Brisbane is the place to be, offering everything from world-class theatre and touring exhibitions to hidden rooftop gems like Sixteen Antlers, which overlooks the historic City Hall, home to the Museum of Brisbane (MOB). With the upcoming opening of the Queens Wharf precinct, there’s never been a better time to explore this vibrant city.
A Perfect Weekend in Brisbane
We recently booked a weekend stay in the city, starting with a wander around King George Square to take in the latest exhibitions at the Museum of Brisbane. Along the way, we stumbled upon a delightful (and free!) food festival at the nearby Roma Street Parklands: the annual ‘Providore in the Park.’
For accommodation, we chose the Pullman Hotel Brisbane, ideally located in the heart of the action. This 5-star luxury hotel offers affordable rates and overlooks City Hall, King George Square, and Roma Street Parklands. The hotel is also home to the popular Sixteen Antlers rooftop tapas bar and the Mediterranean-inspired Goldfinch Restaurant.
Dining Delights
As the sun set over the city, we indulged in a ‘Hot Choctail’ on the Sixteen Antlers rooftop before diving into a delicious winter menu at Goldfinch. The menu is filled with fresh dishes like Baby Squid, Brisket Ragout Pappardelle, and Crispy Skin Barramundi, paired with creamy garlic mash and seasonal greens.
The desserts were truly something to write home about, with options like Chocolate Fondant with Hazelnut Brittle, Apple Fritters with Cinnamon and Salted Caramel, and a warm Sticky Date Pudding with Whipped Butterscotch and Crème Fraiche. If you’re around on the weekend, don’t miss their decadent high tea.
Exploring the Nightlife
After dinner, we took a stroll toward the river and discovered the newly opened Bar Miette, offering sweeping views across the water and the illuminated Story Bridge. This terrace bar is part of the newly opened Supernormal, renowned chef Andrew McConnell’s first venture into Brisbane. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a Martini while watching the boats pass by.
Relax and Rejuvenate
As night fell, we returned to the Pullman Hotel for a restful sleep in our spacious suite, complete with a supersized bath and dreamy views of the city. Mornings in Brisbane are all about long walks around the botanical gardens, stopping off for good coffee and a hearty breakfast along the way.
Before checking out, we made a quick visit to the soon-to-be-opened Queens Wharf precinct. This exciting new development will feature a curated public art walk, gardens, and a striking bridge connecting the city back to Southbank. Keep an eye out for the latest hotel and restaurant openings as they unfold.
Visit During Brisbane Festival
If you’re planning a trip in September, you’ll be in time for the annual Brisbane Festival, running from August 30 to September 21. This explosion of international arts performances and interactive experiences takes over the city’s iconic landmarks, connecting people with place through a bold and diverse arts program.
Where to Stay
- Pullman Brisbane, King George Square
- https://www.booking.com/hotel/au/sebel-king-george-square.en.html?aid=7927129&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
Where to Eat