Sizzle in Style
There’s something undoubtedly special about eating outdoors. Aussies are renowned for their love of barbecues, and lucky for us Brisbanites we are spoilt for choice on spots to sizzle. Here are a few of my favourite locations that provide a place to cook up a storm in the great outdoors.
Roma Parklands
Set across sprawling hillside, Roma Parklands has it all—water features that provide a meditative backdrop of sound, flower gardens that make you feel like you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole and ended up in wonderland, and expansive lawns to soak up the sun. Throw down a blanket and fry away as you use one of the fifteen Barbecues on offer. The park is divided into pockets with unique offerings, meaning no barbecue lover will be hard pressed to find their idyllic location.
Lakeside Lawn and Celebration Lawn are set on the “ground level” of the park and are where the bulk of the barbecues are located. Both areas boast picturesque water features and spots to kick back under the shade. These lawns are also licensed, so crack open your fave bevy and enjoy the scenery. If you prefer secluded areas, then Roma Parkland’s Sunset Glade is for you. Perched at the top of the parklands, this spot is nestled away and private with an expansive view across the parklands. There is one barbecue on offer here so if this spot sounds like it’s tailored for you then be sure to snag it early.
Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Photo credit: Delila Bevan Zavadsky
If sweeping views are your thing, then Kangaroo Point Cliffs is the place to be. Let’s face it, who doesn’t enjoy dining with a view? And even better, this view doesn’t have a price tag on it! As the sun begins to set, enjoy watching the light dance on the surface of the river creating an “ahh-worthy” glimmer.
This precinct is divided into Upper River Terrace and Lower River Terrace. If you’re wanting to sit alongside the river, gazing up at the cliffs, then choose one of the many barbecue spots on the Lower River Terrace. For those magical city views, Upper River Terrace is the place to be. To access this area, you can park alongside the boardwalk and locate one of the many barbecue spots on offer. If you are wanting to burn off some calories or simply enjoy a promenade, take the stairs from the Lower River Terrace to the top. The breathtaking views make it hard to notice that you’re exercising.
New Farm Park
Photo credit: Delila Bevan Zavadsky
As one of Brisbane’s top destinations for a barbecue, New Farm Park is one to not be missed. With plenty of shade and unrivalled river views, these barbecue spots are relaxed and atmospheric. Head there in spring to enjoy the rose gardens in full bloom giving the park a classic fairy-tale feel and sweet perfumed air.
New Farm Park makes for a fantastic family day out, offering an abundance to see and do. Kids will be kept entertained for hours with the iconic fig-tree playground: a sprawling treehouse structured through ageing fig trees. There are several barbecue spots dotted around the park. For shaded spots, chose one of the barbecues set alongside the river under the canopy of trees. With its numerous pathways and facilities, New Farm Park is easily accessible for all. Enjoy a lazy day out, watch the boats bobbing by on the river, and explore the many facets of this picturesque parkland. As the sun begins to set, head over to the historic Brisbane Powerhouse neighbouring the park to catch an art exhibit, live performance, or simply for a sundown drink.
South Bank Parklands
With a lively, buzzing atmosphere, South Bank Parklands provides a place for those wanting a barbecue amidst the action. Settle back and people watch to your heart’s content. Watch tourists milling past admiring the river views, locals out exercising, and, if you’re lucky, catch a busker or two. Beat the heat, with a dip in South Bank pool and a sunbake on the sand. Kids will have no shortage of fun with the playgrounds and interactive water features throughout the precinct.
There are many sheltered barbecues set alongside the pathway which runs adjacent to the river. In saying that, South Bank is a popular spot, so ensure you get there early to beat the crowds! Feeling lazy with the cooking? Fear not: grab some take-away from the many joints on offer around Southbank and eat it in style on the grass.
Shorncliffe
Craving the feeling of sand beneath your toes but wanting to keep things close to home? For those willing to venture a little from the CBD, Shorncliffe is the ultimate beachy barbeque destination. Take a walk down the jetty to experience the expansiveness of the blue sea on both sides, breathe in the salty breeze, and set up on the grassy bank leading down to the sand.
One of my personal favourite barbecue spots is Lower Moora park and beach. This charming bay is located at the bottom of the Shorncliffe cliffs and nearby the historical jetty. There are several barbecues on offer with modern picnic shelters. Alternatively, there is ample space to get out the picnic rug and sprawl under the shaded cotton trees. Moora Park’s fantastic-fort like playground is one for the kid’s bucket list, providing space to climb, dig in the sand and explore. Even your furry friend is welcome at this picnic spot ensuring a fun day out for the whole family. There’s something terrifically nostalgic about fish and chips on the beach. Just a short stroll away is ‘Café on the Park’ where you can satisfy your fried cravings.
Nature is truly the best restaurant and with Brisbane’s many barbecue spots on offer, this summer is the ideal time to try out her finest eateries.