Brisbane’s best value eats
Fifty dollars doesn’t buy much these days, but it can still get you a delicious dinner for two if you know where to look. Here are the best local haunts and neighbourhood gems in Brisbane serving affordable eats.
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With the cost of living on the rise, $50 doesn’t buy much these days, but it can still get you a delicious dinner for two if you know where to look.
From pizza to tacos, burgers to dumplings and everything in between, Brisbane has a wide variety of cuisines that won’t hit you hard in the hip pocket.
Here are the best local haunts and neighbourhood gems in Brisbane serving affordable eats.
ANTICA
1/70 Kedron Brook Rd, Wilston | 3358 4150 | anticapizzeria.net.au
Antica started as Pizzantica in the back of a kombi, moved to Casa Italia at New Farm, then abbreviated its name and moved to more upmarket digs at Wilston. Now it’s a must-book hotspot. You’ll see happy families starting early for the wood-fired goodness. The house speciality is designed for a crowd – a long pizza split in half with tomato, burrata and balsamic pearls on one side and fig, honey and goat’s cheese on the other. Margherita is a given, while gamberi and prosciutto run hot. Unlike most traditional pizza spots, there are dedicated vegan pizzas, pasta, antipasti, gelato and ‘vegamisu’.
Cuisine: Pizza
BYO: No
Open: L Fri, D Wed-Sun
APANDIM UYGHUR CUISINE
46/342 McCullough St, Sunnybank | 3344 2291 | apandim-uyghur.com.au
Serving an authentic blend of Uyghur Chinese cuisine, traditionally from Northwest China, this pumping restaurant at Sunny Park shopping centre draws long queues on weekend evenings. The mission: a taste of Uyghur without leaving Brisbane. And it delivers, with every dish made fresh to order. Diners order on their phone from an impressive array of dishes, moving from chargrilled meat skewers to traditional Chinese noodle dishes (handmade, their signature), egg fried rice, lamb (Mongolian, of course), chicken (including crowd-pleasing kung pao), dumplings (also handmade) and soups. Portions are huge, flavour is full and service is fast-paced.
Cuisine: Uyghur Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
ARHIBU RESTAURANT
197-201 Beaudesert Rd, Moorooka | 3392 8325 | arhiburestaurant.com.au
Hidden down a set of stairs at the back of an arcade sits this colourful Ethiopian and Eritrean restaurant. Serving up traditional African eats, it’s a humble operation where food is the star. The budget-friendly menu runs from entrees like beef-filled sambusa pastries to main courses like a beautifully spiced spinach curry with lamb falling from the bone. Most dishes are designed to be eaten using a crepe-like sourdough bread as a spoon or fork, such as kitfo – similar to beef tartare, featuring spiced ground meat topped with cottage cheese. For newcomers, friendly staff are on hand to offer ordering advice.
Cuisine: African
BYO: Yes
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
BAMIYAN
3/82 Bennetts Rd, Camp Hill | 3172 2912 | bamiyanrestaurantqld.com
The menu at Afghan restaurant Bamiyan reveals a lengthy line-up of spice-laden curries, kebabs, vegetarian concoctions and specialty dishes, including meatballs and an assortment of pallows (rice dishes). Start with the garlic naan if you dare – it’s puffy and charry and irresistible, but also so large it could double as a doona for a small child. The mantu (beef dumplings with yoghurt sauce and ground chilli), however, is a non-negotiable. It’s also hard to go past the Kabuli pallow with lamb, which looks fit for a celebration and is equally flavoursome. Bamiyan is making its mark with generously portioned, hearty food. Did we say generously portioned?
Cuisine: Afghan
BYO: Yes
Open: D Mon-Sun, L Fri-Sat
BIANG BIANG FRESH NOODLE
421 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley | 0422 756 802
It’s all in the name – fresh and definitely biang for your buck. All the way from X’ian, these belt-like, chewy noodles are excellent comfort food but might not be first-date material with all the slurping required. Made to order, there are 10 noodle dishes, including the signature Biang Biang noodles with pork mince, potato, eggs, carrots, shallots and salad. Spicy sichuan dan dan noodles with pork mince, pickled vegetables, salad, vinegar and house-made chilli oil can be ordered dry or in a soup. And don’t miss the special cumin lamb noodles – what a winner.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L&D Mon-Sun
BIG RODDY’S RIPPIN’ RIB SHACK
South Brisbane & Fortitude Valley | bigroddysribs.com
This American-inspired barbecue joint delivers big flavours at small prices with a menu that moves from burgers and wings to poutine and, of course, ribs. While the half rack of pork ribs are the cheapest on offer, the budget savvy could instead order a full rack and split it (which works out a little cheaper), leaving more cash for additional sides like cornbread, fries and buttered beans. Or ditch the ribs entirely and load up on wings, burgers or house-made chilli fries. With enthusiastic service and an authentic US aesthetic, Big Roddy’s is a rippin’ ripper for bargain bites.
