While the rest of the country doesn’t kick off the silly season until Melbourne Cup, we’re lucky enough to live in a city that starts popping the champagne long before then. This year, our festivities start on September 26, with Brisbane’s night of nights and spectacular end to Brisbane Festival: Riverfire.
If planning where to spend Riverfire, Melbourne Cup, Christmas AND New Year’s Eve is all too much for you, we’ve at least got your Riverfire sorted, with a list of the best spots to wine and dine at while you get your iPhone camera ready to catch all the fireworks action.
Dandy’s Rooftop | South Brisbane
From your sky high spot on Dandy’s Rooftop you’ll have a prime view of all the night’s action. Plus, there’s plenty more drinks at the bar than you’ll ever find on a blanket by the river! Instead of battling prams and backpacks in South Bank, watch the fireworks light up the sky through a glass of sparkling and enjoy 4 hours of summer BBQ eats, beverages and good tunes for $89pp.
South Bank Surf Club | South Bank
South Bank Surf Club’s deck is the perfect vantage point for those who love to be around the energy of the South Bank crowds, but not be stifled in the middle of it. Perch yourself on a bar stool and get ready for when the BBQ fires up, with black pepper prawns, grass fed sizzle steaks and plenty more being grilled to juicy perfection. Paired with a few brews of course, all for $90pp.
Live Fire | South Bank
The flames are roaring at Live Fire on even the quietest of nights, but the South Bank restaurant comes alive at Riverfire. Book a table feast of shared starters, an entrée and a main with a beverage for $60pp or just head in for a brew in Beer Garden, with a $10 cover charge that includes one beer or wine.
Spaghetti House | South Bank
If you just want a classy spot to tuck into a big bowl of spaghetti marinara with your flame before you attempt to squeeze yourself into the crowds for a good viewpoint, Spaghetti House is taking bookings for dinner. Get in an early feed before you stake out your blanket spot and feast on pasta and a pinot or pizza and a peroni for $30pp.
Next Door Kitchen and Bar | South Bank
For some hooch and a good feed to get you nice and zozzled before the show, high tail it into Next Door Kitchen and Bar, where they’ll be happy to put a big plate of gangster wings and a cocktail jug in front of you. Best book a table for the night though, because they’re sure to be booked out in a jiffy.
South Side Diner | South Bank
We don’t know about you, but we think a pile of cheesy fries, a big slice of cherry pie and a boozy milkshake are just the thing to kick off Riverfire. Book a booth for before or after the action (or both!) and get your night off to a swinging start. They’ll even be cranking up the juke box with some lively tunes to put you in the mood.
Popolo | South Bank
Celebrating their prime position on the Brisbane River, Popolo are saying ‘salute!’ to Riverfire with a night of delicious food and drinks. Book their $145 package and you’ll spend the evening feasting on bite sized gourmet pizzas, bruschetta, pork belly morsels and truffle ricotta gnocchi. With a four hour drinks package included as well, you’ll be buzzing with anticipation by the time the sky finally lights up.
Wherever you find yourself, just be sure to swing by Cowch for dessert on the way home.