This review provides everything you need to know about a stay at the luxurious 5 star Emporium Hotel South Bank.
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal and Yuggera people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the Emporium Hotel is located. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging, and recognise their continued spiritual and cultural connections to the Country. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land.
The Emporium Hotel South Bank is a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of Brisbane’s cultural precinct, South Bank. The hotel features 143 suites, offering a perfect blend of opulence, contemporary design, and world-class service.
Its prime location means you’re only steps from the city’s best dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions, as well as the iconic South Bank Parklands and Brisbane River.
Renowned for its sophisticated style and attention to detail, the Emporium Hotel offers an impressive range of amenities, including its show-stopping rooftop infinity pool and panoramic terrace, as well as a selection of acclaimed dining venues.
Every aspect of the property has been crafted to provide a truly indulgent guest experience, whether you’re staying for business, leisure, or a special occasion.
In this review, we share our experience at the Emporium Hotel South Bank so you can decide if it’s the right choice for your next Brisbane getaway.
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to our disclaimer here for more information.
Emporium Hotel South Bank Review
Below, we cover everything you need to know about staying at the Emporium Hotel South Bank, including its location, room types, dining and bar options, facilities, and more.
Location
Emporium Hotel South Bank boasts a prime position in Brisbane’s vibrant cultural heart, situated along Grey Street, with the Brisbane River and South Bank Parklands just steps away.
From the hotel, you can easily stroll to world-class attractions such as QAGOMA (1.4km), the Queensland Museum (1.1km), QPAC (750m), and the Wheel of Brisbane (850m), as well as Streets Beach (400m) for a relaxed swim or riverside picnic.
You’re surrounded by an impressive range of dining options, from casual eateries to acclaimed fine-dining restaurants, all within a few minutes’ walk.
For those looking to explore further afield, the South Bank train station is just a short walk away (100m), while the nearby South Bank ferry terminal (700m) offers a scenic route to the CBD, Howard Smith Wharves, and other riverfront destinations.
This location is ideal for travellers wanting to immerse themselves in Brisbane’s cultural, culinary, and entertainment scene while enjoying the convenience of having everything within easy reach of a luxurious base.
Accommodation Options
Every room at Emporium Hotel South Bank is designed with exceptional attention to detail and luxury at its core.
Expect exquisite furnishings, including a Sealy Knightsbridge Ultra Plush mattress (in king or twin configuration), a Bose sound system, a 55-inch mirrored television framed in bronze, a handcrafted bronze bar with Eurocave wine fridge, locally sourced minibar treats, spacious silk wardrobes, plush lounges, a work desk, and the latest in-room automation.
Ensuites feature white marble double vanities, a glass-enclosed monsoon shower, premium amenities, and a privacy switch-activated glass door.
Rooms also have the option to accommodate a third guest on a rollaway bed.
Here’s a breakdown of the room options:
Suites
Emporium Hotel South Bank offers a range of 40 sqm suites, each blending contemporary luxury with high-end finishes.
Options within the suites include the standard Vista King or the Urban Vista King, which offers elevated views across the West End and Mount Coot-tha.
The River City King/Twin features a Juliette balcony overlooking South Bank and the river, as well as a spa bath in king rooms.
The Premium River City King takes this experience to the next level with even higher-floor positioning and premium inclusions. This is the room we stayed in, and we absolutely loved it—couldn’t fault a thing. Truly impressive luxury with high-end finishes.
For guests with mobility needs, the Accessible Suite offers the same opulent features with a thoughtfully adapted layout.
Poolside Cabana Suite
The Poolside Cabana Suites provide a unique resort-style experience on the 21st floor, just metres from the 23m infinity-edge rooftop pool. Each unit has direct pool deck access, a front patio with seating, and panoramic views of the river and city.
The Poolside Cabana Suites offer 50 sqm of expansive space, high ceilings, and luxurious finishes. In addition to the standard suite features, these suites include a handmade bronze bar with seating for three, a full-bottle Eurocave wine fridge, a cocktail-making kit and a private balcony with sweeping views of the Brisbane River and city skyline.
All suites feature elegant en-suite bathrooms with a freestanding bath overlooking the city/river, double marble showers with handheld and rain shower heads, twin vanities, and a separate toilet compartment.
Exquisite and Emporium Suites
Located on the hotel’s highest floors, these spacious premier suites combine opulent finishes, soaring 2.5 m ceilings, and breathtaking views over the Brisbane River and city skyline from a private balcony.
The Exquisite Suite (65 sqm) features a large makeup vanity with an oversized LED-lit mirror and a unique tall storage space designed for hanging formal gowns or wedding dresses, making it an ideal choice for special occasions.
The Emporium Suite offers an even larger floor plan at 70 sqm, providing extra space to relax and entertain.
Both suites boast indulgent marble en-suite bathrooms with a freestanding bath overlooking the river or city, a double marble shower featuring both handheld and rain shower heads, twin vanities, and a separate toilet compartment.
