From the crispy pizzas to the silky homemade pastas, Brisbane’s Italian restaurants are giving us the comfort food we need. Whether you’re craving a spicy arrabbiata or a classic carbonara, these establishments will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Rome.
So, get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Brisbane’s Italian cuisine, where you’ll discover innovative dishes, warm hospitality, and a sprinkle of Mediterranean magic.
Olive & Angelo
At Olive & Angelo, prepare to experience a culinary journey that will have your taste buds doing the tango. The capricciosa pizza is a perfect equilibrium of crispy crust and scrumptious toppings that will make your mouth sing. And the prosciutto? Like a love letter from Italy. The mushroom risotto is a perennial favourite, a comforting dance of earthy shrooms and creamy rice.
đź“Ť12 Edward St, Brisbane CBD
Persone Italian Restaurant
Persone is a hidden treasure tucked away in Brisbane Quarter. Prepare to be delighted by a captivating menu that will take your taste buds on a joyride. Mouth-watering steak, heavenly prawn and fennel risotto — every dish is a flavour explosion.
The impeccable service adds an extra sprinkle of sophistication to your culinary adventure. And let’s not forget the convenience of nearby parking and an elevator straight to the restaurant.
đź“Ť81 N Quay, Brisbane CBD
POPOLO
Popolo is where Italian culinary dreams come true. Tucked away near South Bank’s waterfront, this hidden gem will take your taste buds dancing as you savour every bite of their velvety cappellacci, served with buffalo mozzarella, sage, and burnt butter. The breathtaking river views and handcrafted cocktails complete the picture-perfect dining date.
đź“Ť3 Sidon St, South Brisbane
Storia on Queen
Storia on Queen is not your average coffee spot – it’s also an Italian ristorante and bar. When it comes to food highlights, their carbonara is the star of the show, enticing you with its creamy, dreamy goodness.
So whether you’re dining in or taking your coffee to go, Storia on Queen is a daytime dining destination you simply can’t miss.
đź“Ť2/324 Queen St, Brisbane CBD
OTTO Ristorante
Located in the heart of Brisbane, this treasure trove of flavours will give you a much needed Italian fix. With breathtaking views and impeccable service, OTTO is a feast for the senses. Indulge in their delightful seafood dishes that celebrate the ocean’s bounty, like Western Australia scallops and lobster spaghetti.
Or for the non-seafood lovers, there are plenty of mouth-watering dishes to choose from, such as the honey truffle goat’s cheese and brisket gnocchi.
đź“ŤShop 1, River Quay, Sidon St, South Brisbane
Beccofino
The menu at Beccofino is a fusion of traditional and innovative Italian dishes, crafted with passion and bursting with authentic flavours. Each plate is a work of art, meticulously designed to leave you longing for more. The duck ragu is a must-try, and the pizzas are downright tantalizing.
Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, the cosy and inviting ambiance sets the stage for a memorable experience.
đź“ŤCorner of 10 Vernon Terrace & Florence St, Teneriffe
Toscano Bar & Kitchen
This splendid dining oasis in the city is the epitome of sophistication, whisking us away to an Italian trattoria. Each dish a delectable blend of fresh, local ingredients paying homage to the authentic Italian tradition. From mouth-watering pizzas to succulent pasta dishes, Toscano’s menu will have you spoiled for choice. Be sure to try mushroom and truffle arancini as well the Nonna’s recipe polpette meatballs and spicy pork nduja ravioli.
Oh, and don’t forget the expertly crafted cocktails — they’re like a burst of creativity in a glass.
đź“Ť2 Edward St, Brisbane CBD
Massimo Restaurant & Bar
Get a taste of the Amalfi Coast at Massimo Restaurant & Bar, nestled in the heart of Brisbane, Brisbane River views included. Tantalise your taste buds on a Italian coastal journey, from the whipped ricotta dip to the marinara and garlic sauteed mussels. And the grand finale? The mouthwatering limoncello semifredo, made with creamy limoncello yoghurt & almond crumb biscuit, italian meringue, and raspberry gel.
đź“Ť123 Eagle St, Brisbane CBD
Ciao Papi
Succulent beef carpaccio, comforting pasta dishes, and customisable pizza – these are a few of the things you’ll find at Ciao Papi. As you dine, take in the breathtaking vistas of the Brisbane River and the iconic Story Bridge. The service here is impeccable, and the warm hospitality will make you feel right at home. At Ciao Papi, every bite and sip is a sensory delight that’ll have you feeling less FOMO for not being able to take that European summer holiday.
đź“Ť5 Boundary St, Brisbane CBD
Como
This charming restaurant and pizzeria, tucked away in Fish Lane, serves up stunning wood-fired pizza and innovative dishes like beetroot tartare with macadamia and mustard and a decadent champagne lobster spaghetti that’ll have you feeling like royalty!
đź“Ť119 Melbourne St, South Brisbane
Ripiena
Renowned for their incredible, handmade pasta, Ripiena serves up dishes filled up with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. If you’re a stickler for tradition, their bolognaise recipe comes straight from the Italian Academy of Cuisine playbook or, you want to play to their strengths — ripiena translates as “filled” — their agnolotti filled with slow-cooked beef cheek will leave a contented smile on your face.
đź“Ť1/826 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley
Rosmarino
Refined venue Rosmarino’s menu is as elevated as its high ceilings, with an indulgent 24-hour slow-cooked lamb belly with radish, salsa verde and mustard greens and some of the best, creamiest burrata in town, not to mention an extensive, top-notch wine list!
đź“Ť6 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley