More than just a morning out for local pets, Portside Wharf is officially redefining what it means to be a neighborhood meeting spot by rolling out a comprehensive pet-welcoming initiative this August.
Early risers will gather near Bella Deli on 29 August as a community-led riverside trek sets the tone for the day. Participants will navigate a scenic 45-minute waterfront trail alongside fellow animal lovers before looping back into the heart of the precinct.
What happens when you combine a massive ball pit with live acoustic music? The atmosphere shifts entirely. While humans sip complimentary hot drinks from a specialized cart and treat their companions to custom puppacinos, early-bird arrivals can score luxury goodie bags stuffed with boutique toys and artisan snacks.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Beyond the weekend festivities, the precinct is implementing a clever signage system to take the guesswork out of bringing pets along for errands.
Clear window decals will soon indicate which local eateries and boutiques welcome four-legged visitors inside, complemented by strategically placed water stations designed to keep visiting hounds comfortable year-round.
Valentine’s Day is a good excuse to enjoy great food, whether that means a romantic dinner, a night out with friends, or something a bit different. If you’re keen to avoid the usual spots, Ghanem Group has released special menus across its Brisbane venues worth checking out.
The restaurant group has banquet options and bottomless sessions available from 13-15 February. Here’s what’s on offer.
Byblós
Photo Credit: Supplied
Hamilton locals can enjoy a romantic waterfront feast at Byblós on Portside Wharf with a three-course banquet as the exclusive offering on Valentine’s Day evening. Sittings are at 5.30pm and 8.30pm, with the banquet also available on 13-15 February, plus Valentine’s Day lunch.
The Lebanese restaurant sits right on the Brisbane River, offering Mediterranean cuisine in a renovated space that reopened in 2024 with a fresh new look.
The heritage-listed modern Cantonese fine diner is serving a nine-dish banquet as the exclusive evening offering on Valentine’s Day. Sittings are at 6pm and 8.30pm, with the special menu also available from 13-15 February.
The rooftop Spanish-inspired restaurant is offering a 10-dish Sky High Love Banquet, exclusively available on Valentine’s Day from 5.15pm, or alongside other menu options from 13-15 February.
For the gals, Iris is hosting ‘Galentines’ on Sunday 15 February from 11.30am-3.30pm, with 1½-hour pink margarita trees and a special banquet.
Price: $129 per person (Valentine’s Day dinner), $98 (alcoholic) or $88 (non-alcoholic) for Galentines
The riverside favourite at Eagle Street Pier is serving a three-course menu with a choice of starters, mains and desserts. Sittings are 5.30pm and 8.30pm, with the special menu available from 13-15 February.
Make your Valentine’s Day Vietnamese-inspired at The Star with two banquet options—Classic and Premium—as exclusive dinner options from 5.30pm.
Or go all in with the Valentine’s Edition Bottomless option, featuring a selection of dishes and 1½ hours of bottomless pink cocktails from 11.30am-3.30pm.
Meaning ‘kiss kiss’ in French, Bisou Bisou has a special three-course J’Adore menu featuring choices of entrées, mains and desserts as the exclusive Valentine’s Day evening menu from 5.30pm. The menu is also available from 13-15 February.
Special Extras: Bottles of Taittinger Prestige Rosé NV ($167) and LÂPACH gift boxes ($45-90) can be added to any venue booking.
All menus include options for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan guests.
What This Means For Hamilton
Hamilton residents have a home advantage with Byblós right at Portside Wharf, making it an easy choice for a Valentine’s celebration without the drive into the city. The waterfront location offers river views and has been a Portside fixture since 2006, recently undergoing a full renovation.
For those willing to venture further, the other Ghanem Group venues are spread across Brisbane’s dining precincts. Blackbird at Eagle Street Pier is the next closest option for riverside dining.
Bookings are recommended as Valentine’s Day sessions tend to fill up quickly. The extended availability from 13-15 February also gives more flexibility if you’d prefer to avoid the Valentine’s Day rush.
