Behind closed doors – our list of Brisbane’s best private dining rooms
Dining at its best is a communal experience – gathering around a single table to share food, drink and conversation. In our opinion, there’s nothing like getting the entire crew together for a big ol’ feast. If you’re hunting for a cosy space for your next catch-up with friends – or even looking for a polished setting for an important business lunch – we’ve got you covered with a list of Brisbane’s best private dining rooms. From moody underground hideaways to breezy private terraces, these options offer the perfect blend of connection and comfort – without the crowds. Read on for our top picks …
Azteca, Brisbane City: For those planning a special occasion, Azteca’s private dining room offers a truly elevated experience. Tucked within the venue’s striking surrounds, the 12-seat private dining space sets the scene for unforgettable celebrations – be it a corporate dinner, milestone birthday or VIP event. Dramatic styling, moody lighting and rich textures create an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and intimate, while the curated banquet menus take the fuss out of planning with a mouth-watering showcase of Azteca’s signature blend of Latin flair and Asian finesse. Visit the website for more info on Azteca’s private dining experiences.
FIRMA, South Brisbane: At FIRMA, Emporium Hotel South Bank’s signature Italian-inspired restaurant, groups can gather around Nonna’s Table – a warm and intimate room tucked beside the main dining area. Seating between six and 14 guests, the space is framed by a curated wine display and a 150-year-old European stained glass window, creating an elegant backdrop for everything from family celebrations to corporate lunches. Guests can select from two chef-curated set menus priced at $89 or $120 per person, or work with the kitchen team to tailor the experience. Boutique Italian wines are also available to complement the occasion.
Hills of Rivermakers, Morningside: Set on the grounds of the heritage-listed Commonwealth Acetate of Lime Factory built in 1910, Hills of Rivermakers has been carefully restored and reimagined to bring together food, community and culture along the Brisbane River. The Hills of Rivermakers also caters to private dining and event bookings, with a range of flexible spaces available for small to mid-sized gatherings. Options include the character-filled Urban Winery, the leafy, open-air Lawn and the adaptable Engineering Hut, which blends indoor comfort with an outdoor atmosphere. Menus are seasonal and can be tailored to the occasion, with food ranging from share-style banquets to canapes and grazing tables. The range of spaces, flexible seating layouts and seasonal menus make it well suited to long lunches, milestone dinners and intimate celebrations.
Agnes, Fortitude Valley: Elevated above the dining room floor on its own mezzanine level, Agnes’ 24-seat private dining room is one of the most impressive places to dine with your nearest and dearest. Ideal for parties, small weddings and splashy business dinners, this self-contained space boasts an impressive view of the open-plan kitchen and its own dedicated floor staff dispensing the restaurant’s famed woodfired fare. Agnes also opens its wine bar and rooftop terrace for private events, with capacity for 45 standing guests and 30 people standing, respectively. Click here to make an enquiry.
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Rothwell’s, Brisbane City: Located in the heritage-listed Rothwell’s building in the heart of Brisbane’s CBD, Rothwell’s private dining rooms are an exceptional hideaway from the crowds. From intimate private dinners to lavish soirees, Rothwell’s offers the Wine Room, suited to a party of 12, or The Cellar for your choice of a sit-down or cocktail-style event with a maximum of 65 people. The menu is available for lunch and dinner with a choice between three courses, sharing style or canapes. A dedicated events manager and sommelier is also assigned to ensure your event succeeds on all fronts. For more information on Rothwell’s private dining room, click here.
Supernormal, Brisbane City: The Bridge Room at Supernormal offers its own private terrace with a picturesque view of the Story Bridge and Brisbane River. Shortlisted for the 2025 Australian Interior Design Awards, the space is hugged by natural timber shutters and soft lighting. The Bridge Room also features a 64-inch screen and BOSE surround sound including a karaoke system, further elevating your private event. Catering is offered for exclusive events of up to 46 seated guests or 70 standing. For more information on how to book, visit the website.
1889 Enoteca, Woolloongabba: Venture down to 1889 Enoteca, located in the heritage-listed Moreton Rubber Works building in Woolloongabba’s antique quarter. Taking pride in serving authentic Roman fare, 1889 Enoteca is known for its cosy atmosphere, where one can delight in the freshest ingredients underneath a ceiling-high wine library full of hand-picked organic biodynamic and naturally made Italian wines. 1889 Enoteca’s basement private dining room, The Cellar, sets the scene for a group of 10–40 guests, with a long timber table and 1950s vintage wine bottles lining the 120-year-old brickwork walls. Alternate-drop and four-course menus are available amongst a spectacular list of wines and beverages to suit your group. For more information on 1889 Enoteca’s private dining room, visit the website.