Cuisine: American
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
CARTEL DEL TACO
290 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne | 3096 0516 | carteldeltaco.com.au
Inspired by Mexican taquerias of the 1980s, it’s the type of venue that guests feel comfortable to relax in, push their sleeves up and let the juices run down their arms as they devour tacos to a soundtrack fit for a fiesta. The kitchen centrepiece is a traditional grill known as a trompo, used to create their signature Al Pastor tacos. Piled inside the thinnest of corn tortillas is pork that erupts with flavour. Just as good are the pescadillas (red snapper-stuffed, deep-fried quesadillas). A vegetarian cauliflower steak is fine, but your money and stomach are best reserved for the snacks, tacos and tequila-fuelled drinks.
Cuisine: Mexican
BYO: No
Open: L Wed-Sun & D Tue-Sun
CEYLON INN
300 Oxley Rd, Graceville | 3379 4447 | ceyloninnbne.com.au
One of the few restaurants in Brisbane serving authentic Sri Lankan fare (in addition to a variety of Indian dishes), this suburban gem is filled with expats, those who want to relive the tastes from holidays to the island nation and diners who simply love great food. The Ceylon curry with beef, chicken or lamb is a treat, or even better, the version with achingly tender goat teamed with the restaurant’s signature Ceylon naan. All curries are under $26, with most under $20, while a well-priced side of naan or roti will also help keep the household budget in check.
Cuisine: Sri Lankan/Indian
BYO: Yes
Open: D Mon-Sun
CURRYVILLE
6/629 Wynnum Road, Morningside | 0411 392 549 | curryville.com.au
Curryville is more than your average suburban Indian. While the decor is not unpleasant, its casual feel and no-frills service suggests food is the likely focus. Which it is. The lightly battered vegetable bhajis come drizzled with a perky, spicy sauce. Similarly, the samosas are fresh and crisp. The rest of the menu covers expectations (beef rogan josh, chicken korma), but does land some surprises. There are goat’s brains fried in red onion, a street food-inspired eggplant curry and chicken hai hai, which is billed as “Brisbane’s hottest curry”. In a long line of ‘villes’ – Townsville, Nashville, Noosaville – Curryville has put itself on the map.
Cuisine: Indian
BYO: Yes
Open: D Mon-Sun
DAVID’S HOT POT
662 Compton Rd, Calamvale | 3148 6606 | davidshotpot.com.au
The art of hot pot may have originated on the steppes of Mongolia but is now a big part of regional China’s many cuisines. This Brisbane transplant is Sichuan style. And inspired by Lady Ga Ga, it’s the home of the ‘Beef Barbie’ – a Barbie doll dressed in thin slices of beef. David’s is spicy fun and best enjoyed in a group for the whole hot pot experience. The starting point is a pot of steaming broth, and then comes meat, seafood and vegetables as rolls, balls or sliced. Let’s just say the meat and poultry options range from the expected to the exotic.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: Yes, $8
Open: L&D Mon-Sun
DOWNTOWN ISTANBUL
4/274 Hawthorne Rd, Hawthorne | 3902 0726 | downtownistanbul.com.au
Traditional Turkish tiles clad the open kitchen at this bright and breezy corner eatery, which brings a little bit of glamour to affordable eats in Brisbane’s east. Operated by successful restaurateurs Alemré Group, Downtown Istanbul offers a modern take on classic Turkish cuisine. While you could happily spend up big here with the (fit for a) King’s mixed grill featuring lamb, adana, chicken and garlic prawns served with rice and salad, you can just as easily stay on a tight budget with filling-yet-wallet-friendly pides, gozleme and char-grilled lamb dishes. Even the drinks list is kind, with affordable wines by the glass aplenty.
Cuisine: Turkish
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
EL PLANTA
58 Hope St, South Brisbane | 0412 728 047 | elplanta.com
Used tequila bottles form vases lining one wall of the industrial interior, while a giant cactus gives a subtle nod to Mexico in the outdoor area. Just as subtle is the fact Mexican restaurant El Planta is a vegan operation, with neither the staff nor menu mentioning its plant-based ethos. But meat-lovers won’t feel like they’re missing out with the tight culinary offering of snacks and tacos. Slow-cooked jackfruit imitates pulled pork with paprika, cumin and coriander, while crisp, battered heart of palm substitutes for fish in a pescetarian-style taco. Just beware of the use of chillies that moves from mild to “pass the milk”.
