Brisbane’s iconic South Bank has been turned into a bleu, blanc and rouge shrine to the Olympic and Paralympic Games ahead of this month’s sporting extravaganza.
Since the start of the month the famous riverside precinct has been turned into a vibrant French Quarter with a range of culinary delights, cultural experiences and festival vibes on offer.
Festivities will be providing non-stop fun in South Bank until 30 September.
Food and drink highlights
Here’s our pick of the best culinary offerings over the three months:
- A huge Cheese Wheel at Fritzenberger will be a must-see, as chefs warm the wheel and melt the cheese onto frites (fries) and their ‘Frenchified’ hamburgers for an extra $6.
- C’est Du Gateau is already French and will take the flavours to a new level with a different Brisbane Roll each month for $9.50, a regular croissant and coffee for $11 and EXTRA large croissants over the weekends for $35.
- OTTO Ristorante is celebrating a few ways – there’s the premium French wine pairing option with the signature OTTO Tasting Menu for $199 per person and at OTTO Osteria, menu specials include Osteria twice-baked cheese soufflé for $24 and the French-inspired cocktail “Mon Cherie (actually French patisserie in a glass with sweet but tart strawberry and peach, the decadence of a croissant-infused mascarpone milk punch – all expertly balanced) for $25.
- At Brooklyn Depot there’s a French Dip Sandwich or the famous poutine fries, with a French Martini or French 75 for $34.95.
- Baba Ganouj will celebrate with a $22 French Martini and an $18 Chocolate Fondant.
- At Poppies there’s a French Martini with a twist for $18 and a French-inspired Mimosa with Chambord and bubbles for $14.
Le Festival starts today
For one weekend only (5-7 July), Le Festival will be taking place in South Bank area with attendees able to browse through 50 stalls showcasing French fashion and food as well as exhibitions and masterclasses.
Cultural immersion
South Bank will also be home to a number of cultural experiences taking place including roving performances, French picnics and a four-story ‘Paris Tour’ illuminating the forecourt.
Every time an Australian athlete wins a medal in competition, the tour will light up gold, silver or bronze to celebrate!
