Esquire - Brisbane

Everything was lacklustre  I dined here with my friends on a Saturday evening: - Service was poor - waiter did not bring us a drinks list and then was... read more Everything was lacklustre  I dined here with my friends on a Saturday evening: - Service was poor - waiter did not bring us a drinks list and then was unable to recommend wine pairings with the meals. The waiter did not take my order at the same time as the rest of the table. Our meals were all brought out at different times, I had finished while others had not received their mains. The waiter recommended that we share desserts and there was not enough to go around. Two of us shared a bottle of wine - the wine was stored somewhere away from the table - when we had finished our glass, they were not refilled. We decided to only pay for the glass as we had finished our mains by this time.  - Food was average. Not what I was expecting of a "varied and innovative restaurant." Grilling 5 prawns and placing a lemon wedge beside it was as creative as it got! I will not be recommending on to my friends!

What a shame to walk into a 3 hatted restaurant and be sweating from the lack of aircon for over 2 hours. I like to be comfortable when eating, specially when a... read more What a shame to walk into a 3 hatted restaurant and be sweating from the lack of aircon for over 2 hours. I like to be comfortable when eating, specially when a degustation is on offer. Other than that, the food and service was great. The standout dish was the agnolotti with bisque basil oil. I could eat this dish ever single day it was that good! Very simple yet complex dish. The twice cooked duck was an elevated dish. No bones, cooked to perfection and with a beautiful crispy outer layer. This was served with black garlic and pickled plum. Very creative and different way of serving duck. The popcorn parfait with tarrragon was unique and a beautiful ending.

Review in four words? Go To Urbane Instead. Disappointment from start to finish. Given a bad table despite an email from them saying they had reserved one of t... read more Review in four words? Go To Urbane Instead. Disappointment from start to finish. Given a bad table despite an email from them saying they had reserved one of the best table. They argued the point a little, but gave me an OK one eventually. Service overall was a little on the abrupt, unfriendly side. The food was a let down. Standout tomato dish with bread to mop up. Other than that, nothing else memorable. The cotton cake was a little unpleasant to eat. Couldn't eat blueberry and ginger dessert. The snacks were pleasant enough but not presented nicely and the fish dish was OK. Matching wines not that great. I found an orange Shiraz unpleasant and the staff member basically told me what a good choice it was and didn't offer to replace. Such a nice setting overlooking the river, and an open kitchen is always good. Got to think some diners prefer style over substance. The concept of this is much better than the reality.

I've been to esquire only twice but have thoroughly loved my experience each time. The food is interesting and outstanding. The service is always attentive but... read more I've been to esquire only twice but have thoroughly loved my experience each time. The food is interesting and outstanding. The service is always attentive but without being overbearing. The decor is modern but still comfortable. With views over the Brisbane River and story bridge, it's got so much going for it. We had the benefit of sitting 6 at a round table which was great for conversation. Can't wait to go back.

The degustation set menu including paired wines was absolutely incredible. I can say without hesitation that was the most phenomenal dining experience I've had... read more The degustation set menu including paired wines was absolutely incredible. I can say without hesitation that was the most phenomenal dining experience I've had the pleasure of enjoying so far. Look up their prices before booking so you know what you're in for, but if the price is right then you can bet the food will be sensational.