Visit: 21 April 2019, lunch for one.
Price: ***
Awards: Stokehouse Q retained Two Hats at the 2018 Good Food Awards.
Website: https://stokehouseq.com.au
Review: The website claims “Stokehouse Q embodies ‘relaxed elegance’, thanks to the up-market dining style that is complemented by youthful, attentive and knowledgeable service. The menu is inspired by flavours from the Mediterranean and greater Europe, cued by the freshest local produce, curated by some of Australia’s most talented young chefs. The experience is made complete by the restaurant itself, Brisbane’s most photogenic venue, and the unsurpassed river and city views.”
I should have been warned by the reference to “youthful” staff, which is basically a synonym for “inexperienced”.
When I arrived, there was nobody at reception, so after waiting a few minutes I asked a waiter if he could help. I was seated at a small corner table which was fine.
I ordered some of the interesting “snacks” to start proceedings. Unfortunately, my starter was served immediately, before the snacks had arrived. This was obviously a mistake and I was probably given the starter from another table.
The snacks were exceptional, as was the starter. The main course Kobe beef was a very high grade and too fatty for my tastes, but was well cooked and presented. It had been sous vide to medium-rare level, and maybe if I had requested it to be served medium they would have pan fried it and some of the fattiness would have been reduced. The Easter bombe dessert was fine.
The views across the river are exceptional; the restaurant decor is modern and appealing; the food is good, but not outstanding; and apart from one waitress who tried to welcome me (Lara), her colleagues tried hard to avoid me and didn’t want to approach my table to top up my wine glass. I resolved this issue by asking for a wine bucket at my table.
This is a good restaurant if you want a great view from a very stylish restaurant, and you are not too bothered about the service.
The entrance:
Outside the restaurant from the river side:
The view to the city:
The view to the bridges:
The food and menu:
