Where Chefs Eat: The Best Long Lunch Spots in Queensland, According to 10 Chefs

For a lot of us, a long lunch is the crown jewel of the weekend. The sun’s shining. You’re surrounded by friends. No one’s in a rush. And you can spend hours lingering over dishes and still be tucked up in bed by 8pm.

If you’re looking for a location for your next lunch, listen to this advice from 10 top Queensland chefs.

Oscar Holgado, Kin Kin Hotel

“Mapleton Public House. The menu is great and super seasonal. Plus, there’s good booze and an amazing view.”

Meek Brikshavana, So What Stereo

“David’s Master Pot is so good.”

Erick Martinez, Cartel del Taco

“Pilloni would be my choice. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, enjoy thoughtful cooking and spend a long afternoon around great food.”

Benny Lam, Southside and Central

“Agnes, especially on a Sunday. I had a long lunch there recently and left feeling deeply satisfied. Every dish was on point.”

Alana Lowes, Masterchef

“Howard Smith Wharves is my go-to, especially if there is a group of us. I do love Greca – its Greek feast banquet menu is the best for a large group looking for a long lunch vibe. Plus, you can bounce from lunch to a cocktail bar and then back for dinner all in the one spot. If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, The Lex at W Brisbane is a New York grill-style diner and has a sweeping terrace to soak up views of the Brisbane River.”

Louis Tikaram, Stanley and Stan’s

“Billy’s Pine & Bamboo is the perfect place to eat with a huge group! The menu and massive tables with the lazy Susans are such a good time. The staff are also so friendly and accommodate the large groups with ease.”

Jamie Fleming, Masterchef

“I can’t lie, Sum Yung Guys in Noosa is still a go-to. I know I will be looked after. I know the food is delicious and I know I can keep ordering roti if another bottle of wine happens to hit the table. What’s not to love?”

Jason Barratt, Supernormal and Bar Miette

“Florence in Camp Hill. It leans more to brunch than lunch, but it’s a place we keep going back to. I usually go for whatever’s new on the specials board, then grab a few pastries to take home.”

Dario Manca, Attimi by Dario Manca

“Short Grain, not only because Martin is great at what he does and a good friend as well, but also because the environment is relaxing and beautiful. I’d recommend you order a Margarita and dig into the set menu.”

Daniel “Dobbers” Dobra, Peli’s Noosa

“It’s gotta be Bask. They moved their venue from the hinterland in Eumundi down to the coast at Peregian Beach, and long, lazy lunches are their jam. It’s paddock-to-plate at its finest, and the menu is perfect for sharing with friends.”