Best Group Dining Restaurants in Brisbane: Why Shared Banquets Are the Way to Go
Brisbane is home to a thriving dining scene, and when it comes to group dining, the options are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, corporate dinner, hens party, or a catch-up with friends, finding the right venue is key. You want somewhere that can handle a group, offer delicious food, and keep the vibe warm, welcoming, and memorable. That’s where shared banquet dining comes in.
In this guide, we explore the best group dining restaurants in Brisbane and why choosing a shared banquet menu can turn your gathering into a true celebration.
Why Shared Banquet Dining Works for Groups
There’s a reason banquet-style dining has become so popular for group occasions — it’s all about connection. Instead of navigating individual menus and orders, everyone gets to relax and enjoy a carefully curated selection of dishes served to the table.
Here’s why banquets work so well:
- Less hassle: No need to split bills or make individual decisions.
- More variety: You get to try more dishes across the menu.
- More connection: Sharing food creates a sense of togetherness.
- Great value: Most banquets offer excellent portions and price points.
- Streamlined service: Kitchen and waitstaff can focus on delivering great food at the right pace.
From antipasti and wood-fired pizza to handmade pasta and slow-cooked mains, shared menus showcase a restaurant’s signature flavours in the best way possible.
Factory51 (Coorparoo)
When it comes to group restaurant dining in Brisbane, Factory51 Italian, in Coorparoo is a standout. This rustic-chic Italian restaurant offers group banquet options that include amazing antipasti, house-made sourdough pasta, soft fluffy gnocchi, wood-fired pizzas and seasonal salads. The industrial-laneway setting, complete with exposed brick and warm lighting, creates an inviting atmosphere for everything from corporate events to family birthdays.
Why it’s great for groups:
- Set group banquet menus from $46 per person
- Vegetarian and gluten-free options
- Flexible group sizes
Top banquet dishes: truffle and honey butter foccacia, porcini and truffle mushroom arancini, slow braised beef ragu gnocchi, Italian pork and fennel sauasage pizza.
Gerard’s Bistro (Fortitude Valley)
For something a little more refined with Middle Eastern flair, Gerard’s Bistro is an excellent choice. Their share-style menu is designed for communal feasting, offering unique flavours with a touch of luxury. The restaurant can cater for groups in both the main dining area and semi-private spaces.
Why we love it: Their banquet-style menus take the guesswork out of ordering and deliver a perfectly paced experience.
Greca (Howard Smith Wharves)
A Greek taverna-style restaurant by the Brisbane River, Greca is perfect for group gatherings. Their shared banquet menu includes dips, grilled meats, fresh seafood, and classic Greek sides.
Perfect for: Birthdays, casual celebrations, and large family dinners.
Menu favourites: Saganaki cheese, lamb shoulder, and calamari.
Beccofino (Teneriffe)
Beccofino is a long-time favourite in Brisbane, known for its wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas. While it doesn’t offer traditional banquet menus, it’s a solid choice for smaller groups who enjoy sharing a few plates and pizzas over wine.
Ideal for: Casual group catch-ups, work dinners, and family gatherings.
Donna Chang (Brisbane CBD)
If you’re after a more upscale group dining experience, Donna Chang serves modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning heritage building. Their group banquet options include dumplings, roast meats, and classic dishes with a modern twist.
Why choose Donna Chang:
- Elegant interiors perfect for special occasions
- Several private and semi-private rooms
- Banquet menus starting from $65 per person
E’cco Bistro (Newstead)
Modern Australian cuisine meets fine dining at E’cco Bistro. Known for its impeccable service and creative dishes, E’cco is great for group dining with curated set menus that highlight seasonal produce.
Great for: Business dinners, food lovers, and intimate celebrations.
El Camino Cantina (South Bank & Bowen Hills)
For groups looking for something fun and lively, El Camino Cantina is the go-to. With Tex-Mex feasts, margarita towers, and bold flavours, it’s the ultimate spot for birthdays, work celebrations, or hens nights.
What to expect: Colourful décor, loud music, group platters, and big energy.
sAme sAme (Fortitude Valley)
For modern Thai shared dining, sAme sAme delivers vibrant dishes with punchy flavours. Their banquet menus change seasonally and offer a balanced mix of spicy, sweet, and savoury plates.
Highlights:
- Group menus from $79 per person
- Sleek, modern interiors with indoor/outdoor seating
- Inventive cocktails and wine pairings
Agnes (Fortitude Valley)
Known for its open-fire cooking and seasonal menu, Agnes is one of Brisbane’s most exciting group dining experiences. The menu is built around bold, smoky flavours and is best enjoyed when shared.
Perfect for: Foodie groups, celebrations, and those looking for a wow-factor venue.
Julius Pizzeria (South Brisbane)
This buzzing Fish Lane venue is always packed for a reason. While Julius doesn’t offer formal banquets, it’s fantastic for shared pizzas, pastas, and antipasti in a lively setting.
Why it works: Excellent service, consistent food, and a fun vibe.
Bar Alto (New Farm)
Located inside the Brisbane Powerhouse, Bar Alto is an Italian restaurant with river views and a reputation for quality food. They welcome group bookings and serve up generous plates perfect for sharing.
Must-try dishes: Risotto of the day, calamari fritti, house-made pastas.
Chu the Phat (South Brisbane)
Asian street eats with a modern twist. Chu the Phat offers multiple spaces for group bookings and delivers a flavour-packed menu ideal for sharing.
Banquet options: Korean fried chicken, steamed bao, crispy duck, and more.
Why Banquets Make Dining More Memorable
Whether it’s the first round of antipasti or the last spoonful of dessert, there’s something magical about passing plates and sharing a meal. It slows the evening down, encourages conversation, and creates memories that stick.
Restaurants that embrace shared dining often do so with pride. Their banquet menus aren’t just a practical option — they’re an expression of the chef’s passion and a way to offer guests a true culinary journey.
Banquet menus also offer great value. With curated selections and generous portions, everyone leaves satisfied. They reduce the decision-making stress and allow groups to focus on what matters most: connecting over great food.
So next time you’re booking for a group, skip the a la carte stress and go for a banquet. Your tastebuds (and your friends) will thank you.
Planning a group dinner in Brisbane? Book your table at Factory51 and enjoy rustic Italian hospitality, handmade pasta, and a space designed for connection.
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