bao to sweet and sour barramundi, and don’t forget their signature deep-fried ice cream. It’s the perfect way to savour every bite before heading into your BrisFest show just a short walk away!
