As one of Australia’s northernmost cities and the home to attractions like the Great Barrier Reef and Australia Zoo, Queensland is a popular travel destination for both international and domestic travellers alike. But Brisbane’s proximity to the rest of the Asia-Pacific also makes the state’s capital city a common stopover destination for many weary travellers. 

If you know you’re prone to finding yourself feeling jet-lagged and keen for a hearty meal past midnight, or looking for a quick snack in the small hours, then this guide is for you. Today, we’ll be sharing the top highly recommended restaurants and establishments for tourists in Brisbane who are on the lookout for a late night bite.

The NightOwl convenience store for a quick & easy snack

The convenience store has single-handedly saved many a weary traveller, restless local, and clubbing student in the dead hours of the morning. With over 80 store locations across Australia (with the bulk of these being within the state of Queensland where the brand first originated), the NightOwl in Brisbane will offer you a surprising array of products, including hot food and drink. The NightOwl stores all offer a clean and easily navigable layout, with a huge catalogue of items for whatever you’re craving.

Some of these convenience stores based in the Brisbane CBD also act as service stations, allowing you to fill up your hire car alongside grabbing a quick bite. And if you’re extra lucky, the NightOwl you wind up directing yourself to might just be one of those operating 24 hours, 7 days a week. You can’t beat that level of reliability. 

The Pancake Manor for a 24 hour breakfast

Speaking of 24 hour institutions, there’s no other type of food that satisfies a deep hunger quite like breakfast. That’s precisely why Brisbane City’s own The Pancake Manor has made today’s list. Located on Charlotte Street and just a stone’s throw from the botanic gardens and Central Station, this converted cathedral presents a delightfully warm and playful ambience that’s perfectly suited for enjoying a pancake breakfast as early as three in the morning. 

But The Pancake Manor is also so much more than just pancakes. On top of traditional stacks and decadent desserts, The Pancake Manor’s kitchen is also fully equipped to serve up some of your favourite comfort food menu items, spanning from cheesy nachos, juicy burgers, and even savoury crepes. We definitely recommend heading to The Manor on an empty stomach!

Red Hook for New York-style street food

If you’re a sucker for hidden gems, then you’re sure to find plenty to love about this next recommendation. Situated along Gresham Lane in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, Red Hook is renowned for being one of Brisbane’s smallest diners that still packs a delicious punch. This little diner, bar, and take-out spot is open until late from Tuesday through to Saturday, making it the perfect place for you to grab a delectable bite during the wee hours.

But what’s on the menu? Red Hook is famous for its New York-style street eats with hotdogs, cheesesteaks, tacos, and other pedestrian-friendly bites. You can also enjoy beers on tap, wines, and even specialty cocktails to enjoy with any of the street eats or Red Hook’s own burger menu, which boasts beef, chicken, and vegetarian burger options.

The Kitchen at Treasury for modern Australian meals

Planning a multi-day stopover in Brisbane? Then chances are you’re looking for comfortable accommodation alongside a hearty meal or two. Thankfully, the Treasury is here to deliver, offering hotel rooms, casino entertainment, and of course, their signature dining establishment: The Kitchen at Treasury.

Serving up Australiana, pub-inspired meals like parmigianas, fish and chips, and a range of filling pizza and pasta dishes, The Kitchen at Treasury prides itself on being a home-style diner that provides a sense of belonging to even the most jet-lagged adventurers.  You’ll be sure to find some of Brisbane’s must-try foods on its menus.

No matter which part of the globe you’ve come from, you’ll feel right at home in the warm and inviting atmosphere of The Kitchen at Treasury. Another 24 hour joint, you’ll find breakfast, all-day, and overnight menus so you can always have access to a filling meal when you need it most.

The Alba Bar & Deli for conservas, jamón, and Spanish wines

Located right down Burnett Lane and within the wider Queen Street Mall, the Alba Bar & Deli is known for its funky ‘90s RnB music, a wide selection of Spanish and Australian wines, and for being the place to go if you’re looking for some authentic tapas, or to feel transported to the dining distinct of San Sebastian in Spain. With its fusion of Brooklyn, NY and Spanish-inspired design elements, a trip to the Alba Bar & Deli will have you feeling very much like a global citizen who’s ready to savour all the fruits of the world.

Simply put, we strongly recommend heading to the Alba Bar & Deli if you want to spend your Brisbane layover partying hard and enjoying the city’s best jamón and imported conservas, sourced straight from the Spanish Riviera.

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The next time you’re in Brisbane and looking to fill a night with colour, then be sure to visit any of the five tried and trusted establishments we’ve shared above. Not only will you be sure to enjoy a filling meal – you’ll also be sure to make your Brisbane layover one you won’t forget anytime soon, or start your Aussie trip off on the right foot… or in the right bar.