This review provides everything you need to know about a stay at the Stamford Plaza in Brisbane.
The Brisbane Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal and Yuggera people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Stamford Plaza is situated. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
The Stamford Plaza Brisbane, an iconic hotel nestled along the Brisbane River, has long been a favourite for travellers seeking a blend of luxury, elegance, and convenience in the city’s heart.
Renowned for its timeless charm and impeccable service, the Stamford Plaza provides a quintessential Brisbane experience that captures the essence of this dynamic city.
Join us as we take a closer look at the Stamford Plaza Brisbane. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, discover what makes this riverside gem one of Brisbane’s most beloved hotels.
We were paying guests at the hotel, so you can rest assured our review is completely unbiased.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.
STAMFORD PLAZA BRISBANE REVIEW
Below, we explore what makes the Stamford Plaza Brisbane a unique destination, from its beautifully appointed rooms and suites to its range of dining options that cater to every palate.
Location
With its central position on the corner of Edwards and Margaret Street, Stamford Plaza has a prime riverside location. It offers stunning views of the Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point Cliffs, and the vibrant cityscape.
From the hotel, it’s a 3 minute walk to the Botanic Gardens, 5 minutes to Queen Street Mall and 10 minutes to Central Train Station and the Riverside Ferry Terminal, from which you can easily get to Southbank Parklands, The Star or the Howard Smith Wharves. There is also a bus stop opposite the hotel.
Within a 5 minute walk from the hotel, you’ll find various restaurants serving diverse international cuisine.
Accommodation Options
Stamford Plaza Brisbane has 252 rooms of varying sizes, including 20 suites. Each room has a classic style decor and sleeps two people in a king size bed or two king single beds.
The rooms are a good size, especially for two people, and large windows maximise the river views – yes, every room has stunning river views.
Each carpeted room has a TV, a minibar, a safe, a kettle, soft chairs, a desk, and free Wi-Fi. The marble ensuite has a separate bath, a shower, and its own TV.
Unfortunately, standard rooms do not have a balcony. If you want a balcony, you must book one of the suites. Deluxe rooms are situated on the upper seven floors of the hotel, which feature the best river views.
Suites offer additional space with a large separate living room. The outstanding Stamford Suite has a baby grand piano, a freestanding bathtub in front of a picture window and a kitchen equipped with an oven, microwave, and fridge.
Some suites have balconies whilst others have spacious outdoor terraces, perfect for soaking up Riverfire or nighttime river views.
Rooms can be equipped with extra beds for children under 16 for an additional fee.
A buffet breakfast is available daily or can be included in the room rate.
Dining Options
Stamford Plaza Brisbane has two restaurants and is famous for its elegant high teas. It also offers 24-hour room service.
La Boca Bar and Grill
This authentic Argentinian restaurant blends traditional techniques with a modern twist. Its vibrant, hip vibe is perfect for couples or a night out with friends.
The chefs here use an asador (a traditional open wood-fired barbecue) to slow cook their meat and a parilla (a wood-fired grill) to give the food a delicious, smoky flavour.
Parilla options include twice-cooked pork ribs or a Rangers Valley wagyu steak. Asador options include a surf and turf platter or an 8 hour slow cooked lamb shoulder.
There is also an extensive wine list from which the waiting staff will happily recommend the best pairings. Sangria and cocktails are also available.
Opening Hours: Daily – lunch from 12 pm to 2 pm and dinner from 5.30 pm to 10 pm.
Kabuki Teppanyaki
This stylish restaurant offers a set teppanyaki menu straight off the grill as well as a traditional a la carte menu. You can choose to sit in front of the grill to watch the chefs at work or at normal restaurant tables.
Set menus include meat, vegetarian and seafood options, and all include kobachi, miso soup, vegetables, fried rice, plus a dessert.
A la carte choices include Tasmanian Salmon in Miso sake sauce and deep fried chicken with Nanban sauce.
Kids menus and family of 4 packages are also available.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday for dinner with two seatings 5.30 pm and 7.45 pm
Pav Bar
If you fancy something a little more low-key, head to the Pav Bar. It offers a contemporary bar with a colonial twist, plus a pretty outdoor courtyard for al fresco dining. If you’re looking for somewhere in the CBD to unwind or to catch some sport, this is the place to come.
The bar offers a ‘taste of Singapore menu’ featuring dim sum, noodles and nasi goreng. It also offers good value burgers, sandwiches, salads and other pub classics.
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday, 4 pm to late | Friday to Sunday, 11 am to late.
Stamford High Teas
The Stamford Plaza Brisbane offers an indulgent high tea experience that combines classic elegance with a touch of modern flair. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon with friends or a special celebration, it is a delightful way to enjoy a refined treat in the heart of the city.
Served in the stylish lobby lounge overlooking the Brisbane River, guests can savour a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, and an array of exquisite pastries and sweets, all accompanied by a curated choice of fine teas or a glass of champagne.
Currently, the Stamford is offering three distinct styles of high tea:
Spirit of Queensland High Tea
- Features locally grown fruit entremets, a Daintree barramundi, leek and dill quiche, Stanthorpe cider apple-and-raisin scones, and, of course, a lamington.
- Weekends at 11 am and 2:30 pm.
- From $79 per person.
Chocolate Afternoon Tea
- Features 17 different chocolate-infused desserts, baked scones, and an array of Argentinian savouries.
- Sundays at 2 pm
- $69 per adult | $35 per child (under 12) | Kids under 5 free
Wizardry High Tea
- During school holidays
Room Service
If you fancy a quiet night dining in your hotel room – then you’re in luck, as the Stamford Plaza Brisbane offers round the clock room service.
Facilities
Famous for its grand marble lobby and its sweeping staircases which hark back to an elegant bygone era, the Stamford Plaza also has a 24 front desk, a concierge service, a communal lounge and conference facilities.
Other notable facilities include the pool and gym.
The Pool
The outdoor heated pool is a good size and is surrounded by a sun terrace with sunbeds. Towels and a water dispenser are available and you can also order food to your sunbed.
The pool is open every day from 6 am – 9 pm.
The Gym
The gym is located on the 3rd floor and has sweeping views of the Brisbane River and Storey Bridge. It has a range of weights, a yoga area, and machines including treadmills, rowers, and steppers.
The gym is open 24 hours a day, every day, so you can work out at a time to suit you.
Parking
The hotel has on-site parking which costs $49 per day. Car parking cannot be pre-booked so it’s subject to availability and at peak times you may have to use public parking nearby.
The on-site parking is open 24 hours a day, every day.
Who is the Stamford Plaza Brisbane for?
The Stamford Plaza Brisbane is perfect for couples looking for a romantic break or for families or groups hoping for a luxurious but affordable getaway. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to stay in a central Brisbane location where everything you need is on your doorstep.
This is an easy to get to, high end Brisbane hotel with excellent amenities and fantastic river views. It is good for both drivers and travellers using public transport.
If you like sleek, contemporary lines and state-of-the-art decor, this is not the hotel for you. The Stamford Plaza has an old-fashioned, classic decor. Some guests may call it ‘dated,’ but I love its old-world, sophisticated charm, and I’m sure you will, too.
Book Now
We booked our stay through Booking.com as we like the flexibility this provides with their book now, pay later and the free cancellation.
If you’ve decided that the Stamford Plaza Brisbane is perfect for your Brisbane stay, click here to check the current pricing.
ENJOY BRISBANE’S STAMFORD PLAZA HOTEL
Hopefully, this review has helped you decide whether the Stamford Plaza Brisbane is for you.
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