Wanting to make the most out of your visit to The Star Brisbane at Queen’s Wharf? This guide covers everything you need to know about this brand new exciting destination in Brisbane City!
The Queensland Travel Guide acknowledges the Turrbal people, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which The Star Brisbane (Meeanjin) 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.
Welcome to the ultimate guide to The Star Brisbane at Queen’s Wharf, the city’s newest and most exciting destination! The Star Brisbane is part of the state-of-the-art precinct set to transform Brisbane’s riverside, captivating both locals and visitors alike.
The first phase of the precinct is now open, with the remainder to open throughout the year. Once fully operational, Queen’s Wharf will feature 1,000 premium hotel rooms, restaurants and bars, top-tier entertainment, luxury shopping experiences, public artworks, and one of the country’s most remarkable collections of heritage treasures.
Additionally, it will feature an expansive public space equivalent to 12 football fields right in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD.
The centre of this 12-hectare entertainment precinct is the Star Brisbane, home to a range of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options and one of the precinct’s five-star hotels.
Whether you’re considering a leisurely day out, an evening of fine dining, or a weekend staycation at The Star Brisbane, this guide is a great place to start. It includes all the information you need regarding what’s on offer at The Star, from the must-visit bars and restaurants to insider tips on how to make the most of your visit.
So, let’s dive in and explore all the excitement this brand-new Brisbane landmark offers!
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Dining Precincts
In addition to some fantastic restaurants and bars, The Star has spectacular dining precincts with fabulous views.
Sky Deck
The Sky Deck is a must see for anyone visiting The Star. Soaring 100 metres above the Brisbane River, from here visitors have a fantastic view across the river towards Southbank.
Along with fantastic views, the Sky Deck offers visitors the chance to dine under the open sky. Three restaurants, Cicada Blu, Aloria, and Babblers, are here.
The Terrace Dining
Located on level four, The Terrace Dining will house various restaurants, including Cucina Regina, Black Hide Steak & Seafood, Azteca, Lúc Lắc, Pompette and an ice creamery. It is expected that these restaurants will open from September 2024.
The Terrace links directly to the Southbank Parklands via the Neville Bonner pedestrian bridge.
Dining Options
The Star Brisbane is set to have some fabulous bars and restaurants, all of which will open over time – we will update this list as they do.
Sokyo
Under the guidance of Chef Alex Yu, Sokyo is known for its mastery of traditional Japanese cooking techniques, delivering unexpected twists that elevate the dining experience. This adds an artistic and theatrical element to the dining experience while using Queensland’s finest produce, bringing a modern, local touch to each dish.
Signature dishes like the Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice are complemented by new, enticing flavours, such as truffle-infused lobster grilled over Japanese charcoal. A comprehensive selection of Japanese sakes and whiskies, beers, shochu cocktails, wine, Champagne, and non-alcoholic options further enhances the dining experience.
Sokyo is located within The Star Grand Lobby on Level 2.
Click here for the menu and here for the dessert, kids and vegetarian menus.
Food Quarter
Located on Level 5 within the Casino and without any reservation required, the Food Quarter is perfect for a laid-back lunch or a late-night bite.
Focusing on fresh food and fast service, this café-style venue offers an array of flavours, from tempting Western dishes to Asian delights, all complemented by a selection of irresistible homemade desserts and crave-worthy cakes.
Please note that as Food Quarter is located within the Casino, all guests must be 18 years or over.
Fat Noodle
Originally launched over a decade ago at Treasury Brisbane, Fat Noodle now delivers an elevated dining experience at The Star Brisbane under the expert guidance of celebrity chef Luke Nguyen. Inspired by Southeast Asia’s vibrant street food culture, Nguyen presents traditional family recipes reinterpreted with the finest Australian produce.
Fat Noodle at The Star Brisbane continues to serve the beloved dishes that have made it a favourite, including the legendary 20-hour Fat Pho Noodles and a fiery laksa, while introducing exciting new flavours.
This reimagined venue promises to offer a fresh take on the dishes Brisbane has grown to love, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Fat Noodle is located on Level 5, within the Casino, so all guests must be 18 years or over.
