Brisbane’s hospitality scene is booming right now. Not much time passes in the River City without a hot new restaurant, bar or cafe opening up – and it can feel overwhelming knowing which one to try next. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best new and upcoming restaurants in and near Brisbane, if you need some inspo for your next dining date.
Aunty
Opening on February 5, this Michael Tassis spot will be serving up refined Asian cuisine, featuring the freshest seafood and the most decadent proteins. The elegant, trendy space will truly feel like your coolest, edgiest Aunty’s chic apartment.
+81 Sushi Kappo
Also on February 5, Brisbane will welcome a new benchmark in Japanese dining with the opening of +81 Sushi Kappo! Named after Japan’s international dialling code, the outstanding omakase and sushi dishes will further the restaurant’s mission to create a bridge between cultures.
Venner
Coming at the end of February, this cosy spot will offer both à la carte dining and brunch options, inspired by Scandinavian dining — think seasonal seafood and a strong focus on quality ingredients. Plus, a minimalist cocktail menu that you won’t want to miss!
Comuna Cantina
Comuna Cantina known for its bright interiors, Insta-worthy cocktails and some of the best tacos in Brisbane, is set to open a new spot in Newstead this March. In terms of the tacos, you can expect to find filling such as fish, halloumi, grilled chicken, crumbed cauliflower, pulled pork, and spicy beef.
La Bodega
Speaking of tacos, renowned La Bodega — awarded QLD’s Best Mexican Restaurant 2025 by the Restaurant & Catering Industry Association of Australia — is bringing their mouth-watering birria tacos to another location soon! This taqueria offers other Mexican staples like enchiladas and elote, alongside more experimental dishes like a chilli choc brownie that’ll satisfy any sweet tooth.
Alfi
In mid-2026, Ghanem Group will be launching a sophisticated, family-friendly, large-format restaurant and bar — Alfi Eatery & Bar. With an Italian-centred menu that is bound to wow us all, and a location that screams Mediterranean, it can’t come soon enough!
Norman Northside
Also halfway through this year, the self-styled “Brisbane’s worst vegetarian restaurant” is bringing everything you may love about the Woollangabba original: namely, premium steaks and in-house butchers!
