Ipswich, that place at the end of the train line that you’ve heard about but have never actually been to. Yep, that is indeed the same Ipswich we’re talking about. And that’s just the thing, we really need to talk about it. Ipswich has actually got some seriously good restaurants these days—some that might even convince you to make the 40-minute drive out there.
Here’s where to find the best restaurants in Ipswich—better wear loose pants.
That Dumpling Place
Nicholas Street Precinct, Ipswich
were the first retailers to set up shop in Ipswich’s $250 million Nicholas Street dining hub, and you can tell they've gotten their practice in. Northern Chinese home-style dumplings are dished up here, and done so lightning-quick. Poached, steamed or pan-fried, whichever option you go with you’re guaranteed that perfect chewiness-to-filling-ratio. They also have an array of other mains like pork belly braised in soy sauce and salt and pepper squid but you’ll see us scolding our own mouths with xiao long bao at least 14 times.
La Parilla
14 Pine Mountain Road, Ipswich
Discover the vibrant flavours of South American barbecue at who’ve recently set up shop at the ‘Switch. This lively eatery offers a feast for the senses with sizzling grills, juicy cuts of meat, and authentic sides that are worth the car trip. Whether you're indulging in succulent ribs, tender steaks, or flavourful sausages, every bite is a loud tribute to South American culinary heritage.
Monte Lane
160 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
Image Credit: Monte Lane | Website
The Ipswich CBD is now home to Monte Lane, a charming laneway wine bar and restaurant perfect for savouring a glass of red over Mediterranean-inspired share plates and wood-fired pizzas. With interiors reminiscent of a European street and a cosy undercover laneway ideal for date nights, Monte Lane is a must-visit whether you're a local or not. The refined wine list features everything from moscato to pet nat, complemented by delicious bites like cheese and charcuterie boards, crispy roasted potatoes, and burrata with figs, prosciutto, pomegranate, and crostini. For heartier appetites, there's also wood-fired slices from Mike’s Pizza. If wine isn't your thing, Monte Lane also offers a killer cocktail list and a rotating selection of beers on tap.
Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers
2 The Terrace, North Ipswich
Australia’s first gnoccheria, initially captured our hearts with their fluffy gnocchi at market stalls and their dedicated Paddington location. Now, with their Ipswich venue open in the Riverlink Shopping Centre, pasta fiends now have even more chances to indulge in their delicious potato pasta. Alongside beloved bowls like traditional beef bolognese, pork and fennel Italian sausage, and wild mushroom and truffle, the new venue offers a variety of sides perfect for snacking with a glass of wine, including truffle salted potato chips, prosciutto platters, and salt and pepper calamari. Don’t miss out on the sweet endings either—ricotta cannoli or rich tiramisu are the perfect finish to a Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothers meal.
The Rusty Nail
Nicholas Street Precinct, Ipswich
Whether it be an intimate date night or large function, boy can this cocktail and tapas bar accommodate. Located in the bustling Nicholas Street precinct, whip up an impressive array of shareable eats and classic sips with interesting twists. Tuck into herb and garlic honey Saganaki, boa buns filled with slow-cooked beef with Harissa sauce and mango relish, and melt-in-your-mouth arancini with pesto mayonnaise. They even boast an underground wine bar, the perfect moody setting to complement their extensive drink list (that white lychee martini is a NEED, not a want).
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Heisenberg Haus
164 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
Image Credit: Heisenberg Haus | Facebook
Breaking Bad fans might want to hit up this spot just because of its namesake, Walter White’s alter-ego—but that’s not the only reason to visit. is a stunning German joint with the best nibblies this side of Bavaria. The exposed brick walls and warm lighting are the perfect backdrop for taking Insta-worthy snaps, before digging into a heaping serve of your fave German dishes. We’re talking frankfurter, bratwurst, chicken schnitty—the works. Top it all off with apple strudel for dessert and you may just convince yourself you’re dining in the lively streets of Hamburg.
Stony Creek Brewing
88 Limestone Street, Ipswich
In the heart of Ipswich, is the destination to unwind with your crew, a crisp local craft beer in one hand and a warm baked pretzel in the other. Their menu is not to be slept on–get your hands around a mac and cheese burger with pulled brisket and smokey BBQ sauce, indulge in a slice (or five) of pork and fennel pizza, and snack on the likes of popcorn cauliflower and halloumi fries. Complete with regular live music, trivia, and a bangin’ drinks list, what more could you want for your Sunday sesh?
Bakehouse Steakhouse
Cnr Darling Street E and West Street, Ipswich
Built using the historic brick facade of an 1800s bakery, is a longstanding pillar of the Ipswich community. But Bakehouse isn’t your typical steakhouse—you won’t find worn leather bar stools or 80’s music memorabilia lining the walls. Instead you’ll be greeted with splashes of pastel pink, pristine white benchtops, and a beautiful backlit bar. Steaks are their specialty, but there’s plenty more on the menu, including finger food to snack on while you snap selfies in the courtyard. Sounds like our kind of steakhouse.
Phat Boyz Smokehouse and Kitchen
7001 Parkland Drive, Walloon
Image Credit: Phat Boyz Smokehouse & Kitchen | Facebook
's warehouse eatery might be massive, but you’ll still want to book a table in advance, because word is out about this spot and it is popular, to say the least. Why? Because their barbecued meats are some of the best you’ll find on this side of the Pacific. Lock in a night for their Ultimate Platter, featuring smoked wagyu brisket, pulled pork, jalapeno and cheese links, wings, pork ribs, slaw, fries, mac ‘n’ cheese and chargrilled corn.
Ruby Chews
Riverlink Shopping Centre, North Ipswich
Locally known as having the best burgers in Ipswich, offers a modern twist on your classic American burger bar. Their deceptively-simple menu is packed full of flavour, with rich, creamy ice cream churned fresh on-site daily. Ruby’s chilli cheese dog is an ode to a classic East-coast snack, and their fries-and-soda combo is the perfect addition to any meaty meal. Be sure to order some of Ruby’s special sauce to take your fry game to the next level.
Char’d
170 Brisbane Road, Booval
The Prince Alfred Hotel’s award-winning restaurant is a must-do for anyone wanting a true taste of Ipswich. The team at consists of local producers and international chefs determined to treat their guests to the ultimate paddock-to-plate dining experience. Open from 11am ‘til late, treat yourself to a sizzling wagyu steak roll for lunch, or a Southern-style parmigiana for dinner. The restaurant does offer takeaway, but trust us—The Prince Alfred’s leather lounges and elegant interiors are worth dining out for.
Indian Mehfil
116 Brisbane Street, Ipswich
For 10 years, Ipswich residents have been raving about the delectable dishes coming out of ’s kitchen. Their eight-page menu offers a range of authentic dishes made by expert chefs intent on showcasing the very best of Indian culture. We recommend splurging on a choose-your-own banquet, where you’ll be treated to a mixed platter entree, multiple curries, plus your choice of breads and sides. Be sure to bring a friend to help finish it all.
Heading further west? Check these out:
Image Credit: Nicholas Street Precinct | Facebook
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