Black Hide Steak & Seafood
Positioned on The Terrace, Black Hide Steak & Seafood by Gambaro will specialise in dishes using only the highest-quality local ingredients. Black Hide guests will indulge in award-winning steak and seafood dishes; all served in an atmosphere that combines superior dining with personable service.
The restaurant’s menu will feature fresh, Queensland-sourced seafood to complement its renowned selection of steaks and mains. The menu will be expanded, including beloved classics while introducing new flavours and culinary delights.
Additionally, Black Hide will offer a cocktail lounge bar where guests can enjoy small plates while taking in panoramic views of the Brisbane River.
Cucina Regina
Located on The Terrace, Cucina Regina promises an elevated, authentic Italian dining experience that transforms simple, familiar dishes into something truly sensational and satisfying.
The restaurant offers a delightful mix of antipasto, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pasta, all served in a laid-back, character-filled setting that combines exceptional views with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Seasonal ingredients take centre stage in dishes like fresh figs drizzled with balsamic reduction and house-made focaccia, perfectly studded with garlic confit.
One of the standout features at Cucina Regina will be the theatrical element brought to the dining experience, with dishes finished tableside and dessert trolleys showcasing Italian classics like delicate, trembling pannacotta.
The drinks menu features Italian wine varietals alongside expertly crafted cocktails. Guests can indulge in a perfectly balanced Amaro Sour, the timeless elegance of a Negroni, or a zesty Limoncello spritz, all meticulously prepared to complement the rich flavours of the cuisine.
Opening September 2024
Lúc Lắc
Lúc Lắc is set to be a vibrant and fun-loving Southeast Asian eatery and bar, bringing flavours of Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore to The Terrace. The menu will feature everything from delicious snacks and fragrant salads to wok-tossed dishes, slow-braised clay-pot curries, grilled meats, and seafood, ending with playful desserts.
There will be a lively open kitchen where the action happens, allowing guests to watch as their meals are prepared with the freshest local Queensland produce, including Fraser Isle spanner crab, King River Wagyu, and Moreton Bay bugs.
Signature dishes like Kampot peppered beef, crispy snail and pork spring rolls, spotted blue groper, and Vietnamese-style baby goat yellow curry highlight the vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia.
After dinner, the spectacular jade onyx stone bar beckons with its classic cocktails infused with Asian ingredients, each served with eye-catching theatrics in bespoke glassware. Traditional Asian beers and international wines complement the bold and diverse drink selection.
As the night progresses, a DJ keeps the lively atmosphere going, making Lúc Lắc the perfect spot to soak up the spirited vibes.
Opening September 2024
Dark Shepherd
With Michael Tassis, the visionary behind successful Greek restaurants Opa Bar + Mezze and Yamas Greek + Drink, at the helm, Dark Shepherd is set to bring a fresh yet authentic Mediterranean-inspired experience to Brisbane.
Dark Shepherd is set to redefine Mediterranean dining by offering an unexpected interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine that blends traditional and modern elements. Focusing on succulent lamb, the menu also highlights the freshest seafood and seasonal produce, all prepared with exquisite simplicity using traditional woodfire grilling methods.
Dark Shepherd’s dishes are designed for sharing, inviting diners to come together and savour a rich tapestry of flavours.
Whether you dine in the intimate sunken dining area, celebrate a special occasion in the private dining room, or enjoy the theatrical experience at the bar, Dark Shepherd promises a sensory journey filled with aromatic delights at every turn.
Dark Shepherd will be located on The Terrace.
Opening September 2024
Pompette
Located on The Terrace, Pompette is set to bring a taste of France without the pomp or pretension. The Pompette menu offers modern interpretations of French classics, including Escargot, Steak au Poivre, and other delicious dishes.
Pompette perfectly blends European sophistication with a laid-back vibe, offering a stylish and approachable dining experience. The Parisian-inspired interiors welcome you into a stunning dining space with a champagne and oyster bar, three private dining rooms, and a leafy alfresco area.