Cuisine: Mexican
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sat
FISH KITCHEN & MARKET
220 Annerley Road, Dutton Park | 3844 7943 | fishkitchenduttonpark.com
Supplying some of Brisbane’s best restaurants, this fish market and eatery is known for its top-quality catches at great prices. With a menu that is constantly changing depending on what’s biting, customers are promised the freshest fish in the land, served crumbed, battered or grilled with thick-cut chips. For non-traditionalists there is also the likes of salmon wings and bellies cooked in the smoker, or fresh crab sandwiches. Other favourites are the burgers, with beef, chicken and fish varieties all on the menu, ready to pair with wine or beer. On Wednesdays their signature fish-burger- and-a-beer deal will get you through hump day.
Cuisine: Seafood
BYO: Yes, $1 per glass
Open: L & D Wed-Sun
FITZ + POTTS
1180 Sandgate Rd, Nundah | fitzandpotts.com.au
Just as its lairy decor is like stepping into a ’70s time warp, so is the food offering at this eccentric and playful rooftop suburban bar. Loved by locals for a casual drink with friends or hardcore weekend session with top-notch local spirits and beers flying off the shelves, Fitz + Potts has become a haven for judgement-free retro snacks and good times. From the plant-based, share-style menu, the jaffles have become a star attraction, with gluten-free options available. But it’s the so-daggy-they’re-cool hors d’oeuvres on toothpicks and French onion dip served in a bread roll with Jatz that are absolute must-orders.
Cuisine: Vegan
BYO: No
Open: L Sat-Sun, D Fri-Sat
FRITZENBERGER
Wilston, Petrie Terrace & South Bank | fritzenberger.com
With patrons enjoying regular burger or wings deals, it’s no wonder this fully licenced establishment has become a top pick for those watching their pennies. But it’s not just the budget-conscious who are loyal fans, with top chefs around town also naming it their favourite bun joint. Arguably making it so popular is their commitment to good-quality ingredients, including grass-fed beef from the Byron Bay Hinterland and Sunshine Coast field mushrooms. There’s also an Impossible Beef burger for the vegans, but for those without dietary restrictions, the classic Fritzen Burger with a side of signature fries dusted with house-made salts is a win.
Cuisine: Burgers
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
GENKOTSU RAMEN
Shop E/51 Sherwood Rd, Toowong | 3870 2974 | team-nonbei.com.au/genkotsu/toowong
As if it’s been plucked from the backstreets of Osaka, this ramen haven hidden in Clements Arcade is like a little piece of Japan in Brisbane. Expect a line-up of local uni students and those in the know jostling for a bowl of the restaurant’s authentic noodles and broth all at keen prices. For just $14, diners can slurp their way through a generous serving of Genkotsu’s “original” ramen in shio, shoyu, miso or gyokai varieties, while for a dollar or two more, you can upgrade to more premium options like black garlic, karaage and even tempura soft shell crab.
Cuisine: Japanese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Tue-Sun
GNOCCHI GNOCCHI BROTHERS
Fortitude Valley, Paddington, South Bank, Southport | gnocchignocchibrothers.com.au
It’s considered one of the hardest foods to master, but the guys behind this ‘gnoccheria’ have nailed the winning recipe, turning out perfectly pillowy puffs of potato every time. Serving dine in and takeaway, their minimally adorned restaurants offer seven varieties of gnocchi, with their biggest (and arguably best) seller being the wild mushroom and truffle sauce gnocchi, closely followed by the beef bolognese. A gourmet lobster and barramundi incarnation makes the menu, too, alongside a vegan option, with diners able to pair their choice with sides like bread or salt and pepper calamari and an Italian wine or spritz on tap.
Cuisine: Italian
BYO: No
Open: D Mon-Sun, L Fri-Sun (Paddington), L Wed-Sun (South Bank)
GRASSFED
67 Fish Lane, South Brisbane | 0423 751 883 | grassfedvegan.com.au
From award-winning chef, Alejandro Cancino, and Brisbane Vegan Markets creator, Jonny Garrison, comes this insanely busy plant-based burger joint in South Brisbane’s bustling Fish Lane. With only a clutch of seats inside, you’ll often see customers perched on milk crates out the front chomping down on burgers from the tight menu which mimics traditional meat creations. Think The Aussie with a ‘beef’ patty, vegan egg, vegan cheese, pineapple, beetroot and pickle, a faux chicken katsu number, or even a fish imitation. While for dessert there’s the signature vegan soft serve, which comes on its own or in a sundae or shake.
