Bar Pacino

Bar Pacino is a secret gem of an Italian eatery and bar that sits perched above Brisbane Riverside in a crow’s nest locale with stunning views of the Story Bridge. And, just like its Hollywood namesake, Bar Pacino does simple, classic Italian to a tee.

First you have to find it though – with the fun entrance being to slip past the striking screen mural of Al Pacino in the foyer of 175 Eagle St. Otherwise take the corridor to the right past Bar Pacino’s street front espresso joint or the stairs from Riverside promenade past Il Centro.

The restaurant bar is a largely al fresco affair, with most of the tables on a breezy terrace perfect for a hot summer’s day or sultry night. As well as the covered terrace, inside by the bar is a tiny opulent VIP nook with velvet couches, fur-rugged floor and marble table, which small groups can book privately for functions or gatherings with the best views in the house through glass walls.

Despite being not easy to find, Bar Pacino is highly popular, thanks to its well-priced pub style food, (with a strong Italian flavour) and its exclusive range of top shelf drinks, including first pour, ultra premium vodka Ciroc.

Starting with great value breakfasts (especially considering they come with one of Brisbane’s best views) diners can enjoy everything from toast with butter and jam or smashed avo to Italian omelette, Eggs Benedict or The Pacino – eggs your way, pork and fennel sausage, bacon, haloumi, roasted tomato, mushroom and pane di casa.

Lunch and dinner derives from the same menu and ranges from share plates/drink accompaniments like Patatine Fritte (Italian style fries), Mixed Antipasto, Bruschetta, Trio of Dips or Salt and Pepper calamari, followed by Insalate (such as Lifestyle or di Pollo) and the popular Panini – Italian style burgers on Italian bread, such as Haloumi, Chicken, Beef or Steak sandwich served with delicious Italian fries.

And if it’s impossible to decide from the above or in a group go for one of the fantastic platters for 5 or 10 people, such as the recommended Taste of Pacino, with a sampling of everything.

Otherwise there’s a small range of traditional wood-fired pizzas (recommended is the Italian Meatball), pasta dishes and Carne such as classic Chicken Parmigiana and Herb Salmon.

And for afters desserts include scrumptious chef-made chocolate, vanilla or ricotta cannoli.

If dropping by for a drink, order at the bar and settle in with a refreshing House Cocktail like the Caribbean style spiced rum and fruity Fortune Teller or a classic like the Bellini, Negroni or Espresso Martini.

The wine list at Bar Pacino features a selection of Argentinian, Italian, SA, WA and Tasmanian reds, Italian, NZ, SA, WA and Victorian whites and Champagne such as Pol Roger Brut and Sparking from Italy – Toratta Prosecco Superior.

Otherwise beers are a mix of Australian craft, Italian lager and a smattering of International favourites.

The menu may have changed since our visit.

See our full curated list of restaurants in Brisbane CBD HERE