Central, Brisbane City: Step off Queen Street and descend into Central – an underground Hong Kong-inspired dumpling bar and restaurant, tucked beneath the heritage-listed Piccadilly Arcade. As you enter the low-lit restaurant, take a right turn and peek behind the draped curtains to an elegant space for those seeking a little more privacy, whether that be a business lunch or intimate gathering. The private dining room seats a maximum of 12 guests and is available for three time slots daily. After winning three design awards in 2025, it’s not hard to see why Central made our list for best private dining restaurants. To view availability and book, click here.
Petite, Fortitude Valley: On the corner of Ann and East Street in Fortitude Valley, you’ll find a neighbourhood French bistro that offers sweet relief from the buzz of James Street. This glass-encased venue with high ceilings and attentive staff offers more than just a dinner for two. Peel away to the mezzanine level to a space designed to feel connected to the buzzing main dining room downstairs, while maintaining the intimacy of your own private event. The Mezzanine can host groups of eight to 50 seated or up to 70 standing and a special chef’s banquet is designed for each event. The Petite team prides itself on carving out time and energy into each event with all the thoughtful elements from the heart. To book Petite for your next private dinner party, click here.
Pompette, Brisbane City: Say ‘oui’ to a function with flair at Pompette restaurant in The Star Brisbane. Think French-inspired feasts, a champagne list to die for and alluring Brisbane River views. With three secluded spaces to choose from, guest can indulge in canape-style, banquet or a la carte menus, with the drinks package sure to impress your group. Don’t want anyone knowing of your comings or goings? Book a table in the Reserve Room with its own private entrance and seating for up to nine guests. Pompette is the ultimate spot for VIP moments or confidential catch-ups, all while bringing effortless French charm. Oh and we heard they do raclette nights too – sign us up for all of the cheese.
Sushi Room, Fortitude Valley: Since opening in 2022, Sushi Room has held a special place of reverence among food lovers. Offering a nuanced yet exacting take on Japanese fine dining, a booking here promises a truly elevated experience. Its private dining room is equally refined, with moody interiors and low lighting that add a further layer of sophistication. Seating a maximum of 12 guests, diners can select either the dinner or Enkai set, which both feature a selection of raw seafood, delicate nigiri, crispy tempura and dessert.
Bar Sasso, Woolloongabba: Tucked away next door to Sasso Italiano in Woolloongabba is Bar Sasso – its fun and quirky little sister. The room accomomdates up to 40 seated or 80 standing guests – ideal for everything from interactive dining and cocktail masterclasses to elevated corporate events with a touch of flair. Much like the Italian joints you’d frequent in the 70s, Bar Sasso’s warm lighting, curated art pieces and own private bar work to bring it up a notch. If you’re in the mood to sample a range of Italian-inspired delights from pasta and pizza to small bites and mini cannolis, look no further than Bar Sasso for your next event.
Southside, South Brisbane: Tucked away in the leafy oasis of Fish Lane, Southside and its counterpart Kiki have ample space to offer lovers of Asian-inspired delicacies. Little do many know that not only does the ground level and first floor have space to seat private dinners, but the second floor also offers a private dining space for up to 24 guests with a range of banquets or canape menus to choose from. Boasting high ceilings, custom-built tables and the flexibility to connect to the surround sound, the level two private dining room offers everything needed to make the experience your own affair. For more information and to book, click here.
sAme sAme, Fortitude Valley: Anyday’s sleek Thai-inspired restaurant sAme sAme is an in-demand dining destination, especially for those with something to celebrate. The venue’s balcony, overlooking Ada Lane, is reserved for private dining – furnished with three tables that can seat 30 guests for lunch or dinner. Here, sAme sAme’s skilled team looks after your every need, with banquet and drinks menus available for different price points. Get more info here.
Dark Shepherd, Brisbane City: Wander up to The Star Brisbane’s dining level The Terrace and you’ll find solace in chic, atmospheric Mediterranean-inspired restaurant Dark Shepherd. Its 120-seat venue relishes in private dining spaces galore, from semi-private to outside on the terrace, to adopting the full venue should you aim to please. Up to ten guests are welcome in the private dining room, which is walled by a wine fridge, marble round table, modern artwork and glass pendant lights. Dine with a banquet or alternate drop, accompanied by a bespoke wine list or curated drinks package. For more information, check out the Dark Shepherd website here.
Penelope, Fortitude Valley: James Street’s Euro-inspired supper club offers a chicly opulent spot for comfort-inducing fare. And while the restaurant is typically shielded from view by banks of fluted-glass windows, the venue offers an extra-private space for groups to dine without disruption. Situated adjacent to the main restaurant and boasting its own private entrance, Penelope’s eight-seat private dining space is equipped with a wet bar for beverage preparation and a top-of-the-line sound system, so you can create your own vibe. Penelope offers customised proposals for all function enquiries – click here to get in touch.