Sometimes, there’s simply no curbing a craving for a bowl of silky pasta, or a slice of Roman-style pizza. Fortunately, Brisbane has no shortage of Italian restaurants ready to answer the call – no passport required – from tiny trattorias to polished dining rooms that make you forget you’re thousands of kilometres from Italy.
As a former Brisbane local and connoisseur of good Italian food, my credentials in this area are well proven. My list spans well-known classics like Beccofino in Teneriffe (I am forever on the hunt for a duck ragu that lives up to this one), to smaller establishments like Ripiena, which is an unpretentious, pasta-only operation in Fortitude Valley.
Whether you’re craving a wood-fired pizza, a cosy weeknight dinner or a long lunch fuelled by good (Italian) wine, these are the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane to book now.
1. Beccofino (Teneriffe)
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
A Brisbane institution for good reason, Beccofino has been drawing loyal diners to Teneriffe – tucked just behind the river on Vernon Terrace – for years with its reliably excellent Italian fare. Handmade pasta (as mentioned, the duck ragu is second-to-none, but their rotating specials are always stellar if that’s not your style), wood-fired pizzas and an Italian-first wine list make it just as suited to casual weeknight takeway as a celebration with friends.
2. Barchetta (Rosalie)
Open: Monday – Sunday
This is a neighbourhood classic, putting a contemporary spin on comforting Puglian classics. The menu shifts with the seasons, showcasing quality local produce alongside handmade pasta. Highlights include the Bruschetta (which comes loaded with mortadella, stracciatella, and pesto) and the Fusilli alla Vodka. Simple but so good.
3. 1889 Enoteca (Woolloongabba)
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
Housed inside a heritage-listed wool store in Woolloongabba, 1889 Enoteca launched back in 2008, and his been running strong for nearly 20 years since. They specialis in the rich, comforting flavours of Rome. Expect classics like cacio e pepe, carbonara and slow-cooked ragù alongside an extensive Italian wine list to complement every dish.
4. Ripiena (Fortitude Valley)
Open: Wednesday – Sunday
If pasta is your thing, Ripiena belongs firmly at the top of your list. The Fortitude Valley restaurant has built its reputation on beautifully crafted pasta, alongside thoughtfully selected wines. The tortellini en brodo is like a hug in a bowl.
5. Bianca (New Farm)
Open: Monday – Sunday
One of the newer spots on this list, but one that has become one of Brisbane’s most sought-after bookings nonetheless. Bianca (by the team at Anyday) combines sleek interiors with a contemporary menu. Fresh pasta, premium local seafood and perfectly cooked steaks all feature, making it an easy choice whether you’re dropping in for lunch or settling in for a long dinner. And upstairs is a beautiful, semi-outdoor private dining room, which is great for special occasions.
6. Otto Ristorante (South Brisbane)
Open: Wednesday – Sunday
It’s hard to compete with Otto’s riverfront setting, yes, but the food is also worth mentioning. The menu celebrates Italian cooking through fresh Queensland produce, with seafood, handmade pasta and elegant desserts taking centre stage. It’s refined, but still highly comforting.
7. La Lupa (West End)
Open: Monday – Sunday (closed Tuesdays)
La Lupa keeps things simple, but in the best way. Tucked away in West End, what gets me really excited here is the wood-fired pizzas, which are best enjoyed alongside a glass of something form the thoughtful wine list. The atmosphere is fittingly relaxed, making it a reliable pick whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeaway for the park.
8. Julia Pizzeria (South Brisbane)
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
Over in South Brisbane, Julius Pizzeria has earned its reputation with perfectly-done pizzas, house-made pasta and a lively atmosphere. It’s by the same team behind Beccofnio, if you needed further convincing. They also set aside plenty of walk-in spots, so you can (usually) get by without a booking.
9. Elementi (Paddington)
Open: Thursday – Monday
Elementi celebrates traditional Italian cooking techniques through handmade pasta, slow-fermented doughs and an ever-changing menu. One thing that doesn’t change, however, is that their Monday-night lasagna special is the perfect cure for any start-of-the-week blues.
10. Pilloni (West End)
Open: Wednesday – Sunday
For a taste of Sardinia without leaving Brisbane, Pilloni is hard to beat. The family-run restaurant showcases regional dishes that are difficult to find elsewhere in the city, from handmade pasta to slow-cooked meats and seafood. No notes.
11. Rosmarino and Etna (Newstead)
Open (Rosmarino): Tuesday – Saturday
Open (Etna): Wednesday – Saturday
Run by a husband and wife duo (who previously worked at Hellenika), Rosmarino is one of the more refined spots on this list – in fact, they specialies in private events and weddings. Next door, however, you’ll find Etna, the slightly more relaxed sister venue, which specialises in pizza and pasta. Whatever your vibe, you’ll find great Italian food here.
12. Tartufo (Fortitude Valley)
Open: Tuesday – Sunday
An OG of Fortitude Valley’s dining scene, Tartufo has built a loyal following around traditional Italian cooking. As the name suggests, the menu here places an emphasis on truffles when they’re in season. Expect house-made pasta, crisp wood-fired pizzas and one of the city’s more extensive Italian wine lists.
13. Mosconi (Fortitude Valley)
Open: Wednesday – Sunday
Served up inside this tiny venue is a concise menu that changes regularly to showcase seasonal produce and Italian-inspired flavours. It’s tucked away just off James street, making it a perfect post-shopping pitstop. There’s also a carefully considered wine selection that’s worth taking a look at.
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