On a mission to find the best chicken parmy under $30
Where you live really does impact what you pay. After taste tests and research, see the list of where to get Brisbane’s best chicken parmigiana for as cheap ast $15 right up to $36. LIST
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Renowned for its vibrant culture and delicious culinary scene, Brisbane has always been a hub for foodies. Amid the number of cuisines that this city has to offer, one dish has managed to captivate the hearts of locals — the humble chicken parmy.
Parmie, parmi, parmy or parma — no matter how you say it, the much loved classic chicken dish has been served to happy customers since the 1950s.
Consisting of a chicken breast coated in breadcrumbs or panko, topped with ham and a rich tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese, it is a staple on almost every menu throughout the city.
We’ve spoken to a chef to find out what makes a great chicken parmy, and have picked out some of Brisbane’s best under $30.
THE PADDO TAVERN
Paddington
According to Chuggy, venue manager at The Paddo Tavern, a good chicken parmigiana is an essential benchmark when it comes to pub food. “Our parmies are good,” Chuggy said, ”and it is definitely a benchmark when speaking about pub food.”
For Chuggy, there are a few key elements that make a good one. Firstly, the chicken needs to be moist, evenly cooked, and have a light, even crumb. The sauce should be thick and packed with flavour, made from a homemade Napoli that has been cooked for hours.
Next comes the ham, which needs to have a balanced flavour that won’t overpower the chicken, and then the cheese, which needs to brown up nicely without leaving puddles of oil on top of the parmie.
The Paddo Tavern also offers a range of unique parmie variations, including a French, Mexican, and seafood option, all served with chips and salad on the side.
Prices range between $23 – 30 (members)
NEWSTEAD BREWING CO
Milton
Newstead Brewing Co is a popular brewery and pub located in Milton. They are known for their epic range of craft beers, including pale ales, IPAs, stouts, and lagers. Pub classics like burgers, pizzas, and of course, a crowd favourite, the classic chicken parmy- coming in just under $30.
Price: $28
OXFORD 152
Bulimba
Oxford 152 is a bar and restaurant located in Brisbane’s east. The venue is known for its vintage decor, relaxed atmosphere and live music.
Oxford 152’s pub-style menu has regulars touting their classic chicken parmie as one of Brisbane’s best.
Price: $28
PINEAPPLE HOTEL
Kangaroo Point
The historic Pineapple Hotel was first established in 1864 and has since undergone several renovations, but still retains its old-world charm.
The venue features a variety of indoor and outdoor dining areas, including a restaurant, bar, and beer garden. A reasonably priced parmie in a welcoming location puts it high on our list of parmies under $30.
Price: $16 – $25
NEWSTEAD SOCIAL
Newstead
Not just a beautiful venue, Newstead Social is hard to beat on price, offering weekday specials for just $17. The venues ‘Parmie Night’ happens every Thursday and sees them serving up great pamie feeds for a fraction of the usual price.
Price: $17
THE JUNCTION
Annerley
A popular spot among locals, Annerley’s The Junction hotel has the cheapest parmie on our list. At just $15 this Thursday night special is one to look out for and is the best value for money.
If you’re looking for something a little different, why not try their seafood parmie!
Price: $15
THE REGATTA HOTEL
Toowong
The Regatta Hotel is renowned for serving up a big chicken parmigiana. Whether you’re a fan of hearty pub grub or just looking for a quick feed, the Regatta’s chicken parmie is good value for money.
Price: $26
ARCHIVE BEER BOUTIQUE
West End
Archive Beer Boutique is a popular bar and restaurant that offers an extensive selection of craft beers and delicious pub foods. One of their standout dishes is the chicken parmigiana.
Archive’s chicken parmie is made with generous servings, making it a hearty and satisfying meal for a reasonable price, not to mention the perfect spot to grab a beer and a chicken parmie with friends.
Price: $25
THE BOUNDARY HOTEL
West End
The Boundary Hotel is a popular spot for locals, offering a relaxed atmosphere along with a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. The Boundary‘s menu features a variety of dishes, including their signature chicken parmie served with slaw or chips.
With its big outdoor seating area, the Boundary Hotel is a great spot to enjoy a casual dinner or a drink with friends while indulging in their tasty parmie.
Price: $24
THE CLEVELAND SANDS HOTEL
Cleveland
The Cleveland Sands Hotel is a popular local pub that offers great food and drinks, on top of a welcoming atmosphere making it a great spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy a meal and drink.
The menu features a range of classic pub favourites, and of course a tasty classic chicken parmie with good value for money.
Price: $27
Special mention – What does one of Brisbane's most expensive parmies look like?
BRISBANE GERMAN CLUB
Woolloongabba
One of the more expensive parmies we found at a massive $36, but we’ve added points for a great atmosphere.
Brisbane‘s German Club was founded in 1883, making it one of the oldest cultural clubs in the city. The venue offers a range of traditional German food and drinks. The German Club also hosts events and celebrations, such as Oktoberfest and Christmas markets.
Price: $36
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