Best Restaurants in Sandgate & Surrounds

Looking for the best restaurants in Sandgate and surrounds? From waterfront dining and fresh seafood to Italian, Indian, cafés, pubs and classic fish and chips, there are plenty of great places to eat around Sandgate, Shorncliffe, Brighton and nearby suburbs.

One of our favourite things about dining in Sandgate is that the local businesses place a lot of emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. This helps support local produce businesses, and in turn, we get to support those that support us!

Restaurants We Love

From seafood delights to sumptuous Italian, these restaurants have something unique to offer! There are restaurants big and small, Aussie cuisine or European, specialty foods and of course, don’t forget the desserts to match. Sandgate restaurants have something special to suit every palate.

Whether it’s the flavours or the atmosphere, we’ve created this list of favourites. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do!

The Sands Social

• 50 Keogh St, Sandgate QLD 4017

The Sands Social is one of the newest dining destinations in Sandgate, offering a variety of bars, dining options, and live music. We love how vibrant and welcoming The Sands Social is, with so many different entertainment options as well. The menu is varied, catering to different tastes and dietary needs, with plenty of options for families.

Local Tip: Don’t miss their Sunday sessions with live music and special drink deals.

Shorncliffe Yacht Club

• Sinbad Street, Shorncliffe QLD 4017

Officially called the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, it has a huge menu that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, (Thurs – Sun) this restaurant is a great choice for any time of the day. The waterfront location provides stunning views, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal. The club is casual yet refined, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood, grilled meats, and a variety of other dishes.

Local Tip: Brunch on the deck offers unbeatable views and a refreshing sea breeze.

Sandgate Chinese Restaurant

• 6 Brighton Rd, Sandgate QLD 4017

For those craving Chinese cuisine, Sandgate Chinese Restaurant has a wide selection of traditional dishes. This restaurant is a staple in the area and is known for its delicious, authentic Chinese food. If you’re in the mood for dumplings, noodles, or stir-fry, Sandgate Chinese Restaurant has something to satisfy.

Local Tip: The dumplings are a highlight on the menu; visit during lunchtime for a fresh batch.

Maharani Indian Restaurant

• Shop 1, 2421 Sandgate Road, Boondall QLD 4034

For those craving Indian cuisine, Maharani Indian Restaurant & Takeaway is the go-to spot in Boondall. Known for its amazing butter chicken, this restaurant has a delightful array of traditional Indian dishes. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

Local Tip: The butter chicken is a must-try; visit for dinner to enjoy it fresh out of the kitchen.

Il Forno Pizzeria

• 3 Third Ave, Sandgate QLD 4017

Located on Third Avenue in Sandgate, Il Forno Pizzeria is the go-to place for authentic Italian pizza. This pizzeria has a variety of hand-crafted pizzas made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. It’s a casual restaurant, with the option to dine inside or at one of the low-set tables outside.

Local Tip: Their Margherita pizza is a classic favourite, perfect for a casual dinner any day of the week.

Traditional India

• Shop 7/11 Bowser Parade, Sandgate QLD 4017

This family-owned gem in Sandgate invites you into a spacious dining room adorned with stunning paintings of India, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can also enjoy your meal al fresco with outdoor dining that lets you breathe in the fresh Sandgate air. The extensive menu has a delightful array of authentic Indian dishes, perfect for any palate.

Local Tip: The Lamb Rogan Josh is a standout dish; visit on weekends for a full dining experience.

Villa di Badia

• 19 Brighton Rd, Sandgate QLD 4017

Villa di Badia is a standout. A beautiful wine bar is the perfect complement to their exquisite Italian menu, which features a variety of classic dishes crafted with the finest ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a hearty pasta, a crisp salad, or a delectable dessert, Villa di Badia ensures a memorable experience.

Local Tip: Their tiramisu is the perfect way to end your meal, topped with a limoncello and prosecco cocktail dessert!