Frangipani Suite
At 120 sqm, the Frangipani Suite is the ultimate residential-style retreat, offering an unparalleled level of luxury and space.
This premier suite features a formal entry, an elegant living room, a separate karaoke/media room for endless entertainment, and a dedicated study for business travellers.
Lavish touches abound, with highlights including a 3 m coffered ceiling, a full-size bar, a double-sided fireplace, and a balcony offering sweeping views of South Bank Parklands, the Brisbane River, and the city skyline.
Guests enjoy exclusive inclusions, including daily breakfast for two, complimentary valet parking for one vehicle, and a $50 food and beverage credit.
An interconnecting River City King Suite can be booked to expand the space to an impressive 190 sqm.
Dining and Bars
Dining at Emporium Hotel South Bank is an experience in itself, offering a variety of venues that range from relaxed café breakfasts to elegant rooftop cocktails and fine dining.
Belle Époque
With mosaic floors, bronze accents, and chic bistro furnishings, Belle Époque captures the elegance of a Parisian café. Perfect for a leisurely morning coffee, a stylish brunch, or a special celebration.
Morning at Belle Époque begins with beautifully presented dishes made from seasonal, locally sourced produce. The menu blends French classics with a contemporary twist—think flaky pastries, rich eggs benedict, and fresh fruit plates—paired perfectly with barista coffee or a glass of Champagne.
A highlight of Belle Époque is its indulgent high tea. Served on tiered stands, it features a curated mix of savoury bites, delicate pastries, and handcrafted sweets, all accompanied by a wide selection of teas.
Guests often praise the exquisite presentation and flavours, noting it as one of Brisbane’s best high tea experiences. It’s a favourite for celebrations, special occasions, or simply as an afternoon treat.
Belle Époque is open daily from 6 am on weekdays and 6:30 am on weekends until 3 pm.
FIRMA Italian
Led by Lombardy-born Chef Alba Rizzo, FIRMA Italian brings regional Italian cooking to the Emporium Hotel.
FIRMA blends rustic trattoria classics—think risotto Milanese, slow-cooked ossobuco, agnolotti, and handmade pastas—with high-end touches, such as a tiramisu trolley and an aperitivo cart. Seasonal Queensland produce and specialty import ingredients shine throughout the menu.
The ambience is elegantly relaxed and features a cozy, private “Nonna’s Table” for intimate group dining, situated beside a stunning 150-year-old stained-glass window.
FIRMA pairs its dishes with exclusive Italian, many of which are unavailable elsewhere in Australia.
We didn’t dine here this time, however I’ve experienced private dining here before and loved it—great service and beautifully executed dishes.
FIRMA is open daily for dinner from 5.30 pm to 9 pm.
The Reserve Wine Bar
Located in the hotel lobby, The Reserve Wine Bar blends old-world elegance with modern sophistication. Its plush décor, backlit onyx bar, and striking wine wall set the tone for a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.
Home to more than 3,000 wines by the bottle, the bar also offers up to 50 wines by the glass using the Coravin system, plus rotating selections from the Enomatic dispenser.
Alongside the comprehensive wine list, there’s a tasty line-up of cheese boards, breads, and pizzas—basically all the good stuff that goes perfectly with a glass in hand—as well as a lovely selection of desserts (see the key lime tart above—divine!).
They also offer wine experiences, which include guided tastings with a sommelier, cocktail masterclasses, and seasonal high teas paired with matching wines.
Live jazz on Saturdays from 6.30 pm adds to the charm, and guests can purchase their favourite bottles through the adjacent Reserve Cellar.
The Reserve Wine Bar is open daily from 10.30 am to late.
The Terrace
Perched atop Emporium Hotel, The Terrace pairs stylish rooftop vibes with sweeping 180-degree views—from South Bank Parklands across the Brisbane River and out towards Moreton Island.
Its lush design features living green walls, plush leather seating, a striking backlit onyx bar, and a retractable glass ceiling for year-round comfort.
The menu features creative share plates that lean towards contemporary Asian and Australian cuisine, paired with a standout cocktail list that showcases signature creations and a carefully curated wine selection.
The Terrace is the place to be at the Emporium—I’ve been numerous times and it never disappoints. This visit, we settled in for sunset drinks and a few dishes to share (all very good), then came back for breakfast—hands down the best avo on toast I’ve ever had.
Our breakfast was included, but if you’re paying, $35 per person for a breakfast dish of your choice plus a hot beverage and juice, it’s an absolute bargain.
From weekend sunrise breakfasts to sunset cocktails and late-night socialising, The Terrace delivers every time.
The Terrace is open daily from 11 am on weekdays and 6.30 am on weekends to late.
In Room Dining
In addition to its fabulous restaurants and bar, the Emporium Hotel South Bank offers round-the-clock in-room dining—perfect for early arrivals or late-night cravings.