Cuisine: Vegan
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
HAPPY BOY
East St, Fortitude Valley | 0413 246 890 | happyboy.com.au
With the brutal minimalism of its concrete-bunker interior, Happy Boy is utilitarian, loud and busy. There is, however, seating on the deck beneath the fairy-lit trees fronting East Street, which presents a quieter option when the traffic dies down. Customers stream in and order from the well-priced menu, a one-page list that runs from spring rolls to little burgers of Taiwanese chicken on milk buns, roast duck pancakes or steamed prawn and pork wontons in chilli broth, through to vegetable, seafood, meat, rice and noodle dishes. This is a one-of-a-kind destination, where most diners seem to visit for a good time not a long time.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Tue-Sun
HASHTAG BURGERS AND WAFFLES
West End & Fortitude Valley | hashtagburgersandwaffles.com.au
Its website makes the bold claim of serving “Brisbane’s best burgers” and while contentious, this hipster-cool eatery sure serves up some of the most popular. With an Instagram following of more than 15,000, diners flock to the establishments in Fortitude Valley and West End for their jam-packed bun creations that have taken years to perfect. They come topped with everything from high-quality beef to organic salad ingredients, mac ’n’ cheese patties and even crumbed beetroot, with a side of loaded fries or potato gems almost compulsory. There are desserts, too, including sweet waffles, alongside over-the-top shakes, soft drinks and beer.
Cuisine: Burgers
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
IMPRESSIVE DUMPLINGS
Everton Park, West End, Sunnybank Hills & Benowa | 1800 696 888 | idumplings.com.au
With robot waiters delivering your dishes, Impressive Dumplings sure lives up to its names. But it’s not just the futuristic technology that makes these restaurants so well-loved, but the plethora of expertly made dumplings in varieties that move outside the ordinary. Alongside classics like prawn and pork, diners can slurp back everything from crab roe and pork xiao long bao to steamed cuttlefish varieties and those with black truffle. There are also dumplings in Sichuan dressings, dumpling soups and pan-fried dumplings in all magnitude of colours. And if that’s not enough, there’s also an impressive (of course) array of noodle and rice dishes.
Cuisine: Cantonese
BYO: Yes, $5 per person
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
KCS CHICKEN
2/888 Stanley St E, East Brisbane | 0422 401 170 | Kcschicken.orderup.com.au OR instagram.com/kcschicken
After starting as a traditional Korean restaurant, this husband-and-wife operation had to change tack when COVID hit. The pair switched to takeaway-friendly fried chicken and burgers, and the decision was a winner – their crispy, golden bird has a cult following. The quarter boneless fried chicken might be the classic, but it’s the KCS chicken sandwich with chilli mayo and cucumber pickles that has foodies filling their Insta feeds. The honey-roasted sweet potato chips with special seasoning and a tiny pot of house-made kimchi is another must. And if you’re able to stretch the budget, the restaurant pours Asian-leaning cocktails and beer.
Cuisine: Korean
BYO: No
Open: L Sat-Sun, D Thur-Mon
KEBAB PALACE MANGAL & PIDES
3/2120 Logan Rd, Mount Gravatt | 3349 4545 | kebabpalace.com.au
Open until late every night, this casual Turkish diner delivers authentic flavours at unbelievable prices. Slide into a comfy booth after ordering at the counter from a range of pizza, pide, grills, kebabs, gozleme, HSP and more. The pizzas – topped with everything from lamb, spinach and feta to garlic prawns or even chips, meat and mozzarella in a quirky HSP twist – are hugely popular, as are the burgers with chips and the charcoal grills. From the latter, the must-order is the Adana, starring juicy, just-pink lamb, accompanied by fresh salad, two dips of your choice, bread and rice for just $21.
Cuisine: Turkish
BYO: No
Open: B, L & D Mon-Sun
KINGSFOOD SUNNYBANK
25/341 Mains Rd, Sunnybank | 3344 4620 | kingsfood.com.au
While its dining room is a basic affair featuring a handful of lanterns and an ubiquitous red wall, Kingsfood’s mix of terrific Taiwanese classics and dishes from the provinces of China mean the only thing diners are looking at is the food. Since the venue’s conception more than 30 years ago, go-tos from the sprawling menu – that runs from spring rolls and soups to protein-based dishes, noodles, rice and hot pot – are the salty fish with chicken fried rice, the mapo tofu and the white chicken with special sauce. Most dishes are less than $20 and big enough to be shared.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: Wine
Open: L & D Tue-Sun
KU-O JAPANESE RESTAURANT
341 Mains Rd, Sunnybank | 3172 1319
Like stepping into an alleyway eatery in Osaka, this tiny Japanese restaurant charms with its timber booths, hanging umbrellas and colourful, authentic wallpaper. Just as appealing is the far-reaching menu, covering favourites like beautifully presented sashimi, yakitori, udon, rice bowls, Japanese curries, tempura and more. Start with an entree of soft-centred, octopus-filled takoyaki or crispy-bottomed gyoza, before filling up on a bowl of crunchy chicken karaage don or comforting beef udon. Or feast on crumbed oysters, soft-shell crab or agedashi tofu, paired with one of the many delightful tea-based drinks on offer, including lemon matcha or brown sugar chamomile.