Portside Wharf will welcome the holiday season this December with a month-long program designed around festive entertainment and family-friendly activities. The Hamilton precinct’s Moments That Make Christmas celebration will run across three themed weekends, offering Santa photos, elf face painting, roaming carollers, and the return of The Claw Box lucky dip.
Throughout December, participating restaurants will also offer Kids Eat Free* on Thursdays, adding an extra incentive for families to enjoy an evening meal at the riverside precinct during the festive period.
Weekend 1: Santa Photos (6–7 December)
The first weekend of celebrations began with Santa’s arrival at Portside Wharf. Visitors who spent 50 dollars or more at a precinct retailer received a free photo with Santa.
This opening weekend marked the start of the precinct’s festive program, giving families an opportunity to visit the riverside precinct, shop, and take part in the early holiday atmosphere.
Weekend 2: Elf Face Painting and Family Fun (13–14 December)
Photo credit: Vincent Dubois/Google Maps
The second weekend, held on 13–14 December, will focus on activities for children. Roaming elves will be present throughout the precinct, providing free festive face painting from 12 pm to 4 pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
This weekend features simple, family-oriented activities designed to offer children a light and enjoyable festive experience.
Weekend 3: Roaming Carollers and The Claw Box (20–21 December)
Photo credit: Markus Ravik
The final weekend of the program will run from 20–21 December. Roaming carollers will perform from 12 pm to 4 pm, adding a musical element to the precinct during the afternoon.
Running across both days, The Claw Box will return as part of the festivities. The lucky dip style machine will offer visitors a chance to win gifts provided by Portside Wharf retailers, adding an element of surprise to the final weekend’s activities.
Across all three weekends, the precinct will host a variety of entertainment and activities centred on joy, generosity, and connection, themes highlighted as part of this year’s Christmas program. Visitors can stay updated by following @portside.wharf on Instagram.
At Gusto da Gianni, food is more than a meal — it’s a celebration of Italian tradition, bold flavours, and a genuine love for bringing people together. Perched on the edge of the Brisbane River at Portside Wharf, this long-standing favourite continues to impress diners with a menu that dives deep into the heart of Italy.
The menu takes things up a notch with a spotlight on truffle, offering a rich and aromatic journey for lovers of the prized ingredient. The new specialità al tartufo features generous use of truffle in dishes that are anything but subtle. Whether folded through creamy pasta or tucked inside crisp croquettes, it’s a seasonal highlight that elevates the already impressive offerings.
Photo credit: Gusto da Gianni/Facebook
But it’s not just about truffles. Gusto da Gianni has built a loyal following with its balanced mix of comfort and creativity. Start with antipasti favourites like tempura-fried zucchini flowers or mussels in white wine, then move on to hearty pasta dishes or unique pizza combinations — think sandcrab and prawn lasagne or pork belly and potato pizza.
Photo credit: Gusto da Gianni/Facebook
From the flame grill, perfectly charred steaks cater to meat lovers, and yes, there’s always room for the classic tiramisu to finish.
Photo credit: Gusto da Gianni/Facebook
Those dropping in for a lighter bite can enjoy charcuterie boards, truffle croquettes, and freshly shucked oysters alongside a crisp Italian wine or spritz — perfect for riverside grazing.
With each dish, the restaurant continues its mission to serve food that’s true to its heritage, rich in flavour, and always worth sharing. Whether you’re there for a casual drink or a full Italian feast, it’s a dining experience that keeps Brisbane locals coming back for more.
Hamilton’s Portside Wharf retail precinct is set to change hands in a $59.4 million deal, as North American investment giant Brookfield moves to divest the asset to Australian funds manager Centennial.
This acquisition marks another significant step in Centennial’s ongoing expansion into the retail sector, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality commercial properties in key locations.
Photo credit: PortsideWharf/Google Maps
Portside Wharf boasts a mix of entertainment, retail, dining, and essential services. With 68 retail tenancies spanning 13,731 square metres and 398 car spaces, the complex has been a well-established hub for Brisbane residents. Current tenants include popular brands across fine dining, cinema, grocery, and health services, catering to a diverse customer base.
