Mr Percival's

The octagonal overwater spot at Howard Smith Wharves serves up seafood, spritzes and European beachside vibes.
Sarah Ward
August 30, 2023

Overview

Nestled into the fast-growing Howard Smith Wharves precinct underneath the Story Bridge, Mr Percival's looks out over the Brisbane river — and, if that's not enough, the octagonal bar and restaurant is actually perched right on top of it.

Here, you can grab a beverage and a bite to eat while both peering at the snaking central waterway and sitting in a structure elevated above it. When it opened, it became Brissie's first venue of its type since Oxley's on the River in Milton was destroyed in the 2011 floods — although Mr Percival's is less about sit-down dinners and more focused on chilling out in a scenic and stylish spot.

From 11am every day, Brisbanites can relax in a watering hole that's been designed with European beach clubs and the Brisbane's own park rotundas equally in mind. Think decking, six arched doorways, outdoor seats with a view underneathpink umbrellas, plus an indoor colour scheme that takes inspiration from the Mediterranean. Star windows, round lights, eye-catching wallpaper, 70s-style upholstered chairs, terracotta marble and a brass-fronted bar round out the hangout's inside decor, which was overseen by Brisbane interior designer Anna Spiro.

Mr Percival's menu aims to match its look and feel. Unsurprisingly, seafood features heavily among the range of small and large plates.

As for the drinks selection, it includes three types of spritz, spicy watermelon margaritas, shared cocktail jugs and more — plus rosé, bubbles, aromatic whites and light reds among the vino range. Beer-wise, Mr Percival's keeps things super local by pouring four brews from fellow HSW spot Felons through its taps.

And if you're wondering about the moniker, it's a nod to Australia. Pelicans are a common waterside sight around the country, and the 1976 Aussie classic film Storm Boy — which was remade in 2019 — features a pelican called Mr Percival.

Information

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