Cuisine: Japanese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Fri-Wed
KULCHA KULTURE
208 Kingston Rd, Slacks Creek | 3290 2246 | kulchakulture.com.au
If you don’t believe the spiel on the website preaching its authenticity, then the crowds of Indians who gather in the car park waiting for a table at Kulcha Kulture should provide all the proof you need. Humble in appearance with its mix of timber tables and metal chairs, it’s the food that has everyone swooning. Amritsari fare is the go here, with traditional flavours from the north of India showcased in dishes like fish pakora, rara chicken and crispy, golden, naan-like kulcha breads that are ready to mop up everything from lamb madras to fish malabari. The lassi drinks also get a gold star.
Cuisine: Indian
BYO: Yes
Open: L & D Tue-Sun
LEK’S THAI POP-UP KITCHEN
167 Given Tce, Paddington | 3157 8225 | paddingtonsocial.com.au
By day it’s a popular bakery and cafe, but this Paddington eatery reveals a whole new personality – and menu – by night, when it morphs into Lek’s Thai Pop-Up Kitchen. The menu is extensive – salads, curries, soups, wok-fries, noodle and rice dishes – but stays largely in standard suburban territory, although there’s a strong selection of vegan options and an array of well-priced one-plate wonders, such as wok-fried crispy pork belly. Crispy barramundi fillets bathed in a spicy red curry paste are generous enough to be a meal for two, while the green curry of beef is also hearty and pleasingly unfussy.
Cuisine: Thai
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sat
LITTLE GREEK TAVERNA
5/1 Browning St, West End | 3255 2215 | littlegreektaverna.com.au
Synonymous with great Greek food in Brisbane, this family owned and operated casual taverna has long been drawing in the crowds with its big portions, smiling service and dirt-cheap prices.
Take a seat on the bustling footpath, where there’s always something to look at, and enjoy the freshest of ingredients cooked simply, humbly and authentically. Little in name but not portion size, work your way through a massive mezze platter that could easily feed four, or try the Florinian platter boasting dip, pita, kefalograviera, Greek salad and souvlaki. There’s also an array of entrees and mains, including moussaka, char-grilled fish and lamb souvla.
Cuisine: Greek
BYO: Yes, $4 per person
Open: L Thu-Sun & D Tue-Sun
LITTLE RED DUMPLING
various locations | littlereddumpling.com.au
Little Red Dumpling HQ resides in the heritage-listed former Anglican cathedral in the CBD. As the name implies, dumplings are their specialty, with vegetarian and potsticker styles, alongside all the favourites from lamb coriander, to szechuan pork and rainbow beauties. The prawn xiao long bao are a crowd-pleaser, while ‘Not Dumplings’ like noodle soups, braised lamb, minced chicken dry noodles or shallot pancakes will have you coming back for more. With 14 Little Red Dumpling bars across south-east Queensland, a feast can cost less than cooking at home, with no washing up an extra bonus.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L&D Mon-Sun
LUCHA BLACK
G14/140 Elizabeth St, Brisbane City | 3061 2159 | lucha.com.au
Hiding down Brisbane CBD’s Albert Lane, this contemporary Australian-Chinese eatery offers a slick fit-out and tome-like menu, extending from dim sum and hot pot to popular Chinese favourites, all at budget-friendly prices. Start with the stand-out soupy xiao long bao or moreish duck san choy bao, before moving to the must-order cumin-crusted, wok-fried lamb or the venue’s hero dish, a crispy-skinned, tea-smoked half chicken – wickedly good when swiped through the accompanying salty-sweet powder. A keenly priced wine list is well-matched to the food, as are an array of tea-infused cocktails and mocktails, beers, frappes, fruit drinks, sodas and more.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
MALAYA CORNER
38/341 Mains Rd, Sunnybank | 3344 3788 | malayacorner.com.au
If it’s laksa you’re craving, this Sunnybank stalwart is a must. Serving up deeply layered, bountiful bowls of the paprika-stained broth topped with your choice of seafood or chicken, it will have you grinning in your seat. Service is swift and food comes out at pace, with their intensely flavoured salty fish fried rice another absolute must-order, and arguably the best in an area rife with restaurants offering the classic dish. There is an abundance of other Malaysian favourites to choose from, including nasi lemak, roti canai curry and stir-fried seafood with sambal, which are all keenly priced and generously portioned.