Opening September 2024
Azteca
Azteca is set to be a vibrant dining venue that brings the rich flavours of Latin America to The Terrace with a creative touch of Asian fusion. Azteca promises an innovative and exceptional dining experience, complete with opulent mosaic walls and captivating Aztec artwork.
Head Chef Zachary Sykes will lead his culinary team in crafting a bespoke menu that perfectly blends Asian spices with Latin American influences. A carefully curated cocktail selection featuring Latin American spirits will complement the flavourful dishes, ensuring a truly immersive dining experience.
The 126-seat venue is intricately designed with live greenery, custom brass tables, and semi-private circular pods. Azteca will also feature a secret Private Dining Room accessed through a stunning handcrafted Aztec wooden door. This intimate space, designed for 14 guests, is adorned with custom Latin American ceramics.
Opening September 2024
Aloria
Located on the iconic Sky Deck, Aloria is a stunning dining destination where European elegance seamlessly blends with Australian charm.
Aloria stands out with its focus on dry-aged beef and world-class Queensland seafood, prepared using time-honored woodfire and grill techniques. The open kitchen adds depth to every dish, allowing diners to witness the artistry behind the seasonal menu that celebrates the freshest produce from Australia’s top growers.
Aloria’s “Cellar in the Sky” is an extraordinary wine collection that showcases the city’s finest selections, complemented by a dedicated Martini menu.
In addition to its exceptional cuisine and drinks, Aloria provides an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for savouring Queensland’s breathtaking sunsets.
To open later this year.
Babblers
Located on the eastern end of the Sky Deck, Babblers is a vibrant venue set to become a bustling hub, attracting those searching for a more laid-back, social dining experience.
The menu at Babblers is all about shareable crowd-pleasers. It features perfectly imperfect handcrafted flatbreads topped with seasonal produce alongside Australian craft beers and wines.
Cicada Blu
Taking centre stage on Sky Deck, Cicada Blu is a captivating day-to-night destination known for its breathtaking views, vibrant atmosphere and pulsating entertainment.
This hotspot will lure locals and travellers with its exotic elixirs and bold botanical infusions, making it the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks, post-dinner gatherings or simply toast to the high life.
As evening falls, Cicada Blu’s enigmatic lighting installation will pulse and glow, inspired by Brisbane’s ever-changing cloud formations and electrifying summer storms, creating a truly immersive experience.
Bars
In addition to some great places to eat, The Star Brisbane also has some great bars.
Sports Bar
Located on level 5 within the Casino, alongside the LiveWire, the Sports Bar is set to become the city’s premier destination for experiencing the world’s biggest matches, races, and games.
This spectacular venue is equipped with over 100 sqm of mega LED screens and stadium-like surround sound, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action. Plus, it’s positioned high above the Brisbane River and wrapped with floor-to-ceiling glass for breathtaking views.
The Sports Bar also features three exclusive VIP booths, each large enough to seat an entire footy team, providing the ultimate game-day experience.
Cherry
Located on level 5 within the Casino, Cherry is set to become the ultimate destination for those seeking a night out. This cocktail bar features a lavish 360-degree bar and a mix of cool cocktails and chilled beats, making it the perfect venue for meeting up with friends or celebrating special occasions.
LiveWire
Positioned alongside the Sports Bar, LiveWire offers stunning river views and features a 19-metre-long bar, an expansive dance floor, comfortable lounges, and booth packages for those looking to make their night even more special.
Entertainment and Events
Below is a brief overview of all the entertainment available at The Star Brisbane.
Casino
Replacing Brisbane’s Treasury Casino, The Star Casino introduces a world-class gaming centre. This expansive new venue will operate 24/7 and offer guests the latest games. It features an open-plan casino floor with high ceilings, abundant natural light, and expansive balconies overlooking the Brisbane River and the CBD.
For premium members, exclusive access is granted to Oasis and Sovereign, Star’s premium gaming rooms. These luxurious spaces offer breathtaking views, private dining, and lavish interiors.