Centennial’s Plans for Growth and Development
Photo credit: Yodaman Solo/Google Maps
Centennial’s strategic acquisition provides opportunities for further development within the precinct. Plans are being explored to enhance the asset’s value by introducing a health and wellness hub, optimising the use of the parking area, or even creating a new marina precinct. The complex currently enjoys an 83 percent occupancy rate, with a solid average lease expiry of 6.2 years. When fully tenanted, the site is expected to yield a return of 11.4 percent.
The transaction, brokered by James Douglas, Joe Tynan and Michael Hedger of CBRE, is part of Centennial’s broader push into the retail sector, following several acquisitions, including a recent $37.4 million purchase of a shopping centre in Orange, New South Wales. The company aims to expand its retail portfolio to over $1 billion, capitalising on what it sees as strong investment opportunities in the current market cycle.
Meanwhile, Brookfield has shifted its focus towards the student accommodation sector, halting its planned $400 million dual-tower residential project on two neighbouring development sites at Portside Wharf. Instead, the investment firm is channeling efforts into student housing projects in Brisbane and Melbourne, aligning with its long-term growth strategy.
The sale of Portside Wharf retail precinct reflects the continued strength of Brisbane’s retail property market and the increasing interest from investment firms in well-located, diversified commercial assets. If finalised, Centennial’s acquisition could position the precinct for further evolution, enhancing its appeal as one of the city’s premier waterfront destinations.
The new Hamilton location will offer locals unprecedented access to more than 40 varieties of Tamborine’s handcrafted cheeses, alongside a carefully curated selection of cured meats. More than just a deli, the venue will seat between 30 and 50 people, operating from morning until evening with a menu designed to showcase their artisanal products throughout the day.
For Naples-born milk technologist Cristian Salvati, the new venue represents the latest chapter in his remarkable life journey. Opening a cheese factory had always been his dream while still in Avellino, Italy.
Photo credit: Tamborine Cheese/Facebook
After moving to Australia, he dedicated himself to working in the hospitality industry while establishing himself in his adopted home. After acquiring Australian citizenship, Mr Salvati was finally able to set up Tamborine Cheese.
Tamborine Cheese is known for crafting authentic Italian cheeses using milk sourced from over 150 Queensland farmers. The company’s commitment to local partnerships has helped create a unique fusion of Italian tradition and Queensland produce, all set against the backdrop of Tamborine Mountain.
Photo credit: Tamborine Cheese/Facebook
Morning visitors can expect house-made yoghurt paired with fresh fruit and muesli, accompanied by barista-crafted coffee. As the day progresses, the space will transform into an intimate venue for wine, cocktails, and customisable tasting boards—perfect for riverside dining and drinks.
Portside Wharf (Photo credit: Robert Mason/Google Maps)
The arrival of Tamborine Cheese at Portside Wharf adds another sophisticated offering to Hamilton’s growing culinary scene, bringing together the best of European cheese-making tradition with Queensland’s finest dairy produce.
For locals, it promises to be more than just a shop—it’s set to become a destination where they can experience the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every piece of cheese Salvati and his team create.
Visit Tamborine Cheese’s website for more details about the opening date and special launch events as 2025 approaches.
Byblós, a Lebanese restaurant that has graced the Portside Wharf for nearly two decades, is set to reopen with a stunning transformation that promises to redefine the modern Lebanese dining experience in Brisbane.
Established in 2006 by Lebanese brothers Adonis and Nehme Ghanem, now at the helm of Ghanem Group, Byblós has long been a culinary cornerstone of the Portside Wharf. As new establishments continue to populate the area, Byblós is not content to rest on its laurels. Instead, it’s embracing change with open arms.
Inspiration from the Homeland
Photo credit: Byblós/Facebook
The seeds of this reimagining were sown during a trip to Lebanon in 2023. The Ghanem brothers found themselves captivated by the vibrant, modern Lebanese cuisine of their homeland. This experience sparked a vision to bring a fresh, contemporary take on Lebanese dining to their Brisbane patrons.