Cuisine: Malaysian
BYO: No
Open: L & D Thur-Tue
NEW SHANGHAI
Level 2, Westfield Garden City, 2049 Logan Rd, Upper Mount Gravatt | 3161 1500 | newshanghai.com.au
With outlets across the country, this contemporary Chinese restaurant brand has become a go-to for those after fast, affordable fare within a flashy fit-out. Dining rooms are elaborately decorated with Oriental influences, and are as suitable for special occasions as they are a quick lunch. As the moniker suggests, most dishes are from Shanghai, with the city’s culinary delicacies creating a menu far removed from your standard Aussie-Cantonese offering. Try the likes of cold noodles with smoked fish, salted duck or hot noodle soup with spicy pork, prawns and smoked tofu. There’s also everything from dumplings and wontons to meat, seafood and vegetable dishes.
Cuisine: Chinese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Thur-Tue
NGON
183 Given Tce, Paddington | 3705 3082 | ngonbrisbane.com.au
Tuan Nguyen opened Ngon in a smaller shopfront up the street in 2019, but burgeoning demand forced the move. Now a flotilla of coloured lanterns bobs from the ceiling of the new airier digs. The kitchen hasn’t made it easy for itself, with an extensive menu including a strong vegetarian and vegan repertoire, and more than 30 other small (perhaps corn ribs, salt and pepper tofu or pork dumplings) and large plates (the signature pho, duck salad, twice-cooked pork belly) and chef’s specials (ginger garlic prawns, Moreton Bay bugs). The odd celestial reverberation aside, it’s a laid-back zone suitable for families, groups and couples alike.
Cuisine: Vietnamese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Tue-Sat
NUTMEG INDIAN CUISINE
281 Sandgate Rd, Albion | 3726 5515 | nutmegindiancuisine.com.au
Not your average Indian restaurant, Nutmeg is about taking traditional flavours of the subcontinent and giving them a contemporary twist. While favourites like butter chicken and vindaloo are necessary inclusions on the menu, it’s the snacks where the real fun is had, turning mandatory samosas into photogenic spiced potato and pea swirls, or offering up slow-cooked pepper lamb in a trio of sliders with smoked chilli and pickled onion relish. The goat and prawn curries are also must-orders. With most dishes coming in under budget, there may even be money left over for a beer or wine from the carefully curated drinks list.
Cuisine: Indian
BYO: No
Open: L Thur, D Tue-Sun
PAWPAW ASIAN KITCHEN
2/216 Riding Road, Balmoral | 3899 1691 | pawpawcafe.com.au/pawpaw-asian-kitchen/
This cosy suburban eatery in Brisbane’s east has become a favourite for its flavour-packed South-East Asian fare, focusing particularly on the dishes of Thailand, Laos and Indonesia. Diners can share small plates such as chilli popcorn chicken, steamed baos and dumplings, or fill up on a curry, stir-fry or noodle dish. Top-notch ingredients are used for each, including wagyu beef, while the roti canai curry accompanied by gorgeous flaky roti is a must. The restaurant’s coconut rice is also some of the best around, perfect with the fragrant basil stir-fry and a glass of Queensland wine or beer from the well-priced drinks list.
Cuisine: Asian
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sun
PROVA PIZZERIA
61 Wilgarning St, Stafford Heights | 3160 7164 | provapizzeria.com.au
Prova saw many tired families through lockdown with a wide-ranging Italian takeaway menu of antipasti, traditional and not-so-traditional pizzas, as well as family-sized lasagne. Like washing hung high above a Sicilian alley, the antipasti hanging stand put Prova on the Instagram map in 2016. A deceptively simple Margherita pizza ($22) demonstrates the pizzaiolo’s skill. Twelve more options, including a funghi with truffle paste and truffle oil or Maremonti ($27) with garlic prawns and pancetta, fit the bill for a budget night out. Keep room for a light and zingy Limoncello tiramisu or gnocchini, aka deep-fried Nutella-smothered dough balls, for dessert.
Cuisine: Pizza
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sun
RAMEN DANBO
South Brisbane, Sunnybank Hills & Brisbane City | ramendanbo.com.au
Born in Fukuoka, Japan, this ramen shop has taken the globe by storm, with outlets in more than 35 locations around the world. Now with six stores across Queensland, Ramen Danbo has gained popularity thanks to its signature creamy tonkotsu broth, which, they say, is made using the highest-quality pork bones. Diners can choose from eight varieties of ramen, with the option to select the noodle’s firmness, plus the soup’s richness, spiciness and saltiness. For the broth in its most pure form, choose the classic with nitamago, while those who like it hot should order the rekka variety in spicy.
