How to have the ultimate boys weekend in Brisbane

When the questions is ‘what should we have for dinner’, the answer is not ‘pies at the ground’.

For Caxton street, check out this guide on where to eat including Fritzenberger, Gambaro Seafood and Black Hide Steakhouse if you’re after the perfect cut of red meat.

On the other side of Suncorp Stadium you’ll find Newstead Brewery, serving up wings, burgers and pizzas, all washed down with one of their locally brewed beverages and just around the corner is the Italian institution La Stazione (ask for the house beer too).

For dining near The Gabba, simply cross the road at the Stanley Street end for nearly endless options. Look for top-class restaurant Detour, the classic Australian National Hotel or further towards the CBD (a massive 700m walk) is the Morrison Hotel, home to Fiascos steakhouse and The Naked Whisky Bar (naked by name only, gentlemen).

Looking for something a bit fancy (aka a good dinner for a buck’s night)? Check out this guide to the fourteen best restaurants in Brisbane.

Finally, if ‘where are the best burgers in Brisbane?’ is something you‘ve asked Google, then consider your question answered with this blog post.

Drink

Is there a better way on a boys’ weekend in Brisbane to get the gist of the city than by taste-testing its local drinking dens?

If you fancy yourself quite the beer connoisseur, you’ll find exploring can be a whole lot more satisfying when you pair it with this ultimate craft beer crawl.

Howard Smith Wharves is only 3km from the Gabba (walking is best, although a lime scooter is even quicker) and is home to one of Queensland’s best and newest spots for a sundowner, Felons Brewing Co. The massive brewery has seating aplenty, food options and a range of beers brewed on site.

Another option when at the Gabba is Pincadia, across the road at the Stanley Street end. Pinball is the name of the game but there is a stack of other games to bring out you competitive streak in the two-level venue.

While you’re in the precinct, try and find Jack Rabbits, the hidden whisky bar (hint: start with Electric Avenue and don’t be afraid about opening the closet door).

If you prefer to get a little classy and sport your best pair of chinos, check out Brisbane’s best rooftop bars.

Stay

Where to stay depends on the game – for Suncorp Stadium and the Gabba, the CBD and surrounds is the best option and with a range of new hotels including this lot, there’s plenty of options.

For river views, eclectic styling and an in-room cocktail bar, check-in to the W hotel and enjoy a pool-side wind-down after the final siren.

Explore

There is much more to Brisbane than just the on-field action, so pack your boardies and head to either North Stradbroke Island for its beaches and diving (including manta rays in summer and grey nurse sharks in winter) or Moreton Island to go snorkelling around the famous wrecks.

Worried about spending too much? Don’t fret. You can still find something fun and delicious without having to break the bank, thanks to this list of 20 cheap and free things to do (mini golf and bowls, come at us).