Mosconi

Mosconi is chic 2 level European wine bar and restaurant found in an old war igloo in Fortitude Valley, just off James St.

Occupying one of 3 ex-World War II surplus buildings in a line, Mosconi would have to be one of Brisbane's most unique and charming venues - a real hidden treasure that is worth seeking out.

Decor at Mosconi is Euro-chic, with curved timber bar, mosaic floors, marble-topped tables, banquettes and Bentwood chairs. On the ground floor is the bar and a handful of dining tables and chairs while upstairs under the curved tin roof is a cosy intimate dining room with timber floors, back-lighting and wraparound wine wall in one corner.

The owners are also behind longtime New Farm Italian institution Vine and they have brought their considerable hospitality nous to Mosconi with its exquisite food menu and impressive wine collection to match the gorgeous setting. Here guests can indulge in some of the best food in the Valley or simply pop in and enjoy a glass or more of wine.

Small plates range from local Danny's sourdough with warmed mixed olive and whipped ricotta to Zucchini flower with vialone nano rice, smoked tomato and bagna cauda to Hirramasa kingfish crudo, scampi caviar, mandarin and horseradish or Fremantle octopus with cannellini beans, salmoriglio and tomato.

Other delicious choices include the Fremantle octopus with cannellini beans, salmoriglio and tomato, Brisbane Valley quail with beetroot carpaccio, gorgonzola and walnut or the Mooloolaba prawns, nduja and pepperonata.

Maina are equally delectable with the likes of Moreton Bay bug ravioli, crustacean oil and saltbush; Homemade pipe regate with duck ragu, guanciale and crispy sage both recommended.

Even the sides are divine - think broccolini with celeriac cream and grounded nuts; young potatoes with garlic and pecorino pepato or zucchini, asparagus, pea and radish salad.

And for dessert there's the likes of fig, burnt meringue and lemon curd, dark chocolate, espresso and hazelnut or cheese with seeded bread and pear relish.

Meanwhile the impressive wine list features a curated range of Italian and French wines, as well as Spanish and a smattering of Tasmanian and Victorian wine.

The menu may have changed since our visit.

See our full list of the best Italian restaurants in Brisbane HERE

Check out our full list of Fortitude Valley bars HERE

Still hungry for more suggestions on where to eat out in Brisbane, head to our comprehensive Eat & Drink section HERE! Happy grazing!