LiveWire
LiveWire, located on Level 5 within the casino, is a sleek venue that hosts a dynamic lineup of music, comedy, and other performances, highlighting Brisbane’s homegrown talent. Whether you’re in the mood for classic anthems that bring back fond memories or keen to discover the city’s brightest stars, this venue has something for everyone.
Leisure Deck
Located on Level 7, the Leisure Deck is a 12,000 sqm open-air public space perched 35 meters above street level, nestled between the resort’s four towers.
This expansive area, equivalent to the size of two football fields, offers a unique oasis in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD. Free and open to the public, the Leisure Deck promises fun and engaging experiences for everyone.
Once complete, this impressive mixed-use space will feature a gymnasium, additional food and beverage outlets, and more.
Event Centre
For those considering holding an event, consider the Star’s Event Centre. With 1440 seats, this event space is set to be Brisbane’s largest hotel ballroom.
This cutting-edge event centre features a 20-metre-long bar that opens onto an outdoor terrace with views of the Story Bridge. The venue offers the perfect setting for sit-down gala dinners, cocktail soirées, rooftop product launches, large-scale exhibitions, and trade shows. The venue has been purposefully designed to accommodate events of all sizes.
The Star’s Event Centre will commence taking bookings from early September.
Accommodation – The Star Grand
With so much to see and do at The Star Brisbane, you will want to book yourself into The Star Grand and make a weekend of it. Overlooking the Brisbane River, Brisbane’s newest hotel is in the city’s centre, providing easy access to major attractions and transport options.
The Star is a short walk from South Bank Parklands, the Queensland Art Gallery, and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. Public transport options are plentiful, with bus and train stations within easy reach, making it simple to explore the city.
This five-star hotel offers 340 luxurious rooms, including 276 standard king rooms with river or city views. All rooms feature premium linen, dual rain showerheads, and in-room technology, which allows guests to customise lighting, drapery, and temperature.
For those needing more space, there are also 56 open-plan River and City Suites and four Skyline City Suites. These suites range between 75 and 113 sqm and feature an open-plan living area, king bed, and gorgeous bathroom with a freestanding bathtub.
Consider booking one of the four Skyline Penthouse Suites for the ultimate Brisbane stay. The penthouses feature an open-plan lounge and dining area, a kitchenette with a butler’s pantry and separate staff entrances. Plus, they have two private guest areas, each with an ensuite, including bathtubs with views.
In terms of facilities, the Star offers three infinity pools, a pool bar, a steam room, a sauna, and a gym, although most of these facilities will open later in the year.
For guests looking for luxurious accommodation while staying in Brisbane, you really can’t beat the brand new Star Grand Hotel. You’ll be one of the very first guests to stay at this five-star hotel, which is sure to become one of Brisbane’s iconic landmarks.
Getting There
Located in the centre of Brisbane’s CBD, it’s super easy to get to The Star from all over Brisbane.
Neville Booner Bridge
Named in honour of Australia’s first Indigenous parliamentarian, the Neville Bonner pedestrian bridge links The Star via The Terrace with the Southbank Parklands, making it perfect for those staying in South Bank.
Public Transport
In terms of public transport, getting to The Star couldn’t be easier. You’ve got the option of taking a train, bus or ferry.
Both South Brisbane and Central Station are a 15 minute walk away, or you’re surrounded by ferry terminals with North Quay, South Bank and QUT terminals just a short walk away.
There are plenty of bus stops around the city, too, including the free City Loop Bus, which stops on George Street just steps from The Star.
Check the Translink website to plan your trip.
Car / Parking
For those arriving by car, there is a drop off point via William Street.
There is also parking on site, or you can park nearby at Uptown (the old Myer Centre), which is just a 5-minute walk from there.
ENJOY THE STAR BRISBANE!
Hopefully, this guide has helped you get excited about visiting The Star Brisbane.
Whether staying in Brisbane for one night or a few days, I highly recommend you check out our guide to Brisbane, which provides links to everything you need to know to help you plan your trip.
I’d also recommend you join our free Queensland Travel Guide Facebook community, where you can get all your questions answered and find even more great trip suggestions.
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