Jason Barratt’s guide to Brisbane: must-visit restaurants, hotels and shops

“A short two-minute walk from home, Baker D is a newly opened bakery in Brisbane. The pastry selection is incredible, my favourite being a Bomboloni on a Saturday afternoon,” says Barratt. This Italian bakery and café brings authentic, no-frills Southern Italian flair to Brisbane, prized for its wood-fired breads and seasonally adjusted menu. Its skilled craftsmanship sits comfortably amidst the city’s evolving café culture, offering seriously good eats without unnecessary fuss.

“This award-winning hotel is hard to overlook, even though we live in the same postcode!” he says. A Brisbane boutique hotel with a strong emphasis on stylish dining and social spaces, Calile hosts several culinary ventures, bringing a contemporary luxury feel aligned with the city’s upscale lifestyle destinations, ideal for those who appreciate design-conscious experiences.

A staple for fresh, local produce, the market is an essential pilgrimage for anyone seeking the best Brisbane-grown fruits, vegetables and artisanal products. More than a food stop, it encapsulates the community spirit that underpins Brisbane’s food scene. “We head to this market every other weekend, which is right next to New Farm Park. Some of the best produce in Brisbane come through here, but you must get in early,” says Barratt.

Co-founded by the team behind the acclaimed Agnes, Same Same serves top-tier Southeast Asian cuisine in a stylish setting that balances vibrant flavours with elegance. Its reputation for quality and authenticity makes it a standout in the dining circuit. “Grab a spot at the front window and order a bunch of snacks, it’s the perfect place for people watching, interesting cocktails and a fun atmosphere.”

The chef describes Mapleton Public House this way: “A Sunshine Coast Hinterland, 114-year-old country pub. Classic interiors, modern menu. Local craft beers alongside an Australian-led wine list.” The venue is known for its robust wine list and boutique beer selection, paired with a menu that highlights regional ingredients with straightforward confidence. Mapleton Public House offers a welcoming environment where the focus remains firmly on well-crafted food and drink.

Renowned for its laid-back coastal vibe, Noosa offers a distinctive contrast to Brisbane’s urban energy. This destination is synonymous with fresh, regional ingredients and relaxed dining experiences that celebrate Queensland’s produce. While not part of the city proper, Noosa’s influence resonates within Brisbane’s broader food and lifestyle scene, offering a touchstone for those seeking coastal sophistication combined with genuine authenticity.

A homegrown menswear label that has gained national and international respect for its sharply tailored, versatile pieces, P Johnson embodies the intersection of Brisbane’s emerging fashion identity and its broader cultural flair. “I can get great, understated contemporary staples and tailoring for a more formal look, too,” he says.

This café and roastery is revered for its ethically sourced coffee, pioneering the speciality coffee scene in Brisbane with a clear commitment to quality and sustainability. Single O offers a serious coffee experience without pretence, perfect for the discerning drinker. “It’s just around the corner from our home, serving up the best coffee in the city.”

Set within Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art, Goma restaurant pairs artfully conceived cuisine with a striking aesthetic environment. Executive chef Douglas Innes-Wills drives its inventive menu, making dining here a sensory experience tied closely with contemporary artistic expression. “I love taking my daughter to the Art Play Dates held especially for toddlers,” Barratt shares. 

Each of these establishments contributes a distinctive flavour to the vibrant tapestry of Brisbane, inviting visitors and locals alike to savour the genuine and nuanced qualities of one of the most compelling destinations on Australia’s eastern coast.

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