Cha’s Korean Kitchen

• 121C Brighton Rd, Sandgate Qld 4017

Cha’s Korean Kitchen has a delightful fusion of Korean and sushi cuisine. Their Korean sushi rolls are a must-try, combining the best of both worlds in a single bite. Stop by for a quick lunch or unwind over a relaxing dinner; Cha’s Korean Kitchen caters to all dining preferences.

Local Tip: The Korean sushi rolls are a must, so don’t go there with a full stomach!

Karwan Afghan Restaurant

• 2126/2128 Sandgate Road (Sue’s Korner), Boondall QLD 4034

Karwan Afghan Restaurant is bringing authentic Afghan cuisine to the local food scene. The food is not only incredibly tasty but also prepared with a commitment to authenticity. From aromatic spices to mouth-watering dishes, every meal is amazing.

Local Tip: The lamb kebabs are highly recommended, so visit for dinner to enjoy the full range of flavours.

Raffaele & Maria Italian Restaurant

• Shop 6/2421 Sandgate Rd, Boondall QLD 4034

For a taste of Italy in Boondall, Raffaele & Maria Italian Restaurant is the place to go. This family-owned eatery is known for its hand-cooked, authentic Italian dishes. The menu has a variety of classic Italian favourites, all made with love and high-quality ingredients.

Local Tip: Their hand-made gnocchi is delicious and perfect for dinner with family.

Sandgate Pubs

We’ve featured some of our favourite Sandgate pubs below, or you can explore our full guide to the best pubs in Sandgate and surrounds.

Full Moon Hotel

• 118 Eagle Terrace, Sandgate QLD 4017

The Full Moon Hotel’s restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu has an array of options including seafood dishes, steaks, burgers, and salads. The relaxed ambience makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal.

Local Tip: Stop by on a weekend for their live acoustic sessions paired with a refreshing drink.

Bracken Ridge Tavern

• 154 Barrett St, Bracken Ridge QLD 4017

Bracken Ridge Tavern is a hotspot, and if you love steak and ribs, this place is a must-visit. The menu has traditional pub food like seafood, pasta, and burgers, along with a kid-friendly menu, so it’s perfect for families. Regular live music and events add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Local Tip: Check out their steak night specials for a hearty and affordable meal.

Brighton Hotel Qld

• 196 Brighton Terrace, Brighton QLD 4017

The Brighton Hotel Brisbane has a comfortable atmosphere, and the seasonal menu highlights fresh, local dishes with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those needing gluten-free choices. The relaxed, community-focused atmosphere is perfect for meals with friends or family.

Local Tip: Friday night has live music, which makes it a fun night out with a relaxed dinner.

Sandgate Fish and Chip Shops

We’ve rounded up some of our favourite Sandgate fish and chip shops below, or you can explore our full guide to the best fish and chips in Sandgate and surrounds.

Sandgate Fishmonger

• 90 Flinders Parade, Sandgate QLD 4017

Right on the Sandgate foreshore, Sandgate Fishmonger is a standout spot in the area, known for its beautiful calamari, gelato, and spectacular views. This casual eatery has a simple menu focused on fresh seafood, with the calamari being a particular highlight. It’s relaxed and family-friendly here, which makes it a great spot for a quick, delicious meal by the water.

Local Tip: Visit during the late afternoon to enjoy their famous calamari while watching the sunset over the water.

Flinders Seafood & Bar

• 196 Flinders Parade, Sandgate QLD 4017

Set on Flinders Parade opposite the picturesque waters of Moreton Bay, Flinders Seafood & Bar (also known as Fish on Flinders) is a favourite for fresh seafood. This casual seafood restaurant is perfect for a quick meal after a swim at the Sandgate Pool or a day out by the bay.

Local Tip: The fish and chips are best enjoyed after a swim at the nearby Sandgate Pool.

Sandgate Cafes

We’ve highlighted some of our favourite Sandgate cafés below, or you can explore our full guide to the best cafés in Sandgate and surrounds.

