If you’re a foodie living in Brisbane, chances are you’ve noticed some changes in the local food scene lately. Gone are the days when the only way to discover new restaurants was through word-of-mouth or print reviews. Nowadays, social media is king, and it’s changing the way we experience and share our food.
In recent years, food influencers have become a driving force in the food industry. These social media stars have large followings who rely on their recommendations for the latest food trends, restaurants, and dishes. Influencers have become so powerful that some restaurants now offer them free meals in exchange for a shoutout on social media. This new type of marketing has completely changed the game for restaurants, and many are now putting just as much effort into creating dishes that look good on Instagram as they do into creating dishes that taste good.
But it’s not just the influencers who are impacting Brisbane’s food culture – it’s also the everyday people who are constantly sharing photos of their meals on social media. In fact, over 50% of Australians admit to taking photos of their food before eating it. It’s become so commonplace that many restaurants now have signs encouraging guests to share their experiences on social media with specific hashtags.
The importance of visually appealing food cannot be overstated in today’s social media-driven world. A dish that looks good on Instagram can make a restaurant go viral and attract droves of new customers. In fact, some restaurants have even started to design dishes specifically for Instagram, with bright colors, unique shapes, and over-the-top garnishes. This has led to a new trend in the food industry: the “Instagrammable” restaurant. These restaurants are designed to be highly photogenic, with well-lit spaces, interesting decor, and dishes that are practically begging to be photographed.
Where are these coveted places you may ask? We’ve listed a few of our faves which have earned a spot in both our hearts, and our grids!
- First up is Happy Boy, a vibrant Chinese-inspired restaurant located in Fortitude Valley. The restaurant’s playful decor and colorful dishes have made it a popular spot among food bloggers and influencers. Some of their most Instagram-worthy dishes include the ‘Har Gow’ dumplings and their signature roast duck.
- Another trendy spot is Morning After, a trendy cafe located in West End. Known for their Instagram-worthy breakfast dishes, Morning After’s menu includes colourful smoothie bowls, towering pancakes, and beautiful avocado toasts. With a minimalist decor and plenty of natural light, it’s no wonder that Morning After has become a favourite among social media influencers.
- If you’re in the mood for some pizza, look no further than Julius Pizzeria in South Brisbane. This Italian restaurant serves up some of the best pizza in town, but it’s their colourful cocktails that have really caught the attention of Instagram users. From the bright pink ‘Rhubarb Sour’ to the green ‘Jalapeño Margarita’, Julius Pizzeria’s cocktails are almost too pretty to drink.
- Last but not least is La Lune Wine Co., a wine bar located in South Brisbane. With a beautiful interior featuring a living wall and plenty of greenery, La Lune Wine Co. is the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy night out. Their menu includes a wide selection of wine and charcuterie boards that are perfect for sharing with friends and capturing the perfect food shot.
Restaurants aside, social media has also led to a surge in food-focused events and festivals in Brisbane. These events are designed to showcase the best of Brisbane’s food scene and attract social media influencers and foodies alike. From food markets to food truck festivals, there’s no shortage of food-related events to attend in Brisbane.
A few top contenders for food-focused events include:
- Regional Flavours – This annual event at South Bank celebrates the best of Queensland’s produce and culinary talent.
- Brisbane Night Noodle Markets – Held each year in July, this Asian street food festival is a must-visit for anyone who loves noodles, dumplings, and bao buns.
- Good Food & Wine Show – This three-day event showcases the latest trends in food and wine, with cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, and more.
It’s clear that social media is having a big impact on Brisbane’s food culture. From the rise of food influencers to the importance of visually appealing food, it’s changing the way we eat and experience food in the city. So, the next time you’re out exploring Brisbane’s food scene, remember to snap a picture and share it with your followers. Who knows, you might just become the next big food influencer!
