The Five Best Garden Eateries in Brisbane

The sun is forever shining and those with hayfever are starting to sneeze, which means ones thing: spring is well and truly upon us. We at Concrete Playground thought it necessary to find the best garden eateries in Brisbane for you to enjoy these endlessly sunny days. From business lunches in the heart of the CBD, to weekend drinks, or garden spots that will have you shedding the winter woollies and basking in the warmth of spring, we hope you enjoy these dining delights.

Java Coast Café

Located on George Street in the CBD, this little oasis provides diners with a much needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Boasting a scrumptious array of lunch time turkish melts Java Coast Café is a cosy nook filled with yummy treats. Be sure to try the salmon, cream cheese and capers turkish melt – delicious! Don't be fooled by the unassuming entrance, the pebbled pathway down the side of the cafe leads to an expansive courtyard with towering palms and Buddha statues. The outside eating area is cool in the hot weather and is a popular choice for businessmen and women taking time out to grab a bite to eat. Unwind and recover your Zen in this relaxed cafe.

340 George Street, Brisbane CBD; 07 3211 3040; www.javacoastcafe.com.au

Gillian's Garden Café

Gillian's Garden Café is one of Brisbane's best kept secrets. Nestled inside the Cottage Garden Nursery in East Brisbane, this little gem is a green thumb's paradise. The combination of fresh ingredients, quality homemade meals and quirky décor is unbeatable. Although the cafe is open for breakfast and lunch, for something a little bit special, head to Gillian's Garden Café for a tasty morning tea. The variety of loose leaf teas and fresh cakes surrounded by healthy plants is a great way to start the day.

99 Stanley Street East Brisbane; 07 3391 1001; www.gilliansgardencafe.com.au

Lock 'n' Load Bistro

If you're after a drink on a lazy Sunday with friends, you can't go past Lock 'n' Load. A laid back vibe and a tranquil garden setting make this place a welcome weekend escape. The courtyard is filled with leafy trees and a cool ambience thanks to the eclectic music that plays unobtrusively. Lock 'n' Load provides an extensive cocktail menu filled with intriguing drinks. A Concrete Playground recommendation is the Jungle Juice, a delicious blend of Jagermesiter, Malibu, lime, mint, pineapple and ginger beer. What better way to see the week out than enjoying a drink in a secluded leafy haven?

142 Boundary Street West End; 07 3844 0142; www.locknloadbistro.com.au

Sassafras

Sassafras offers hearty meals such as their vegetarian big breakfast - a plate filled with organic scrambled tofu, toasted turkish bread, relish, tomato, avocado, homemade baked beans and mushrooms. This café is another example of those little wonders that appears larger on the inside than it looks from the outside. Inside the converted Queenslander you can take your pick from rooms with rustic furniture and splashes of colour or enjoy the fresh air in the outdoor seating area. As the weather warms up, Sassafras's outside dining area is pleasant and the tropical garden provides a private oasis. Their sharing platters are perfect to be enjoyed with a  group of friends.

88 Latrobe Terrace Paddington; 07 3369 0600; www.sassafrasfoods.com.au

The Corner Store Café

The Corner Store Café in Toowong incorporates a classic country veggie patch into their dining area.

Cheerful sunflowers, fresh herbs and vegetables and scrumptious food, such as their wide variety of homemade cakes and cookies make for a joyful experience. The menu is child friendly with breakfast, lunch and dessert options for littlies. For a lip-smacking lunch, try the lentil burger. For all of those who would love their own veggie patch but lack the time or skill, The Corner Store Café will provide a homely substitute.

113 Sylvan Road Toowong; 3870 2223; www.cornerstorecafe.com