Here’s seven spots around town to get ya goin’ in a foodie’s paradise…
The Cottage Restaurant
Step into the charm of a beautiful legacy Queenslander and indulge in a fine dining experience with a modern Australian twist. The Cottage Restaurant is a unique little hideaway, tucked in amongst some of Ipswich’s oldest residential buildings and ready to dish up the goods.
From morning tea, to lunch, dinner and even tastings, The Cottage is a culinary delight for any occasion. Bookings essential, check out their website for details.
Elderflower Cafe
Elderflower Cafe is on the north side of Ipswich, conveniently nestled alongside a plant nursery and with easy access off Mount Crosby Road. They do a beautiful coffee blend made from their own unique brand of True Grit Coffee as well as hearty breakfast and lunch options.
The cafe itself is spacious, decorated lovingly with plants, murals and is even dog friendly. Jolie, the mastermind behind the operation is a long time Ipswich Coffee Connoisseur, with years of experience in the art of the bean.
St Shoebill Cafe
In the top of town area you’ll find a sweet little number, in St Shoebill Cafe (affectionately known as Shoey’s).
Shoey’s is known for its fresh seasonal menu, with influences from South east Asia catering to all your breakfast and lunch needs. They’re also situated within the highly esteemed and heritage listed Ellenborough house, so the backdrop to your meal is an open set, high ceilinged dining space with a touch of old Ipswich charm.
I would absolutely recommend Shoey’s as one of my go to breakfast places for the entire family.
The Rusty Nail
Cocktails, wine, beer and tapas. The Rusty Nail has got the goods. Our very own underground bar is open from Thursday to Sunday with an extensive selection of interesting drinks and craft beers. It’s the perfect spot for a date night or gathering of the lads and one of the best watering holes around. There’s not much else I can say about Rustys, it really does speak for itself.
La Parrilla
Discover the flavours of South American BBQ at La Parrilla, gourmet Latin takeaway in Ipswich. La Parrilla translates to “the grill” in Spanish, and true to form, there’s a fantastic selection of grilled meats, slow-cooked asado, wings, burgers and ribs on offer. Everything is served with traditional Latin sides and salsas for a truly authentic experience. I’d definitely recommend calling ahead because this stuff is fresh and cooked to order.
Prince Alfred Hotel
The Prince Alfred Hotel, known to locals as simply the “The PA”, is not only a historic Ipswich icon but one of the oldest pubs in Queensland, celebrating 181 years of history.
Home to Tap’d Bar, the largest craft beer bar in the Southern Hemisphere with 72 beers on tap, Char’d Restaurant, which offers incredible wine and dine options within a gorgeous setting and Plantations Coffee Shop, which serves top quality coffee and a full café-style menu.
The PA Hotel was awarded Australian Hotel of the Year at the Australian Hotel Awards and its not hard to see why.
Brothers Leagues Club Ipswich
One of the leading entertainment destinations in the region, Brothers Ipswich features a large and stylish lounge area, alfresco seating and three separate bars. But we’re not here for all that good stuff, we’re here for Shamrocks Restaurant.
Guided by Executive Chef Neil Smith, Shamrocks seamlessly blends classic club favourites with an array of high end dishes that push the boundaries of what a club experience can offer. We’re talking chicken Schnitty at one end of the table and a medium rare, grain fed porterhouse at the other. It’s a versatile spread that should satisfy all appetites.
