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Best Things to do in New Farm

Updated: Apr 27, 2025

The historic inner city suburb of New Farm with its expansive river frontage, iconic park, indie arts hub the Brisbane Powerhouse and village lifestyle, is a mecca of fantastic things to do. 

From arts and culture to shops, walks, parks and cafes, here are some of the neighbourhood gems you need to discover:

It’s hard to find a more iconic venue than Brisbane Powerhouse. Spend a night or relaxing Sunday afternoon at Brisbane’s premier arts venue indulging in the spectacle of the weird and wonderful
The city’s grandest century old park, a sprawling 15 has space, is the green heart of the inner city, with rose gardens, rotunda, massive fig tree playground and more
The Junk Bar is a swoon-worthy, retro drinking den and live music bar in a landmark historic building in New Farm
Since 1975, this sliver of Italy in New Farm has kept locals supplied with their fix of cheese, cured meats, and more
Officers Mess is a all-day riverfront diner located in a former naval base dating back to 1943
Dicki’s in New Farm is changing the concept of veganism, creating the most delicious plant-based dishes that appeal to every diner – not just vegans
A charming, specialty coffee cafe in New farm offering organic, plant-based fare along with vintage wares & potted plants
Joedy's Cafe, opposite New Farm Park, provides delicious foodie fare for breakfast & lunch, along with specialty coffee
Mary Mae's is a sprawling New Orleans-inspired riverside bar restaurant on the ground floor of the Brisbane Powerhouse
In the heart of Merthyr Village lies this one stop emporium for books, gifts, trinkets, kidstuff and lovely things for the home.
Grape and Grazing is a boutique deli, providore, wine and cheese bar that also sells beautiful unique picnic wares located in New Farm.
The iconic Village Twin Cinema, renamed New Farm Cinemas, features the famous Purple Room in fully restored glory
The nearest thing to a true taste of France to be found on these shores, Chouquette is a heaven-sent little boulangerie patisserie
Located in one of Brisbane's well-heeled suburbs, this op shop has a great selection of designer brands when it comes to fashion
Hey Mr. is a buzzy neighbourhood cafe in New Farm housed in a historic corner store dishing up delicious all-day brunch fare
A stalwart on the New Farm bar scene, this rustic art deco cocktail joint behind the chrome and oak doors is the spot for a cosy tete a tete.
Located along Merthyr Road in New Farm, lies Brisbane’s hub for wholesome decadence, Mylk + Ko.
Located at the end of Brunswick St is this cosy cafe with views overlooking the Brisbane River and New Farm Park
À la Bonne Franquette is a French deli and takeaway spot located on Brunswick Street in New Farm
A French-inspired patisserie cafe in the heart of New Farm offering fresh croissants, pastries, baguettes, gelati and more
Heal House is Brisbane’s most exclusive guest house – a magnificent historic Queenslander with just three luxury suites tucked away in a quiet New Farm Street.
Hellbound is serving exclusive spirits, craft beers and American-inspired dishes in their edgy New Farm bar.
Spicers Balfour is a traditional Queenslander converted into this sublime guest hotel that is in a class of its own
The best things are almost always found in out of the way places and no more so than Double Shot Espresso
This gallery is one of Brisbane’s leading art spaces, showcasing the best of contemporary Australian art
These markets with the imposing backdrop of the old power station, are a Brisbane foodie's paradise
This walk of around an hour and a half to two hours, depending on stops, begins at New Farm CityCat Terminal
Merthyr Bowls Club is arguably the pick of venues for a weekend game of barefoot bowls.
Is it a bar or a restaurant – both really, but who cares when you’re sitting on the wide jutting balcony inhaling the cool river air
The Moray might be one of New Farm’s oldest cafes, but it has a cool contemporary look and menu
Be transported through India and Nepal at New Farm Curry House, offering authentic cuisine from curries to momos
This leafy riverside trail of around 6km return includes the option for a meander through the ex convict farm and racecourse that is now the splendid New Farm Park
Blue Bear Coffeehouse is a charming, folksy cafe bar found on a leafy New Farm street corner serving delicious food
Common Vice is a laid-back neighbourhood eatery and bar on a leafy New Farm corner, a short stroll from Brisbane Powerhouse
Nestled in a leafy enclave close to the river and park, this character low-rise hotel with tranquil garden occupies a converted block of interwar flats.
This charming corner brasserie has been a constant crowd pleaser since opening over two decades ago
Brisbane's first vertical restaurant situated four storeys above ground has just opened, offering a unique, thrilling dining experience
Urban dogs and their owners love this one – a lovely oval of space flanked by the Powerhouse, the river and Cutters landing boardwalk.
Grand old dame of New Farm, The Brunswick Hotel has ushered in a new era as a gastro pub, garden bar and lounge bar.

A unique fashion boutique offering a curated range of quality fashion labels from Australia and overseas

Brisbane's first permanent outdoor cinema has opened at the Brisbane Powerhouse in time for summer 2023-24

The cosy and lively Teppanyaki bar and a la carte Japanese restauant is helmed by a chef who hails from Kabuki Teppanyaki 

The Sicilian chef owner brings four decades of restaurant experience to the table at Leonardo Pizzeria and Bar

Cartel Del Taco is a colourful 1980's inspired taqueria and bar bringing an authentic taste of Mexican street food and cocktails to New Farm

Looking to discover more hidden gems of Brisbane, check out our Guide to Brisbane Suburbs HERE! Happy exploring!

Image credits: 

Edito - courtesy of Edito Facebook page

Koya Teppanyaki - courtesy of Koya Teppanyaki Facebook page

Leonardo pizzeria and Bar - courtesy of Leonardo Pizzeria and Bar Facebook page

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