Rosmarino Ristorante & Wine Bar

Rosmarino Ristorante & Wine Bar is a stunning split-level Italian bar and restaurant occupying the refurbished 1890's Hemmant Merchants building in Fortitude Valley.

The splendid brick building started life as the Hemnant Merchants clothing factory and warehouse and in recent years has been restored to its former glory, with high-ceilinged spaces and exposed brick walls and pillars. The main dining area is divided into cosy nooks and intimate spaces and leads to an enclosed courtyard out back.

Part wine bar, part restaurant, Rosmarino, whose entrance you'll find on the Mclachlan side of the building, is the perfect spot for a glass of wine and a snack or an elegant dinner destination.

The extensive drinks menu features Apperitif such as Aperitivo Julep or Americano, Spritz (aperol, campari, elderflower or malfy blood orange), a range of Negroni and cocktails 'Stirred Down' or 'Shaken'as well as premium spirits and a small selection of local craft beers.

The impressive wine list offers a carefully curated selection of boutique wines from around the world (Italy, France, Germany, New Zealand and Australia) including a smattering from Turkey, Slovenia and Morooco. 

Bar snacks are a perfect accompaniment and include an expansive array of freshly sliced Salumi, house-baked Pane (sourdough, foccacina della casa or con pomodorini) and artisan Formaggi (including chevre, old Amsterdam gouda, riverine bufalo blue, occelli whisky, gorgonzola dolce or Marcona sheep milk).

As for the restaurant menu, which is available from July 21st with limited dishes, working up to a full menu a week later, expect to find Antipasti such as kingfish crudo or uova (double cooked duck egg in fried sourdough with artichoke & nettle); Primi such as savoury crepe with porcini mushrooms or spaghetti style pasta with crab. yellow cherry tomatoes & bisque emulsion). 

Meanwhile Secondi choices include risotto ossobucco, barramunidi with chestnut butter, burnt butter white wine & leeks or rolled lamb belly slow-cooked for 24 hours with radish, salsa verde and mustard leaves.

Need to know - There is limited street parking on Marshall St.

See our full list of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane HERE