A Space Transformed
Photo credit: Byblós/Facebook
The new Byblós is a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. Space Cubed Design Studio has masterfully crafted an interior that transports diners to the heart of Lebanon:
Sand-like textural rendered walls evoke the desert terrain
Sculptural dining booths, inspired by the Phoenician alphabet, serve as the centrepiece of the voluminous dining area
A mix of small and larger table settings cater to various group sizes
The façade has been opened up, maximising views and connection to the waterfront
“The new design brings you closer to the river than ever, reflecting our namesake city Byblós,” the Ghanem brothers shared in a recent Facebook post.
Culinary Secrets and Libation Innovations
Photo credit: Byblós/Facebook
While the brothers are keeping the details of their new menu under wraps, anticipation is building among Brisbane’s food enthusiasts.
What is known is that Byblós will continue to excel in its renowned drinks offerings, including fabulous and fun cocktails, a broad spirits list, and a strong international wine cellar. Patrons can also look forward to new twists on signature classics, such as the beloved Lebanese Lemonade.
As Byblós prepares to reopen its doors this month, it stands as a shining example of how to honour tradition while embracing innovation. The restaurant is now accepting bookings, inviting diners to be among the first to experience this reimagined Lebanese gem on Brisbane’s waterfront.
As the festive season approaches, Hamilton is gearing up to offer locals a taste of holiday cheer with two unmissable Christmas markets. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, sustainable decorations, or simply want to soak in the yuletide atmosphere, these markets promise to deliver a jolly good time.
Photo credit: The What We Make Design Market/Facebook
On Sunday, 10 November 2024, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, the Slowly Made Christmas Market will transform St Augustine’s Hall on Racecourse Road into a haven for eco-conscious shoppers. Organised by The What We Make Design Market team, this pop-up event focuses on quality and sustainability.
Photo credit: The What We Make Design Market/Facebook
The market, which began last year at the Bulimba Community Centre, is the brainchild of design duo Sarah Raven and Maeike Vollema from Eccentric Republic. Their vision? A market for creatives, run by creatives. Here, Brisbane’s talented designers and makers showcase their skillfully crafted products, all lovingly produced locally in small batches.
Visitors can expect to find an array of sustainable decorations, gifts, and festive items that not only spread joy but also support local artisans and reduce environmental impact.
Portside Wharf Christmas Market
Photo credit: The Market Folk/Facebook
For those who prefer their Christmas shopping with a side of river views, the Portside Wharf Christmas Market on December 7, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, is not to be missed. Presented by The Market Folk, this event brings a festive touch to Hamilton’s picturesque riverside.
Photo credit: The Market Folk/Facebook
The newly renovated precinct, boasting larger open spaces, provides the ideal backdrop for a summer afternoon of browsing and buying. Stalls will offer a diverse range of products, from art and plants to ceramics and accessories. Shoppers can discover a curated selection of handmade gifts, locally produced goodies, and unique crafts from talented local makers and artisans.
This market isn’t just about shopping; it’s an experience. The riverside location invites visitors to take in the summer vibes, perhaps enjoy a refreshment, and support local talent while crossing names off their gift lists.
Why These Christmas Markets Matter
Both markets offer more than just shopping opportunities. They represent a shift towards more conscious consumerism, supporting local businesses, and fostering community spirit. By choosing to shop at these markets, locals are not only finding unique gifts but also contributing to the local economy and reducing their carbon footprint.
Moreover, in an age of mass production and online shopping, these markets provide a refreshing return to personal connections. Shoppers can meet the makers, understand the stories behind the products, and experience the joy of discovering something truly special.
So, whether you’re drawn to the sustainable focus of the Slowly Made Christmas Market or the riverside charm of the Portside Wharf Christmas Market, make sure to mark your calendars. These two events promise to add an extra sparkle to Hamilton’s festive season, offering locals a chance to shop, support, and celebrate in true Christmas spirit.
