Are you visiting the River City for a weekend? Or perhaps you're a local, keen to get a taste of what's on offer in your own backyard?
Brisbane's keen to welcome you with open arms, and we've experienced a Friday night in the city to give you a few ideas about where to start.
First things first, why not check in at the stunning Hilton Hotel? Located smack-bang in the middle of the CBD, with an exit leading directly into Queen Street Mall for all your shopping requirements, the Hilton features gorgeous executive rooms, guest rooms and suites for all types of stays. The check in level is beautiful, boasting a spacious, luxurious entry with a bar and restaurant (we'll get to that later), and an elevator facing out toward the atrium lobby designed by Harry Seidler, so even the journey to your room is something to marvel at.
The Hilton's atrium lobby
Once you've settled into the Hilton, make your way back to ground level and enjoy a stroll through the city toward Brisbane's newest overwater venue, Will & Flow, for a cocktail (or three!) and some nibbles to eat. Will & Flow is a nod to the nearby Goodwill Bridge, and the flow of the Brisbane river. It's the perfect riverside location to take in some beautiful surroundings after a big week, or enjoy the company of friends and loved ones.
State Of Origin Negroni, Brisbane Gin Fizz or the classic espresso martini – what's your poison?
A cheese board, an antipasto platter, or maybe some warm sourdough with olives and dips. . . Pick something light to sink your teeth into which you think will pair the best with your drink of choice.
Sourdough and dips from Will & Flow
Then, once you're sufficiently tantalised but you've still got room for dinner, it's time to make your way back into the concrete jungle for a taste of Japan at the Boom Boom Room, as you go from breathing in the open, riverside air to descending into the sleek, underground atmosphere of this warm and charming restaurant. The Boom Boom Room is inspired by the street food of Japan, while also being influenced by local Australian produce. This creates a fusion of both cuisines and results in a diverse, versatile menu for tastebuds of all walks of life.
You can try items on the menu individually if you know exactly what you're after, or get a little adventurous and go for one of the omakase banquets featuring edamame, miso soup, hand rolls, scallops from Noosa, pork belly yakitori, miso chocolate mousse and more. There are vegetarian options too!
The Boom Boom Room
The banquet option is a fantastic way to experience a multitude of tastes and textures if you're not sure where to start. Don't forget to give sake a try – it's a strong part of history in Japan, with more than 2,000 years of brewing. There's a bunch of styles, from dry and crisp to floral and aromatic, and they can all be served chilled, room temperature or warm.
There's no way you won't feel fully fed and slightly boozed after your night of food and fun in the city, so with that, it's time to head back down Elizabeth Street to the Hilton and settle in for the night.
Rise and shine! The Hilton's Vintaged Restaurant is waiting for you on level six with a buffet breakfast. Take your pick among the fruit, cereal, eggs, toast, yogurt, coffees and juices – the perfect way to kick off your Saturday after a gorgeous Fri-yay night in Brisbane city.
