Brisbane Portuguese Club
Pinkenba
THE BRISBANE PORTUGUESE CLUB AT PINKENBA HAS PERMANENTLY CLOSED.
The Brisbane Portuguese Club is Brisbane's go-to for authentic Portuguese fare at prices that won’t hurt the hip pocket.
The small and humble club is run solely by a team of dedicated volunteers, led by the affable Ferreira and wife, Bia. Ferreira stops to chat at different tables whist Bia busily oversees the meals and makes sure everyone is enjoying their food.
This is not a fine dining experience, nor is the service of restaurant standard, but here you will find authentic Portuguese food that is truly delicious. The club's Facebook page reveals the dishes that will be on offer, so take a look as there are no menus at the club.
Starters may include Clams Bulhao Pato Style whilst main meal options will always include the very traditional salted cod fish dish - Bacalhau Espiritual (a combination of oven baked salted cod fish, potato, cream, capsicum, tomato and olives). A variety of cod fish dishes are offered regularly. Broad bean stew, oven roasted pork spareribs, beef steak Portuguese style, and fried hake fish are other meals visitors may find being offered.
With each main meal ordered, free dessert is provided. A range of traditional Portuguese desserts are offered and amongst the choices of sweets are almond tart, egg pudding and creamed rice with cinnamon - all highly recommended.
A small bar serves a limited range of beers, spirits and wines. Go all out and try a Portuguese wine - there's a nice drop on offer here. A short black and perhaps a liqueur will finish off a good meal at the Brisbane Portuguese Club.
The family oriented club is well supported by the friendly Portuguese community and all funds raised are used to support the Brisbane Athletic Football Club. A small games room houses a pool table and table soccer and is popular with kids waiting for the grown-ups to finish their meal.
Also at the club is the "Saloon" - a good sized function room where one can imagine some serious partying happens. In fact, each month the club holds a special party night in the Saloon and these nights offer the full Portuguese experience with food, dancing and music (details are posted on Facebook) - all are welcome. This area is also available to book for parties and special occasions and has a stage and dance floor.
In a nutshell - For an authentic Portuguese feed that won't break the bank, this is the place to head.
Need to know: No EFTPOS available, cash only.
Worth knowing: Do not rely on Google Maps to get you here. At night it is not the easiest spot to find. The easiest way to find the club is to head for Lomandra Drive at Pinkenba. Directly across the road to the right (on Main Myrtletown Road) is the Brisbane Portuguese Club. Look for a low set brick building with green and red decoration. Bookings advisable.
By Sandy Ludinski
