While the rest of the country doesn’t get started until Melbourne Cup day, we’re lucky to live in a city where everyone already has one foot in holiday mode long before November. Brisbane’s silly season starts with Riverfire, the explosive end to the Brisbane Festival with a fireworks display that puts New Year’s Eve to shame.
Riverfire 2014 falls on the 27th of September – that’s this weekend. We’re still trying to decide on the perfect place for our wining, dining and viewing needs, and figure a few others may be in the same boat. They say “a problem shared is a problem halved,” so we’ve compiled a list of our top picks to make things easier for all.
Dandy’s Rooftop| South Brisbane
The Fox Hotel’s rooftop bar is the perfect vantage point for those who love to be around the energy of the South Bank crowds, but not being stifled in the middle of it. Whisk yourself above it all, add city skyline views and a 4 hour food and beverage package for just $89 a head and enjoy your night.
Cove| River Quay
With their New Year’s Eve events selling out several years running, a place at Cove is priceless real estate whenever there are fireworks in question. With panoramic views of the skyline and a special 3-course dinner for just $99 per person, tables are filling fast.
Cha Cha Char| Riverside
The flames are roaring at Cha Cha Char on even the quietest of nights, but the riverside restaurant comes alive at Riverfire. Book a table fast, or for a night to truly remember, book the venue’s exclusive private dining room and it’s enviable river views.
Jellyfish| Riverside
We’re yet to actually take a tape measure and work out the exact distance from Jellyfish to the water’s edge, but we know the answer is pretty darn close. About as close a seat as you can get to the Story Bridge and with the nation’s best seafood, it’s definitely one of our top picks for Riverfire 2014.
Willow and Spoon | Wilston
It’s a fact that some people just don’t like crowds, flashing lights and loud noises. We don’t necessarily understand this, but neither do we discriminate – those people definitely need the extra help on Riverfire night. To escape the buzz, get out of the city and head to Wilston’s favourite local for some quiet time and their delicious new Spring dinner menu.
Prefer to claim some grassy territory and spread a blanket under the stars? Our favourites for nearby, pre-Riverfire dining are Next Door Kitchen and Bar, Ole and South Side Diner. Forgo the ice cream van and swing by Chocolate Pavillion or Cowch for dessert on the way home.