Southern Suburbs’ Best Restaurants: Where to Eat in Brisbane’s Southside
Brisbane’s southern suburbs have come into their own as a foodie destination, offering an exciting mix of casual eateries, contemporary dining, and family-run gems. From long-time favourites to stylish newcomers, there’s no shortage of flavour-packed experiences just south of the river.
Whether you’re after a date night dinner, a family meal, or somewhere special to celebrate, this guide will take you through the best restaurants in Brisbane’s southern suburbs — starting with one of its most beloved: Factory51.
Factory51 (Coorparoo)
A true local favourite, Factory51 has cemented its place as one of Brisbane Southside’s best Italian restaurants. Housed in a converted warehouse, this rustic-chic venue combines industrial charm with a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s known for its house-made sourdough pasta, wood-fired pizza, seasonal antipasti, and locally sourced ingredients.
Perfect for everything from date nights to birthday dinners, Factory51 also boasts a stunning private event space, making it a go-to for weddings and group functions.
Menu highlights: Gnocchi with pancetta and truffle oil, wood-fired prosciutto pizza, Slow braised Brisket ragu with sourdough spaghetti, Coral trout and crab ravioli, truffle and porcini mushroom arancini with truffle aioli, calamari and zucchini fritte.
Why locals love it: Authentic Italian food, friendly service, a community feel, and outstanding value.
For those searching for the best Italian restaurant in Brisbane Southside, Factory51 consistently ranks high due to its consistent quality, vibrant atmosphere, and locally rooted philosophy. Its paddock-to-plate approach and handmade dishes place it ahead of other Italian restaurants in Brisbane’s southern suburbs.
Picnic Cafe (Camp Hill)
Bright, breezy, and always buzzing, Picnic Cafe is a favourite brunch spot that punches well above its weight. The all-day menu features creative takes on breakfast classics and vibrant lunch dishes.
Must try: Potato hash stack, breakfast gnocchi, lemon & ricotta hotcakes.
What makes it special: A leafy outdoor terrace, top-notch coffee, and locally sourced ingredients.
Pawpaw Cafe (Woolloongabba)
This colourful institution offers Asian-fusion brunch and dinner options in a lively, Instagram-worthy setting. It’s ideal for groups and caters well to gluten-free and plant-based diners.
Menu favourites: Thai-style fried chicken, laksa, miso pumpkin salad.
Bonus: It’s BYO and offers banquet menus for larger groups.
Cararra Italian (Mt Gravatt East)
Hidden away in the suburbs, Cararra Italian delivers elevated Italian fare with a strong focus on seasonal produce and wine pairings. The service is as polished as the plating.
Try: Osso bucco, duck ravioli, tiramisu.
Best for: Celebrations, date nights, and serious Italian food lovers.
Little G (Highgate Hill)
This cult-favourite pizza joint serves up some of the best Neapolitan-style pizzas in Brisbane. It’s unpretentious, with a tight menu that’s all about quality over quantity.
Top picks: Fennel sausage pizza, garlic bread with stracciatella, rotating dessert specials.
Why go: Simple, satisfying, and consistently excellent.
Sichuan Bang Bang (Moorooka)
This vibrant spot brings spicy, street-style Sichuan dishes to Brisbane’s southside. It’s fast, fun, and packed with flavour.
Don’t miss: Bang Bang chicken, cumin lamb, mapo tofu.
Great for: Casual dinners, group feasts, and spicy food fans.
California Native (Coorparoo)
A modern Mexican-meets-California eatery with fresh tacos, smoky meats, and craft cocktails. Expect bold flavours and a laid-back vibe.
Must-order: Baja fish tacos, beef brisket nachos, chilli margarita.
Vibe: Colourful, casual, and great for Friday night drinks.
Greek on Cav (Coorparoo)
A mainstay on Cavendish Road, this family-run restaurant serves authentic Greek cuisine in generous portions. Think slow-roasted lamb, saganaki, and fresh seafood.
Fan favourites: Lamb yiros, chargrilled octopus, moussaka.
Why it’s loved: Warm hospitality, hearty portions, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Billykart Kitchen (Annerley)
Helmed by celebrity chef Ben O’Donoghue, Billykart is a modern Australian restaurant with an ever-changing seasonal menu and a focus on local produce.
Signature dishes: Korean-style fried chicken, house-made pastas, market fish specials.
Pro tip: Book ahead for Sunday brunch.
The Jam Pantry (Greenslopes)
Famous for its “flipboard menu” that changes regularly, The Jam Pantry is a charming breakfast and lunch spot with inventive, homestyle cooking.
Expect: Seasonal surprises, house-made preserves, and hearty, wholesome plates.
Why we love it: It’s endlessly creative and always fresh.
Bar Spritz (Kangaroo Point)
With sweeping river views, Bar Spritz is a casual Italian bar and eatery that specialises in antipasti, pizza, and of course, spritzes. It’s a great spot for a laid-back afternoon or sunset dinner.
Go for: Burrata, calamari fritti, Aperol spritz flights.
Perfect for: Scenic catch-ups and riverside vibes.
Moose & Gibson (Woolloongabba)
A trendy cafe and bistro in the heart of Woolloongabba offering an all-day menu of modern Australian dishes, specialty coffee, and local beers on tap.
Hot picks: Chilli scrambled eggs, cheeseburger, crispy pork belly.
Best for: Casual brunch or laid-back weekend lunches.
Viet De Lites (Sunnybank)
Located in the foodie haven of Sunnybank, this Vietnamese restaurant offers fresh, flavourful dishes in a contemporary setting.
Try: Pho, lemongrass chicken vermicelli, crispy spring rolls.
Why it stands out: Clean, fresh flavours and speedy service.
Honourable Mentions:
- Flour & Chocolate (Morningside): Not a restaurant, but deserves a spot for its cult-status pastries and artisan breads.
- Just Earth (West End): A social enterprise cafe known for vegan eats and community spirit.
- Rasa Malaysian (Sunnybank): Hidden gem offering authentic Malaysian hawker-style food.
- Rabbit Hole Cafe (Seven Hills): Brunch favourites with a twist and a great outdoor area.
- Pineapple Express Cafe (Carindale): Healthy eats, acai bowls, and good coffee inside Westfield.
- Todd & Pup (Moorooka): A dog-friendly local that offers hearty breakfast and lunch options with great service.
Final Thoughts: Dining Southside Just Got Better
Brisbane’s southern suburbs are more than a collection of neighbourhoods — they’re home to some of the city’s most exciting and beloved dining spots. Whether you’re chasing authentic Italian, fragrant Asian street food, or creative Aussie fare, the southside delivers with variety and heart.
From casual cafes to must-book restaurants, there’s something for every palate and occasion. Southside Brisbane restaurants have come to represent the best of local dining: flavour, affordability, quality service, and a strong connection to the community.
Furthermore, this area’s diversity is reflected in the food — from authentic Vietnamese pho and Neapolitan pizza to elevated modern Australian cuisine and rustic Italian pastas. Southside food lovers are spoiled for choice when it comes to both variety and value.
Start with Factory51, explore the rest, and discover just how good dining south of the river can be. Brisbane foodies don’t need to travel far — some of the city’s best restaurants are right here in the southern suburbs.
🍽️ Book your table at Factory51 and experience Coorparoo’s favourite local restaurant.