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Restaurant

POPOLO

3 Sidon St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Recommended by 59 people

Updated

Find POPOLO

3 Sidon St, South Brisbane QLD 4101, Australia

Directions ↗
+61 7 3846 7784
HoursMonday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 8:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 4:30 – 8:30 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About POPOLO

South Bank riverfront tables meet handmade Italian plates framed by the glowing Brisbane skyline. Popolo delivers the full waterfront trattoria rhythm—citrus spritz in hand, crisp arancini on deck, and ferries gliding past Sidon Street. Regulars lean straight toward the seafood linguine and bowls of mussels steaming in rich broth, soaked up with charred bread. Between soft gnocchi, blistered wood-fired slices, and tender wagyu, the kitchen keeps textures sharp. Wine carafes arrive promptly, tables lingering over classic, espresso-soaked tiramisu with a clean boozy kick.

  • Waterfront Dining: Direct South Bank outdoor tables look straight out over the Brisbane River and illuminated skyline.
  • Coastal Pasta & Seafood: Fresh seafood linguine and mussels in rich broth lead alongside tender gnocchi and wood-fired pizzas.
  • Curated Pairings: Attentive floor staff guide guests through tailored wine recommendations and refreshing spritzes.
  • Classic Boozy Tiramisu: Traditional espresso-soaked tiramisu layered with cream and a distinct alcoholic finish.
RestaurantItalianRestaurant

What's On at POPOLO

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

The Popolo Advantage

Why diners choose Popolo for romantic dates, celebrations, and riverside Italian dining

  • Waterfront Dining Overlooking the Brisbane River

    Positioned directly on the South Bank riverfront, diners look across the Brisbane River to the glowing city lights.

    The location looking out over the river is definitely a lovely part of the dining experience

    Thomas Stanley

  • Romantic Ambiance Framed by City Lights

    The night view across the water and illuminated foreshore creates an intimate setting for romantic evenings and anniversaries.

    It created the perfect backdrop for a special night together.

    Thomas Aitchison

  • Fresh Seafood Linguine and Italian Fare

    The kitchen crafts authentic Italian dishes spotlighting fresh seafood linguine and mussels in flavorful broth.

    The seafood was exceptionally fresh and packed with a beautiful, authentic "ocean flavor".

    Rei Lin

  • Generous Portions and Curated Wines

    Generous shareable platters, artisan pizzas, and hand-crafted pastas make casual lunches and group dining straightforward and satisfying.

    Portions were generous, the wine selection was spot on, and the service was attentive without being over the top.

    Kevin GB

  • Seamless Large Family and Birthday Celebrations

    Accommodating staff effortlessly host milestone birthdays and multi-generational family get-togethers.

    19 family members (all foodies) from Townsville down to Melbourne gathered for an 80th birthday celebration.

    Muzzie Herbert

  • Attentive Service Anticipating Every Need

    Attentive front-of-house staff anticipate guests' needs to ensure group gatherings feel effortless and warm.

    Caitlin our server was attentive and friendly, we never wanted for anything as she anticipated our needs perfectly.

    Georgina Mackie

Signature Italian pastas, fresh seafood, and handcrafted pizzas

  • Linguine

    The seafood linguine at Popolo is hands down my favourite dish in Brisbane. I’ve come back for it time and time again, and it’s consistently outstanding.

    Jai Chandra

  • Mussels

    The seafood was exceptionally fresh and packed with a beautiful, authentic "ocean flavor". The mussels served in that rich, flavorful broth with toasted bread were absolutely divine.

    Rei Lin

  • Gnocchi

    Great flavour and texture for the Gnocchi which can often be a bit overdone.

    Thomas Stanley

  • Truffle Pizza

    Seafood risotto and truffle pizza are highly recommended, as is the Tramonto Frizzante cocktail.

    F M

Beyond the menu

Thoughtful hospitality and table care elevating romantic and milestone occasions.

  • Arranged Birthday Candle Presentation

    Guests celebrating birthdays can arrange ahead for custom dessert presentations complete with a celebratory candle, facilitated graciously by the maître d'.

  • Front-and-Centre Table Accommodation

    Staff accommodate anniversary requests for prime waterfront seating right front and centre, ensuring couples celebrate framed directly by the river and city skyline.

  • Proactive River-View Table Transition

    Even during busy services, staff actively monitor seating availability to seamlessly transition walk-in guests to prime river-facing tables before main courses arrive.

  • Tailored Food and Wine Pairing Guidance

    Servers provide tailored recommendations for Italian wine pairings that complement specific pasta selections like gnocchi and pappardelle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I make a reservation in advance?

Yes, booking in advance is strongly recommended. Popular tables overlooking the river frequently book out, and walk-ins during peak times or holidays may face limited table availability.

What are the most recommended dishes to order?

Standout favourites across customer reviews include the seafood linguine, fresh mussels in broth, gnocchi, truffle pizza, and the house tiramisu.

Can I get a table with a river view?

The restaurant overlooks the Brisbane River toward the city skyline. While river-facing seating offers clear waterfront views, specific tables are in high demand, so requesting a view when reserving is advised.

How are the portion sizes?

Portion feedback is mixed. Many guests report generous servings across multi-course meals and pizzas, while others note smaller pasta or starter sizes and recommend ordering multiple dishes to share family-style.

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