From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas and creamy tiramisù, Brisbane’s Italian dining scene is a love letter to Italy itself. Across the city, chefs are blending regional traditions with modern flair, using seasonal produce and heartfelt technique to create unforgettable dishes.
Whether you’re twirling spaghetti on a riverside terrace or enjoying pizza with friends in South Bank, Brisbane has something for every Italian-food lover.
But what if you could take your evening to another level? Imagine a private chef coming to your home in Brisbane, crafting a multi-course Italian feast just for you. At Take a Chef, we bring that experience straight to your table.
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What makes Italian food so special?
Italian cuisine is built on simplicity, quality, and passion. Each dish tells a story, of family recipes, regional pride, and fresh, local ingredients. Think silky tagliatelle tossed in rich ragù, thin-crust pizzas bubbling with mozzarella, or delicate seafood risottos bursting with Mediterranean aroma.
The best Italian food isn’t about fancy presentation, it’s about balance and authenticity. Brisbane’s top Italian restaurants embrace that philosophy, sourcing Australian produce and pairing it with Italian techniques to create food that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
Where to eat Italian food in Brisbane: our top picks
1889 Enoteca
Located in Woolloongabba, 1889 Enoteca is an institution for traditional Roman cuisine. Set inside a heritage-listed building, its warm, vintage decor sets the tone for an authentic Italian experience. The house-made pasta, like the signature cacio e pepe or slow-braised beef short rib ragù, pairs perfectly with their extensive Italian wine list. For an intimate date night or celebration, the private cellar dining room adds a touch of timeless elegance.
Julius Pizzeria
A South Brisbane favourite, Julius Pizzeria is bustling, modern, and effortlessly cool. Its wood-fired pizzas are legendary, crisp yet chewy, loaded with fresh ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and spicy sopressa. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, making it the perfect place for a casual night with friends or family. Don’t leave without trying the panna cotta, it’s one of Brisbane’s best.
Popolo
Situated along the Brisbane River in South Bank, Popolo offers a dining experience that’s both scenic and social. True to its name (“popolo” means “people”), the restaurant is all about sharing. Think antipasti boards, rustic pizzas, and handmade gnocchi served in generous portions. The outdoor terrace overlooking the water makes it ideal for sunny lunches and romantic dinners alike.
Ciao Papi
Right next to Howard Smith Wharves, Ciao Papi blends classic Italian flavours with a playful, modern vibe. Its riverside location is unbeatable, and the menu celebrates coastal Italian cuisine, light, fresh, and full of character. Favourites include spaghetti vongole, prawn risotto, and crispy calamari with lemon aioli. Pair it with a glass of prosecco, and you’ll feel transported to the Amalfi Coast.
Biànca
Located in Fortitude Valley, Biànca is one of Brisbane’s most talked-about Italian restaurants, and for good reason. The space is sleek, bright, and energetic, with a menu that perfectly balances traditional dishes and modern interpretations. Handmade pasta, creamy burrata, and the signature tiramisù are standouts, while the service is as polished as the presentation. If you’re looking for a stylish yet approachable Italian dining experience, Biànca delivers.
Settimo
At Settimo, located inside The Westin Brisbane, award-winning chef Guy Grossi brings Amalfi-inspired dining to Queensland’s capital. The menu focuses on fresh seafood, citrus, and herbs, offering an elegant take on coastal Italian cuisine. Dishes like the lemon tagliolini and kingfish crudo embody the spirit of the Mediterranean. Perfect for business dinners or special occasions, Settimo combines refined flavours with the warmth of Italian hospitality.
Rosmarino
Rosmarino, in the heart of Fortitude Valley, is where fine dining meets rustic charm. The team takes pride in traditional Italian craftsmanship, from handmade pasta to cured meats and artisanal bread. Their duck ravioli with sage butter and pecorino is a must-try, as is the impressive wine list featuring small Italian producers. Rosmarino is an excellent choice for food lovers seeking sophistication.
Storia on Queen
Set in Brisbane’s CBD, Storia on Queen brings an intimate touch to city dining. With its romantic lighting, polished service, and creative takes on Italian classics, it’s perfect for date nights or post-work dinners. Standouts include the gnocchi alla sorrentina and the slow-cooked lamb shank. The restaurant’s name, storia, meaning “story”, reflects its focus on crafting memorable dining experiences through food.
Italia Lane
Hidden away on a laneway in Fortitude Valley, Italia Lane is a slice of urban Italy. This cosy spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a glass of wine and a plate of pasta after work. Expect hearty, no-fuss dishes like lasagna, arancini, and calamari fritti. With its friendly staff and affordable prices, Italia Lane captures the essence of a true Italian osteria, simple, authentic, and full of charm.
Olive & Angelo
Located on Edward Street, Olive & Angelo is a family-run restaurant that celebrates both northern and southern Italian cuisine. The menu spans everything from handmade pappardelle and wood-fired pizza to fresh seafood and vegan options. The airy courtyard setting, complete with fairy lights and greenery, makes it a favourite for gatherings and celebrations. For a sweet finish, don’t miss their Nutella calzone, it’s pure indulgence.
Bring local flavors to your kitchen
From market-fresh ingredients to traditional recipes, a private chef turns your home into a true local experience.
Prefer to stay in? Book a private Italian chef in Brisbane
Sometimes, the best table in town is your own. With Take a Chef, you can enjoy a tailor-made Italian dining experience without leaving home.
Our private chefs in Brisbane craft personalised menus that reflect your tastes, whether that means a romantic four-course dinner, a family pizza night, or a gourmet tasting menu inspired by Tuscany.
Each chef brings everything needed, from ingredients to tableware, and even takes care of the clean-up, leaving you to relax and savour every bite. It’s the perfect choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply celebrating la dolce vita in the comfort of your own home.
Signature Italian dishes to try in Brisbane
Italian cuisine offers endless delights, but some dishes are simply timeless. As you explore Brisbane’s Italian restaurants, or dine in with a private chef, keep an eye out for these favourites:
- Tagliatelle al Ragù: rich, slow-cooked meat sauce from Bologna, best enjoyed with freshly made pasta.
- Margherita Pizza: a Neapolitan classic topped with tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
- Risotto ai Frutti di Mare: creamy rice infused with seafood broth and fresh shellfish.
- Vitello Tonnato: thinly sliced veal topped with a smooth tuna-anchovy sauce.
- Tiramisù: the ultimate Italian dessert, espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with mascarpone cream and cocoa.
- Arancini: crispy fried rice balls filled with mozzarella and ragù.
FAQs: finding the best Italian food in Brisbane
Which neighbourhoods in Brisbane have great Italian restaurants?
South Bank and Fortitude Valley are hotspots for Italian dining, with favourites like Popolo, Biànca, and Italia Lane. Woolloongabba and the CBD also offer gems such as 1889 Enoteca and Storia on Queen.
How much does an Italian dinner in Brisbane cost?
Expect to spend around $25–$40 per person in casual spots like Italia Lane or Julius Pizzeria, while fine-dining venues like Settimo or Rosmarino can range from $70–$120 per person depending on your order.
Do Brisbane’s Italian restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Absolutely! Olive & Angelo and Popolo have extensive vegetarian menus, while Biànca and Ciao Papi often feature plant-forward seasonal dishes.
Ready to enjoy Italian food in Brisbane?
From lively pizzerias to elegant fine dining, Brisbane’s Italian restaurants serve up warmth, flavour, and a touch of amore in every bite. Whether you’re exploring the city’s culinary scene or enjoying a private dining experience at home with Take a Chef, one thing’s certain, good food, good wine, and good company are always on the menu.
