Living in Brisbane, it feels like there’s always somewhere new popping up to add to the ever-growing must-try list. And having previously lived in Melbourne and Sydney –Australia’s so-called foodie capitals – I can wholeheartedly say Brisbane is seriously giving them a run for their money.
The city’s dining scene is having a real moment, and Friends of Friends is definitely helping lead the charge. They’re the team behind Brisbane’s Southside, Central and Marlowe restaurants, Goodside café, as well as the much-loved Rick Shores at Burleigh (1.5hrs south of Brisbane), along with Norté and Sueño – also on the Gold Coast.
Basically, if you’ve eaten somewhere ridiculously good-looking with equally good food in those two locations of late, there’s a fair chance these guys had something to do with it.
Formerly Fanda Group, the Friends of Friends rebrand is all about their belief in the power of hospitality to bring people together. Their story started with one simple idea: build the kind of venues they wanted to eat, drink and spend time in, and trust that others would want to spend time there as well. And boy, did they nail it. Whatever you’re in the mood for, these guys have you covered.
Southside
Set within a lush urban jungle beneath the train tracks in South Brisbane’s Fish Lane, Southside feels like a little hidden oasis that somehow makes you forget you’re right in the middle of the city. The menu puts a seriously delicious spin on Chinese classics, and if there are two things I’m ordering every time, it’s the truffle prawn toast and potato and truffle spring rolls. Yes, that’s truffle twice, and no, I have absolutely no regrets.
Marlowe
Not far from Southside you’ll find (my personal favourite) Marlowe. It’s a little nostalgic, a little refined and the kind of place I could happily settle into for hours. Located inside an original 1930s Art Deco apartment building, it somehow feels instantly like home. That warm, nostalgic feeling carries through to the menu too, with old-school comfort food given a very chic glow-up. Think crispy brussels sprouts, coral trout wellington and – because no good dinner should ever end without it – trifle for dessert. And don’t get me started on the wine list! Basically, I’d move in if they’d let me.
Central
Then there’s Central, underneath the streets of Brisbane’s CBD, and bringing all the moody, late-night energy of ’90s Hong Kong. Think handmade dim sum and wok-fired favourites ideally eaten counter-side while you watch the chefs work their magic. Then, about 10pm, their iconic disco ball drops from the ceiling, kicking things up a notch. It’s dark, a bit sexy and exactly the kind of place where a long lunch can accidentally turn into a late night.
Rick Shores
If you’re heading to the Gold Coast, you really can’t go past the OG Rick Shores, right on the beach. Their famous bug rolls are iconic for a reason, and is there a better combo than ocean views, sunshine and seafood with a glass of Champagne in hand? Chef’s kiss!
Norté
Further north, at Nobby Beach, Norté serves up Latin American-inspired plates made for sharing, all within a dark and moody space where you can sit back and watch the chefs work the flames. Fire is at the heart of everything here – literally and figuratively. Hot flavours, hot interiors and, dare I say it, hot waiters. Consider it a feast for all the senses.
Sueño
Right above Norté, Sueño brings a decidedly different vibe. Follow the red stairs and you’ll find a breezy rooftop made for sipping cocktails and sharing fresh ceviche, tostadas and smoky asados straight from the grill. Basically, come for dinner downstairs and end up making a night of it upstairs. The hardest part is deciding which one you’re in the mood for.
About Friends of Friends
Across their seven premium restaurants, each Friends of Friends venue has a personality completely of its own, brought to life not just through the food, but also some seriously striking design. There’s a vibe for every occasion: breezy beachside chic at Rick Shores, hidden cave-like surrounds at Central, and beautifully restored 1930s Art Deco at Marlowe.
Nick Woodward, David Flynn and Frank Li, co-owners of Friends of Friends, seem to have thought of absolutely everything when it comes to making each space feel special. And I do mean everything. From the hand-picked furniture and decor to the perfectly paired wines and carefully curated playlist in the background, nothing feels accidental. It’s that kind of attention to detail that makes you feel instantly welcome, comfortable and, inevitably, eager to order just one more wine.
“We have always believed the best moments happen around a table.”
“From the start, we didn’t want to just open restaurants; we wanted to create places where people felt welcome,” says Woodward. “We have always believed the best moments happen around a table. Our restaurants become part of people’s stories. We create places where conversations begin, memories are made and friendships grow. Great food and design might get people through the door, but it’s the people and the connections made when sharing a meal that keep them coming back.”
Different spaces, different personalities but that same feeling that makes you want to settle in, order another round and linger a little longer.
Visit friendsof.com.au for more.
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