The Best Al Fresco Dining In Brisbane

As Brisbane’s restaurant and cafe scene ascends to new culinary heights, it is only fitting that the restaurant spaces themselves are demonstrating their full potential. As it enters the summer months and the urge to take your cocktail out onto the terraces, the rooftop or the streets becomes overwhelming, follow our guide to the best al fresco dining and drinking experiences in Brisbane.

1. Bar Alto

Restaurant, Bar, Diner, Italian

Located at the Brisbane Powerhouse, where one of the city’s best markets also takes place, Bar Alto is Italian in flavor yet authentically Brisbane in atmosphere. Dinners are meant to be eaten at a leisurely pace on the upper deck that looks out over the river: savor the house specialty of goat ragu on pappardelle and bask in the setting sun.

2. Gunshop Cafe

Cafe, Australian, Vegetarian, Vegan

In this vibrant West End spot, you’ll have to beat back the crowds to gain entry to the inner sanctum of Gunshop’s spruced-up garden courtyard with brick-wall exteriors and even rooftop beehives. Patrons can seek shade whilst enjoying chef Jason Coolen’s locally-sourced market-driven menus.

3. Next Door Kitchen & Bar

Bar, Wine Bar, Wine

Defying the stereotype of a grungy basement bar, Next Door Kitchen & Bar subverts the 1920s speakeasy style and brings their whole set-up onto the open street. The opportunity is ripe for people-watching on Little Stanley Street whilst you kick back with a vermouth cocktail and enjoy the tapas menu, inspired by creative modern European cuisine.