Overview
The days might be shorter, but that just means more time for hearty comforting food and cosy drinks. This winter, venues across South East Queensland are leaning into the seasonal spirit with themed menus, special events and plenty of reasons to gather with mates — from candle-making classes and Sunday brunches to al fresco spritz-filled sundowners. Whether you're craving riverside views, a playful new night out or just an honest winter feed, these nine venues are well worth rugging up for.
The Kenmore
From seasonal specials to boozy hot chocs, there are plenty of ways to enjoy The Kenmore's wisteria-filled courtyard this winter. Right now, the western suburbs gem is plating up a high tea for two for $45, with an option to add a two-hour drinks package for $30 a head. Or, pair your tower with a limited-time Bailey's or espresso martini hot chocolate, both of which are available throughout the season. For a more romantic outing, date night is sorted with a two-course dinner and a bottle of wine for just $99 per couple, available Monday to Friday.
The venue is also catering to groups, with a brand-new Sunday brunch menu running until the end of August — and no minimum spend to book the whimsical wisteria-framed courtyard for your next function.
The Jindalee Hotel
No plate is safe as The Jindalee plates up a taste of the Mediterranean this winter. The new Greek Feast menu is built for sharing, a generous spread that includes the likes of haloumi salad, slow-braised lamb shoulder and spicy loukaniko sausage pasta and is best paired with the island-inspired Santorini Sips cocktail menu (coconut marg, anyone?).
On Thursday, August 15, things get a little cheekier with Candy's Mama Mia Cabaret Show, an adults-only evening of drag, burlesque and interactive games, with a two-course dinner included. Then on Friday, September 19, test your knowledge at a Greek- and Mediterranean-themed trivia night with a two-course meal and prizes for the sharpest teams.
Riverland
Eagle Street's expansive al fresco hang-out is embracing the cooler months with a stacked winter lineup. You can wine and dine riverside at the new Scarlet Bottomless Brunch, backdropped by sweeping views of the Story Bridge and vibrant seasonal floral displays, with multiple package options starting at $40. Or, banish the midweek blues by settling in for Uncorked Wednesdays, complete with flowing wine, charcuterie and live music from 6–8pm for $69.
If you like your date night with a little sparkle, the Twilight Dinner for Two includes a curated three-course menu, riverside seating and soft city lights. For something more interactive, Wick & Sip and Sip & Sparkle offer a more hands-on experience — these expert-guided candle-pouring and earring-making workshops (plus a glass of wine) will be running all season.
Coomera Lodge Hotel
Coomera Lodge Hotel is dialling up the winter magic this season with four private igloos now open for bookings. Each one is decked out with twinkling lights, comfy seating and plenty of charm, perfect for intimate group hangs, special occasions or a snug date night — and you can settle in and order from the venue's seasonal winter menu to enjoy delicious eats and drinks delivered right to your dome. Whether you're escaping the chill or just looking to shake up the routine, this is winter dining with a side of wonder.
Burleigh Town Hotel
Claim bragging rights over your mates this season at Burleigh Town Hotel's Winter Play-Offs. Round up your crew for weekly game nights, running every Thursday through August, where you can test your skills (or just talk a big game) over food and drinks. The dedicated sports bar menu is made for fuelling the fun, packed with crowd-pleasers that pair perfectly with cold beers and friendly rivalries.
Hope Island Tavern
If you're craving a taste of Euro summer, Hope Island Tavern might be your next best bet. This winter, the Gold Coast venue is channelling sun-drenched afternoons on the Amalfi Coast with its Eurosummer menu of coastal bites, crisp spritzes and holiday-style ambience that invites guests to slow down and soak it in. On weekends, Aperitivo Arvo takes over from 2–5pm — $35 per person scores you a table of tapas and a spritz, best enjoyed under the sun with good company. Whether you're feasting or just grazing, this is your passport to a Euro-style escape, no boarding pass required.
Regatta Hotel
Toowong's stately Victorian watering hole is embracing the chill this winter with elevated comfort food and warming sips. Tuesdays bring hands-on fun with Crust Almighty, where you build your own pizza with a range of fresh ingredients, while Thursdays are home to The Winter Catch, a generous and deliciously messy seafood boil for two. In the courtyard, a two-person meze platter sets the tone for casual catch-ups — ideal for pairing with a mulled wine or cider, available all winter long.
Salt Bar
Kingscliff's Salt Bar is turning up the heat this winter with Festival of the Sun, a three-month celebration of flavour, creativity and community running through September. In addition to weekly live music on Fridays and Saturdays, Wednesday trivia and free kids' activities every Sunday, you can also head in for a Paint & Sip session on Thursday, August 14, or a Resin & Sip night on Thursday, September 18, both inviting you to get crafty with a glass of wine in hand.
Newnham Hotel
Escape to a dazzling Neon Winter Wonderland at the Newnham Hotel, where glowing lights, immersive decor and private igloos set beneath the stars set the scene for everything from date night to group hangs. Igloo bookings are available Tuesday to Sunday, with exclusive Friday and Saturday sessions priced at $30 per person and including a share board stacked with seasonal bites. The Upper Mount Gravatt spot — which unveiled a smart new look in February — will be home to this immersive seasonal experience until Sunday, September 21.
For more information — and to explore more great venues — download The Pass app.