Start your day right with fresh Queensland fruit, honey harvested from the hotel rooftop, free-range eggs, and a selection of juices. Comfort favourites like Coco Pops or cornflakes are also on offer.
Lunch, dinner, and dessert options present elevated, locally inspired dishes and a children’s menu keeps younger guests happily catered for.
In addition to in room dining, each room features an in-room EuroCave wine fridge stocked with a bespoke selection of local and imported wines—perfect for a night in. The standard minibar is well-stocked too, featuring locally sourced snacks, fresh milk, and three beer options.
Facilities
The Emporium Hotel South Bank offers a selection of leisure facilities, including a rooftop pool, a fully equipped gym, and a tranquil day spa, ensuring guests can relax or stay active during their stay. Further details are below.
Rooftop Pool
I said The Terrace was the place to be—but I should’ve saved that line for the rooftop pool. In my book, it’s the best pool in Brisbane, and honestly, it’s worth checking into the Emporium just to swim here.
Perched on level 21, the stunning 23 m infinity-edge pool serves up sweeping views over South Bank, the river and the city skyline. Lounging poolside with a cocktail in hand is peak Brisbane luxury. You’ll also find towels and bottled water by the pool, plus a handy QR code so you can order drinks delivered straight to your sun lounger.
Heated to a comfortable 28 °C, the pool is open year-round from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm and is exclusively for hotel guests.
Gym
Stay active in the compact yet fully outfitted gym. It features cardio equipment, free weights, and multi-function machines—ideal for getting in a quick workout, regardless of your schedule.
Located on level 21, the gym offers fabulous views across Mount Coot-tha. Towels and bottles of water are also provided.
Of course, I didn’t use the gym, but took the obligatory photograph!
The gym is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Sauna and Steam Room
Located just steps from the rooftop pool, the sauna and steam rooms offer both wet and dry heat experiences to help you relax and rejuvenate.
For a refreshing contrast, the adjacent cold plunge pool is kept at 12 °C, perfect for invigorating the senses.
The sauna and steam room are open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm.
The Healing Stone Day Spa
Located on the 21st floor, The Healing Stone offers Japanese-style wellness treatments including ganbanyoku, shiatsu, oil massage, facial acupoint therapy, and reflexology, all delivered with warmth and respect.
While I didn’t have a treatment on this visit, I did poke my head in—and it smelt divine. The space felt serene and beautifully inviting.
To book, call 07 2104 2611 or email tenku@healingstone.com.au
Parking
Valet parking is available for hotel guests at $65 per night, with multiple entry and exit privileges until 5:00 pm on the day of departure.
Day parking is also offered for casual visitors, with dining discounts at select venues.
Hotel driveway entrance: 35 Tribune Street, South Brisbane.
Additional paid public parking is located nearby.
Who is the Emporium Hotel for?
The Emporium Hotel in South Bank is perfectly suited to travellers seeking a luxurious stay in one of Brisbane’s most vibrant precincts. Its prime location places guests just steps from the South Bank Parklands, world-class dining, and cultural attractions, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a central base without compromising on style or comfort.
As a couple staying on a Friday night, we just loved it—we felt truly pampered and really well looked after. It was a wonderful experience and one I’d absolutely recommend.
Like us, no doubt couples will find it an exceptional choice for a romantic staycation, with opulent suites, stunning river views, a rooftop infinity pool, and indulgent touches like in-room spa baths and private balconies.
It’s also well suited to visitors looking for a premium experience while exploring Brisbane—whether you’re in town for events, sightseeing, or simply relaxing in five-star surrounds.
The range of suites caters to both leisure and business travellers, featuring spacious work areas, high-end finishes, and wellness amenities such as a sauna, steam room, and spa.
Food lovers will appreciate the on-site dining options, from elegant French-inspired patisserie breakfasts at Belle Époque to cocktails at The Terrace or wine tastings at The Reserve.
Whether for a special occasion, a luxury escape, or a convenient city break, the Emporium delivers an indulgent yet welcoming experience.
Book Now
If all this talk of luxury has you saying “sign me up,” check availability and current rates on Booking.com, Expedia or the hotel’s official site for flexible wellness, romance, or multi-night packages.
Early booking is recommended for rooftop pool access and high-demand suites.
Enjoy Emporium Hotel South Bank
It’s probably obvious by now, but we thoroughly loved and enjoyed our stay—the attention to detail is next-level. I arrived with high expectations, and I’m pleased to say the Emporium did not disappoint—not just in the beautiful, physical spaces, but in the people. The staff and service were brilliant, and we felt genuinely looked after throughout.
If you’re after a sophisticated Brisbane retreat—one that effortlessly combines luxe comfort, thoughtful design, cultural immersion and rooftop glamour—Emporium Hotel South Bank is a stellar choice.
If you’re heading to Brisbane, don’t forget to join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community to ask questions, get local tips, or help plan your perfect stay!
While you’re in Brisbane, you might also enjoy these guides: