Central Restaurant

Chinese restaurant · Brisbane ·

Central Restaurant

Chinese restaurant · Brisbane ·

Hong Kong inspired restaurant with dry-aged duck, rock walls

Information

340 Queen St, Brisbane City QLD 4000, Australia Get directions

@philtoronto

545 Postcards · 110 Cities

Walking down Queen Street towards Eagle Street, you’ll notice an illuminated glass box filled with dry-aging ducks. It’s a sight more common in Chinatown or the streets of Hong Kong than in the Brisbane CBD but, at Central, it sets the tone for what’s to come. Descend a moody concrete staircase, and you’ll find yourself in a hidden cave-like space surrounded by 150-year-old rock walls. The basement restaurant is the newest venue from the Rick Shores and Southside team. Native Hong Konger Benny Lam is executive chef. He’s serving surprising takes on Hong Kong classics, like pineapple buns filled with crispy prosciutto and smoked butter, and fried dough served with smoked foie gras and Davidson’s plum jus. Other dishes include Wagyu beef tartare in a fermented soybean sauce and drunken chicken. There’s dim sum, of course, and larger dishes include wok-fried lobster noodles, triple-cooked Wagyu short rib, and roast duck with lilly pilly plum sauce.

Want To Go

Central Restaurant

MAG

Google

Visited on Monday night for a birthday date, and wow it was still so lively! I love the environment, the whole ambience gives off this mysterious Eastern dining vibe The lobster noodles were lighter than I expected. I thought the gravy would be richer to go with the mild noodles, but it was more delicate than I imagined. Overall, the food was beautiful and on point, and the boss was generous and attentive, taking the time to explain the dishes. The service staff were considerate and gave me advice while I was ordering because of my dietary restrictions. We also received a birthday complimentary dessert, that’s so sweet of them. Big shout out to the mango pudding We had such a great time and definitely hope to come back again

Stephen G.

Google

Central Restaurant is so much more than a meal — it’s a full experience. The thoughtful, modern take on Hong Kong cuisine is impressive, but what truly sets this place apart is the vibe. From the energy of the room to the impeccable, attentive service (John was a fantastic waiter) everything feels intentional and flawlessly executed. Stylish, confident, and memorable — Central is Brisbane dining done right.

Linh N.

Google

The food was such a disappointment. We had to wait over an hour for the Black Angus with honey, which turned out to be completely over-seasoned — so much honey that you could barely taste anything else. Both dim sums we tried (the Peking duck and the prawn har gow) were dry. The fillings were under-seasoned and the wrappers were way too thick. We even had to ask for sauce — why wouldn’t you serve it automatically? It’s dim sum! The foie gras was another letdown. Nothing on the menu mentioned that it would be made into a pâté instead of being served as a whole piece. Service was off from the start. Staff were busy talking and laughing with each other instead of checking on tables. No one came to clear our finished dishes, and when they finally did, they just took them away without asking. After waiting an hour for our main, we had to ask if it was ready — it wasn’t even a busy night — and the waiter just said “it’s coming” and rushed off without any apology. Overall, not worth it at all.

Feasting with Z.

Google

We celebrated our anniversary at Central and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The Night Fever cocktail was light and floral, the perfect start to a beautiful evening. The Wagyu Beef Tartare, dim sum, and pork buns were delicate and delicious, but the highlight was the Dry Aged Black Angus tender, rich, and full of flavour. Impeccable service and a warm, elegant atmosphere made it an unforgettable night.

Brisbanegirl life, art, F.

Google

I am on a martini quest, and so far Brisbane has not disappointed. 🍸 Central on Queen Street has absolutely nailed it. I indulged in their Canton Martini—incredibly delicate in flavour and beautifully balanced. Full disclosure: I usually like my martinis to pack a bit of a punch, but this was a refined, subtle infusion that won me over completely. Made with shio koji and sake, it was simple, elegant, and utterly delicious. PS: shout out to the lovely Laura 🙂

Anjuli S.

Google

We had an incredible 40th birthday dining experience tailored to our unique dietary requirements and enjoyed a much needed night out. Lauren and Hannah really looked after us. Every dish was delicious and paired with a great by the glass wine selection, scollops were perfectly done, also enjoyed the Wagyu Chow Fun and Duck Potstickers. Thanks again

Amber F.

Google

Absolutely incredible dining experience. From the moment we walked in we were in awe. Kate was an absolute delight and made us feel very welcomed and celebrated our special events with us. We couldn’t fault the food, or service in any way. Being able to witness the team working together seamlessly just pulled topped the whole experience off perfectly.

Jason B.

Google

An amazing meal, celebrating a birthday. The team (Olivia?) did a great job acknowledging the birthday girl and making her feel special. They noted some special instructors I asked for when I booked. The meal was amazing, the mushroom dumplings and the duck were standouts. Great wine selection. Love this place - highly recommend!!!