POPOLO

POPOLO is an Italian restaurant in Brisbane’s South Bank, set within the River Quay precinct. Its menu covers a broad Italian-style spread, from starters and wood-fired-style pizzas to handmade pasta, seafood, meat dishes, sides and desserts. The approach is described as regional, simple and fresh, with a strong focus on generous restaurant dining rather than a limited casual offering.

There is plenty to choose from for a shared meal. Starters include green Sicilian olives, ricotta and spinach gnudi, porcini arancini, burrata with eggplant caponata and flash-fried calamari. The pizza list includes Margherita, Diavola, Tartufata and Salsiccia, while the pasta section ranges from pappardelle with slow-braised beef cheek ragù to ravioli with cacio pepe and truffle, gnocchi Sorrentina and linguine with Moreton Bay bugs, spanner crab and lobster bisque. Seafood and larger plates continue with mussels, confit duck leg, lamb cutlets, risotto, toothfish and Wagyu beef rump tagliata.

Desserts keep the Italian influence in view, with tiramisu, Neapolitan rum baba and pistachio panna cotta among the options, alongside chocolate cake and lemon cheesecake. The menu also marks vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free choices, although the restaurant notes that its kitchen contains allergens and that cross-contact cannot be completely ruled out.

The setting is a major part of the experience. POPOLO describes itself as a riverside restaurant with views across Brisbane, offering a more polished atmosphere for an intimate meal or an elegant function. Chef Francesco and manager Katelyn are named as the people welcoming guests, with the restaurant pairing its food with a wine offering. It suits diners looking for a considered Italian meal in South Bank, whether sharing dishes with friends, settling in for a special occasion or booking a private-style group gathering.