It’s an easy choice to let your feet do the walking and see what you can discover in Brisbane’s CBD and the riverside stretch of South Brisbane and South Bank. Between the warren-like dining and arts destinations of Fish Lane and some special spots that border on speakeasy levels of hiddenness, this is a corner of the city that rewards curiosity and exploration.

EAT

Lune South Brisbane
One of two Brisbane outposts for Melbourne’s ultra-popular croissanterie, this one is perched conveniently at the end of Fish Lane. Beyond the classic croissants – which take three days to prepare – and other French pastries, look out for a head-turning array of creative monthly specials that have previously included a pretzel-inspired pain au chocolat filled with peanut butter almond frangipane and a savoury herb and cream cheese croissant. That means you just might find something new every time. No wonder it has already spawned a cookbook and locations in multiple capital cities.

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15 Manning St, South Brisbane

DO

Curiocity
An inclusive extension of World Science Festival Brisbane, this annual celebration of science, tech and art (and their many intersections) returns to the CBD from 22 March to 2 April with a diverse slate of free workshops and conversations spanning nature, AI, Indigenous culture and more. You can also take a guided walking tour of Curiocity’s distinctive outdoor artworks and installations with curator Jay Younger, threading through South Brisbane and South Bank parallel to the river. There’s something here for all ages, including contributions from select Brisbane schools.

Assorted locations

EAT

Southside
One of Fish Lane’s most sought-out destinations, Southside showcases modern pan-Asian cuisine in an elegant space designed by Richards & Spence. There are two set menus, or you can order individually from the raw bar, dim sum menu and other sections. While some of the dishes may seem familiar – like a steamed pork bun or fried rice – they’re elevated in a way that makes them utterly unique. There are date-friendly share plates available too. Southside also hosts special events and collabs with other restaurants, including a three-course menu overseen by head chef and co-owner Ross Magnaye from Melbourne’s Serai on 22 Feb and the popular wine tasting event Fresco: French Touch on 5 March.

63 Melbourne St, South Brisbane

DRINK

Before & After
Aperitifs and digestifs are the focus at this savvy basement hideaway, where owner George Curtis pours dozens of different amari liqueur to bookend your dinner. Before and After cultivates drops not just from Italy but also from far-flung corners of Australia like Tasmania and Beechworth. That sheer geographical range will lend your considered sipping the feeling of an especially classy travelogue. The cocktails are just as thoughtful as the moody, low-lit interior and vintage furniture, and wine and craft beer flows alongside a snack menu curated by Alba Bar & Deli. And for those who appreciate a challenge, finding this spot is half of the fun.

Laneway Basement, 181 George Street, Brisbane

STAY

W Brisbane
Awaiting right across the river from the cultural precinct, this five-star hotel flaunts a singular interior design both in the public spaces and the rooms themselves. Beyond the usual amenities, there’s even a rooftop lounge with a pool, a cocktail bar and jaw-dropping views around the city. Local artists are regularly featured in the hotel, and the interior design was created to echo the flow of the adjacent Brisbane River. That all adds up to a unique accommodation experience that celebrates artistic expression. And you won’t have far to go for your next meal, with the in-house restaurant Three Blue Ducks serving up modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

81 N Quay, Brisbane

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Tourism & Events Queensland.