Hamilton’s Portside Wharf welcomes a fresh face to its dining scene with the arrival of Dumbo, a 90s New York-inspired bar and burger joint brought to you by the acclaimed Happy Fat Group.
This isn’t just another burger bar, though. Co-owners Bonnie Shearston and Tom Sanceau, the hospitality masterminds behind renowned Brisbane establishments like Red Hook, Ruby, My Dear, and formerly Coppa Spuntino, have crafted a unique experience that elevates the classic burger joint to new heights.
Dumbo, drawing its name from the iconic Brooklyn neighbourhood, offers a diverse menu that extends far beyond the humble burger. Think succulent wings, vibrant salads, flavour-packed po’boys, and authentic bagels, all complemented by an extensive drinks list. The stylish venue near the waterfront provides both indoor and outdoor seating, promising a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Burger lovers can rejoice in Dumbo’s impressive selection of 11 signature stacks. A standout choice is the Uptown Funk, a symphony of beef, cheese, gorgonzola, caramelised onions, bacon, and a signature Dumbo sticky glaze.
The menu also caters to diverse palates with chicken and plant-based burger options. For those seeking culinary adventures beyond the burger realm, the street eats menu has tempting choices like the classic NYC dog, pastrami bagel, Southern fried chicken and waffles with Korean hot honey, and beef brisket nachos. And let’s remember the essential side: salt and vinegar fries.
Dumbo doesn’t disappoint on the drinks front either. The carefully curated bar menu features an array of classic martinis (including espresso and a bloody shiraz gin spritz currently on tap), tap and bottled beers, and a thoughtfully chosen wine list encompassing bubbles, pinks, whites, and reds.
For those abstaining from alcohol, a nostalgic, “thicc” malt milkshake offers a delightful throwback to old-school diner culture.
Adding to its appeal, Dumbo has introduced enticing weekly specials. Mondays bring the joy of $10 cheeseburgers, a welcome treat for budget-conscious diners. And for those seeking luxury, a fried chicken and champagne pairing promises an indulgent experience.
With its prime location, diverse menu, and the experienced hands of the Happy Fat Group at the helm, Dumbo is poised to become a favourite destination for Hamilton locals and visitors alike.
Hamilton’s dining scene has just received a breath of fresh air with the opening of Portside Social. This ambient, modern gastropub is set to become the go-to destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of culinary delights and social experiences.
The restaurant caters to groups of all sizes, from intimate gatherings of 10 to large events of up to 200 people. Whether you’re planning a casual catch-up or a grand celebration, this versatile venue has you covered.
Daily Pours: The Perfect After-Work Ritual
Photo credit: Portside Social/Facebook
Looking for a place to unwind after a long day? Portside Social’s Daily Pours, running from 4-6:00 p.m. every day, offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy knock-off drinks or cocktail catch-ups with friends and colleagues.
A Menu That Satisfies Every Palate
Diners can indulge in contemporary versions of pub classics, including an oversized parmy that’s sure to impress, a house burger that redefines comfort food, and signature platters perfect for sharing.
For those seeking something a bit more refined, the Goldband Snapper is a must-try. Served with garlic mash, broccolini, lemon béchamel, and crispy capers, this dish exemplifies the gastropub’s culinary prowess.
Entertainment for Every Day of the Week
Photo credit: Portside Social/Facebook
Portside Social isn’t just about great food and drinks; it’s a hub of entertainment. Tuesdays feature Trivia Night (starting September 24th), while Wednesdays offer Themed Trivia (starting October 9th). Thursdays bring the excitement of Drag Bingo (starting October 3rd), and weekends are packed with Bottomless Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays (starting October 12th). From Friday to Sunday, patrons can enjoy Live & Local music performances.
Portside Social welcomes guests from Tuesday to Thursday and on Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays, the venue extends its hours from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., perfect for those looking to start early or end late.
Whether you’re a Hamilton local or just visiting, Portside Social at the Portside Wharf is set to become your new favourite spot for food, drinks, and unforgettable experiences.
