New Brisbane

Working downtown, we’re always looking for a good place to grab a sneaky pub lunch and after a case of food poisoning that I suspect was brought on by eating at the Spring Hill Tavern, I decided enough was enough. It was time to stop putting up with what was conveniently nearby and to find somewhere decent. Fortunately, my dad breezed through town the other week on one of his 3-day visits and, as old people are wont to do, he wanted to go on a boat cruise. Motoring along with touristy didgeridoo music playing from the boat’s loudspeaker, I spied a few restaurants underneath Sienna’s on the Eagle St Pier that I never knew existed, and so after our cruise, we went and grabbed a bite at the Boardwalk Bar & Bistro.

Boardwalk Bar + Bistro
Boardwalk Level, Riparian Plaza
71 Eagle Street, Brisbane QLD 4000
(07) 3221 0026
www.boardwalkbar.com.au

Hard pressed to find a truly good pub lunch in downtown Brisbane, I can honestly say I am glad that I went on that boat cruise, or I might never have found the Boardwalk Bar. Everything about this pub is truly amazing and I can’t think of a better place in all of Brisbane that I’d rather sneak off for a liquid lunch.

First of all, their location is fantastic. Perched on the edge of the Brisbane River, their riverside bench seating provides for awesome views of the Storey Bridge while you enjoy your favourite ice cold beverage. And with an open, vibrant atmosphere, Boardwalk is perfect for socialising with friends and office crew alike.

Now, for me, the single biggest determinite in what makes a great pub lunch, aside from having a good range of reasonably-priced beverages (which Boardwalk more than provide), is the quality of food. And again, Boardwalk doesn’t disappoint. With a broad, but uncomplicated menu that encompasses a selection of seafood, grill, pizza and salad options, it was easy to find something to enjoy. And if you’re not sure what to drink with your meal, the menu also has a handy suggestion for each of the grill/seafood dishes.

The service was fast and efficient and the staff were more than willing to share a smile or have a bit of a laugh. Unlike some inner-city bars, it seems that Boardwalk have made an effort to hire bubbly, friendly staff who love their job. And just quietly, the girls there were all pretty good looking, too! More importantly, our food was brought out quite quickly, served with a smile and was absolutely delicious.

I always try to visit a restaurant twice before I make up my mind, but this place sold me the first time I went there and I have been back several times since - even dragging my whole work crew down there one day. The food is consistently great and the atmosphere is always very laid back and relaxed, perfect for chilling out after a hard half-day of work! Check their website out for the daily specials too, my favourite is the 2-4-1 pasta/pizza on Tuesdays!

- Ross