Cuisine: Japanese
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
RED LOTUS VIETNAMESE CHARGRILL
3 Cracknell Rd, Annerley | 0423 888 612 | red-lotus.com.au
The oversized Red Lotus lampshades cast a warm glow in a space designed for devouring deep-fried quail and benchmark green papaya salad, but not lingering – there’s a time limit of one hour after your dishes hit the table. The menu has plenty of the usual suspects and some surprises. Peking duck rice paper rolls are hoisin sauced on the inside, and the Morning Glory with fish sauce and fresh garlic or Black Angus porterhouse will not disappoint. From the charcoal grill, Pepsi-marinated pork belly sits happily alongside 10 vegan options, including stir-fries and salt ’n’ pepper tofu.
Cuisine: Vietnamese
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sun
RIPIENA
1/826 Ann St, Fortitude Valley | 3705 3729 | ripiena.com.au
This itty-bitty 20-seat restaurant does one thing and does it well – pasta. Run by Nicolo’ and Anita Campagnari, the minimalistic space turns out handmade pasta and authentic sauces each day that can be eaten in-house or bought for takeaway. Although top-notch ingredients are used, including flour shipped from Italy, prices are affordable, with pastas between $22 and $27, while desserts are just $8-$15. Filled pastas, for which the restaurant is named, are understandably a speciality, with the likes of roasted eggplant tortelloni and the signature plin all’nduja – agnolotti stuffed with spicy ’nduja, ricotta and pecorino – standouts on the concise menu.
Cuisine: Italian
BYO: No
Open: L & D Wed-Sun
RITA’S TEQUILA TAQUERIA
36 Vernon Tce, Teneriffe | ritasbar.com.au
It’s Mexican, but not as you know it. Instead, think of an ever-changing line-up of tacos with decidedly un-Mexican flavourings, like crispy fried emperor with spiced pea and jalapeño salsa, fried potato, nori vinegar and tartare sauce. Another standout is the chilli-caramel pork belly with miso mayo, caramelised nuts and chives. Two empanadas with chorizo and black garlic are a bargain, while a big bowl of chilli fries with Szechuan spice and lime mayo is a table-pleaser. With cracker cocktails and a connoisseur’s tequila and mezcal list, it’s a party six days a week.
Cuisine: Mexican
BYO: No
Open: L Fri-Sun & D Tue-Sat
ROTI PLACE
42 Charlotte St, Brisbane City | 3211 5353 | rotiplace.com.au
Continually named one of the best spots in Brisbane for cheap eats by the city’s top foodies and chefs, Roti Place is all about showcasing the finest of Malaysian street food. Housed in a quaint old building in the city heart with exposed brick walls and greenery, the restaurant specialises in roti canai, with roti masters on show flipping the flaky, flatbread to order in both sweet and savoury options from a bargain price. Other big drawcard dishes include nasi lemak, char kuey teow and Hainanese chicken, served alongside beer, wine and authentic Malaysian cold drinks.
Cuisine: Malaysian
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
SEOUL BISTRO
152 Turton St, Sunnybank | 3345 6360 | seoulbistro.com.au
You’d be hard pressed to find an eatery in Brisbane that delivers better value for money than Seoul Bistro in the city’s south. For a steal you can devour all the fried chicken wings you can stomach, along with bottomless fries, garlic bread and iced tea. There is a 90-minute time limit, but you’ll have reached maximum satiation well before then. And the wings are finger-licking good with 10 flavours to choose from, including original, peri peri and honey wasabi. The no-frills eatery also offers a range of rice bowls, burgers, loaded fries and chicken tenders at highly affordable prices.
Cuisine: Asian
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
SEOULFUL CHICKEN
6A/791 Stafford Rd, Everton Park | 3074 9490 | seoulfulchicken.com
This family-run eatery in Brisbane’s north has become one of the most popular restaurants on delivery platforms, but its cosy fit-out and cheeky cartoon mural makes this a fun spot to dine in, too. Describing itself as a temple of fried chicken, the restaurant uses ingredients imported directly from South Korea to make its hugely popular crispy flour coating, before the half or whole bird is hit with one of six different marinades, such as sweet chilli, garlic soy or volcano. There’s also fried chicken burgers, stir-fries, rice and noodle dishes and wings, ready to be paired with chips, shakes or house-made Korean drinks.
Cuisine: Korean
BYO: No
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
SNACK MAN
East St, Fortitude Valley | 0413 246 890 | snack-man.com.au
Beneath the fairy lights in Fortitude Valley’s East St lies a busy trio of restaurants owned by brothers Cameron and Jordan Votan. Sandwiched between Happy Boy and Kid Curry is middle child Snack Man, demanding attention with a wide range of Chinese street food and small-plate options teamed with an eclectic European wine list. And it’s going off like a cracker. The menu works through dumplings, buns, rice and noodles to big snacks like the fall-off-the-bone slow-cooked beef rib. Food arrives quickly, so order a little at a time if you want to enjoy a few drinks between snacks.