Myrtle & Blossom

• 1 Loudon St, Sandgate QLD 4017

Myrtle & Blossom is a relaxed Sandgate café with a strong focus on seasonal produce, local suppliers and food made with genuine creativity. Our editor Jodie and I recently visited to taste-test our way through the menu, and we were seriously impressed by just how much thought goes into every dish.

The menu changes with the seasons, with ingredients sourced directly from local farmers, growers and artisan producers. Some produce even comes from Myrtle & Blossom’s own home market garden. Sustainability is part of the philosophy too, with kitchen waste composted or fed to their chickens wherever possible.

We tried a generous selection from the breakfast, brunch and lunch menu, and this definitely isn’t your standard café fare. Familiar ingredients are given clever twists, with beautifully presented dishes and some combinations you probably won’t find elsewhere around Sandgate.

If you want to see exactly what we ate and what we thought, read our Myrtle & Blossom taste-test and review for a closer look at the menu and our favourite dishes.

Local tip: Myrtle & Blossom is licensed too, with Queensland wines from the South Burnett and Granite Belt alongside craft beers, including brews from nearby Banyo brewery All Inn Brewing Co.

Baaia

• 94 Flinders Parade, Sandgate QLD 4017

Baaia has more than just great food; it provides stunning views of the bay. This café is a popular spot for brunch, with a menu that has a variety of seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. A great place to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the beautiful scenery.

Local Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot and enjoy a leisurely brunch with stunning bay views.

Matthew Thomas

• 50 Eagle Terrace, Sandgate QLD 4017

Matthew Thomas is known for its delicious menu and inviting atmosphere. It’s a great spot for breakfast or lunch, with a menu that includes a range of sweet and savoury dishes made with high-quality ingredients. The decor is cute and comfortable, so it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Local Tip: Their fluffy pancakes and waffles are a breakfast staple; visit early to avoid the rush.

Capulet & Co

• 95 Brighton Rd, Sandgate QLD 4017

Capulet & Co is in the heart of Sandgate and has a diverse menu and delicious coffee. The chic decor and relaxed atmosphere make it popular for dining, and the menu includes a range of breakfast and lunch options, all made with high-quality ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a healthy salad or a decadent treat, Capulet & Co has all you need.

Local Tip: Visit for lunch and try their delicious gourmet salads made with seasonal ingredients.

The Witchin’ Kitchen

• 227 Rainbow St, Sandgate QLD 4017

The Witchin’ Kitchen has a quirky and vibrant atmosphere and is known for its healthy, organic, and homemade offerings. The café opens early and is a great spot for breakfast. Their menu focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available.

Local Tip: Their organic breakfast bowls are a hit; visit in the morning for the freshest ingredients.

Casual Spots

While Sandgate is home to some fantastic restaurants, there are also plenty of casual spots where you can kick back and enjoy a few hours. Mr Henderson is a favourite for its great beers on tap, extensive wine selection, and classic cocktails. It’s a BYO food venue, so you can pack a picnic or grab some takeaway from nearby places.

• Cardigan Bar, a laneway bar, has a small menu of cheeses, dips, and bruschetta and allows you to bring your own snacks.
• Sandgate Golf Club provides a scenic nine-hole course.
• Sandgate Hawks and Brighton Bulldogs both offer general canteen food, perfect for a quick bite during a game.

These spots may not be traditional restaurants, but they’re excellent when you’re spending quality time in and around Sandgate.

So, there you have it! While our list is pretty extensive, we’ve probably missed some of your favourite Sandgate dining options. If so, we’d love to hear from you! In the meantime, get out there, make some bookings at these fantastic places to eat and tell us what you think of the local cuisine! We love it, and we’re sure you will, too.

Tell us about your favourite spots or dishes in the comments below, and let us know what makes them special for you.

Are You a Foodie?

We also know where to find:

• The Best Bakeries in and around Sandgate
• Our Favourite Coffee Shops and Cafes locally
• Top Pubs for a Lunch or Dinner
• The Best Fish & Chip Shops around Sandgate