Brisbane Tapas and Drinks – Things to do in Brisbane
Other than the indigenous climate and produce, Australian cuisine has been derived from the tastes and produce of immigrant settlers. Immigrants from the Mediterranean have had a particularly strong influence on Australia’s food culture. We’re now seeing more of this influence in the form of tapas bars and restaurants. It was also for this reason that we started offering a signature Mediterranean tour.
One of the things I love most about tapas is that with small bites, you can enjoy so many different flavours and taste a variety of dishes before filling up. So, why not make a delicious evening out of it and check out a few of Brisbane’s best tapas and drinks.
Here is my recommendation for a tasty evening of tapas.
First Stop – Elixir Rooftop Bar
Image credit: Visit Brisbane
This trendy, yet quaint rooftop bar is located in the heart of Fortitude Valley. With a combination of great cocktails, a great atmosphere, and friendly staff, it’s a great place to enjoy some tapas in a relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re a cheese-o-holic like myself, start with a delicious cheese board. It comes with three different cheese, quince paste, apple and lavosh. Do you really need some extra convincing?
I think it’s nice to kick things off with a refreshing cocktail like the Southside or Mojito.
If you love the vibe and enjoy your cocktails, stick around for some roast Kipfler potatoes with smoked tomato aioli or chicken and chorizo skewers.
Second Stop – Bistro Alegria
Image credit: Bistro Alegria
Located in the inner-suburb of Milton, Alegria’s menu stays true to the traditional flavours and taste sensations of rustic Mediterranean cooking.
Alegria is founded on a rich tradition of the powerful but elegant purity of Mediterranean fusion cuisine. Thier menu features the rustic influence of Spanish, Greek, Italian, and French culture, and changes seasonally.
This is certainly a more traditional venue for tapas. You will be taken to the Mediterranean as soon as you walk in the door.
Two dishes on their current menu I would definitely recommend are the pork, pea and potato croquettes and the octopus with chorizo, paprika and caramelised cauliflower. Both of these pair well with prosecco, but if prosecco doesn’t float your boat, the staff will be more than happy to find something else more to your liking.
Third Stop – Public
Image credit: The Weekend Edition
The innovative modern Australian share plates and creative cocktails at Public make it a great last stop for a tapas adventure with a really Australian twist.
Perched in a glass box, Public is part kitchen, part bar, and part New York loft. Again, some menu items will be available year round, while others will change seasonally to reflect their commitment to utilising fresh local ingredients.
One dish that is always on the menu and for good reason is their KFD. Kentucky Fried Duck with corn and lime. This dish is always a favourite with our guests. Another great dish is the brisket with chipotle and Oaxaca. Why not get a couple of sides to complete the meal like salt ‘n’ vinegar fries and Iceberg with green goddess dressing and you’ve got a delicious meal to devour.
As they have both a great wine and cocktail list, I’d recommend having some wine with your food and capping off your evening with a yummy cocktail like ‘A Parting Gift.’