Cuisine: Asian
BYO: No
Open: D Tue-Sun
SUPER BOWL CHINESE RESTAURANT
185 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley | 3257 2188 | superbowlrestaurant.com.au
A top pick among those in Brisbane’s hospitality industry, this Chinese and Malaysian restaurant from Jimmy and Eunice Chung is beloved for its generous portions, authentic flavours and charming service. For the ultimate value, come at lunchtime when prices are significantly discounted, with favourites like sweet and sour pork selling for $14.80 including rice, while their coveted laksas start from just $13.80. Prices at dinner are still more than affordable, with the prawn toast a must, alongside the Supreme Soya boneless chicken. Alternatively, ask the staff for advice when ordering to discover some of the restaurant’s best dishes.
Cuisine: Chinese/Malaysian
BYO: Wine with minimum $30 spend
Open: L & D Thur-Tue
TARO’S RAMEN
Ascot, South Brisbane, Stones Corner & Brisbane City | taros-ramen.myshopify.com
With four eponymous Japanese eateries across Brisbane, owner Taro Akimoto has become known as the city’s king of ramen. Each of his venues boasts its own unique look from the completely no-frills to authentically Japanese with warm blonde wood, but all deliver some of the best ramen in the state – arguably the country – made with top-notch ingredients like Bangalow Sweet Pork. While the classic tonkotsu is the most popular, it’s the fire version that will truly light up your world. Taro’s also does some seriously good karaage, which can be ordered on its own as an appetiser or topping the chicken curry.
Cuisine: Japanese
BYO: Wine
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
THAI NARAMIT
4/5 Zillman Rd, Hendra | 3172 0259 | thainaramit.com.au
Don’t let the low prices fool you – this is no average suburban takeaway. Thai Naramit attracts expats from across Brisbane for its authentic menu. The ‘elevated’ and extensive Farang menu offers plenty of taste sensations, with 10 pages of spicy, fresh and complex stir-fries, curries, salads, rice and noodle dishes. Bargain hunters love tom yum or tom kha soups sized as both entree (from $9.99) and main (from $17.90 to $22.90) with a choice of vegetable, chicken, prawn or other seafood. Meanwhile, there are six different takes on whole barramundi, and nearly the entire menu is offered as mild, medium or hot.
Cuisine: Thai
BYO: Yes
Open: L & D Mon-Sun
TOCCO ITALIANO
80 Oxley Rd, Chelmer | 3075 5101 | toccoitaliano.com.au
With fourth-generation restaurateur Arturo Buonocore and team welcoming diners like family, this suburban, child-friendly Italian restaurant is a favourite of locals and high-profile chefs alike. It opens for breakfast and brunch, serving classic cafe favourites like French toast, ham and cheese croissants or mushrooms and eggs on toast; at dinner it’s all about pizza, pasta and Italian wine. There are more than 20 pizzas to choose from, with white and red-based options, including five twists on the classic Margherita. Most are less than $24, and none are over $28. A quartet of generously portioned pastas are all for $25-$26.
Cuisine: Italian
BYO: No
Open: B & L Mon-Sun, D Wed-Sun
TOK TOK
11/158 Gowan Rd, Sunnybank Hills | 0426 717 893 | toktokbrisbane.com.au
It’s the smoky sizzle of Sunnybank’s Tok Tok table-top barbecue that keeps diners returning for more. For all Korean BBQ’s greatest hits, it has to be the two-serve ‘You Choose BBQ’ menu at Tok Tok. With premium wagyu ($30) to soy-marinated chicken thigh ($20), you get all the sides, as well as lettuce and BBQ dipping sauces. It makes for a cheap date night. While meat dreams are made of this, vegetarians have plenty of options besides $16 vegie fried rice. Hot- or cold-stone bibimbap begins at $14 and a Korean fried chicken half bird ($18) comes with cooling cabbage salad and pickled radish.
Cuisine: Korean
BYO: No
Open: D Wed-Mon
YESHI BUNA ETHIO-AFRICAN CAFÉ AND RESTAURANT
1/131 Beaudesert Rd, Moorooka | 0423 746 634
Stationed in a suburban strip of shops, what Ethiopian restaurant Yeshi Buna lacks in flashy decor, it more than makes up for in personality and charm. Homely and full of character, this casual eatery serves lunch and dinner with African favourites filling the broad menu.
Settle in among the sunshine-hued walls and be treated to beautifully plated delicacies such as the Ethiopian version of a steak tartare, the braised chicken dish doro wott, which is usually reserved for special occasions, or various meat and vegetable platters for two, all very reasonably priced. There are also plenty of halal and vegetarian options.
Cuisine: Ethiopian
BYO: Yes $3 per person
Open: L & D Wed-Mon
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