Things to do in Paddington

33 things to do in Paddington

Paddington is the place to be for boutique shopping, after-work drinks, or a lazy weekend breakfast. Wander your way down the bustling Given and Latrobe Terraces to soak up the village lifestyle, and while you’re at it, tick these 33 things off your Paddington to-do list.

Paddington is a 10-minute bus ride from the CBD. Use your GoCard to catch the City Glider (bus 61) from Platform 1 in King George Square. The 385 and 375 buses will also take you there.

1. Brunch like you mean it

You know you’re in Paddington when the smell of bacon and coffee wafting through the air wakes you up in the morning. Locals love nothing more than taking a long and leisurely brunch date, and with so many great spots to choose from, it’s no wonder why.

2. Boutique shopping at its finest

Be prepared to shop ‘til you drop in Paddington, where boutique-lined streets entice you in with sparkling jewels, well-tailored pieces and statement accessories. Discover quirky colourful wears at Maiocchi, frost yourself at JewelsNY, browse through Australian designers at Petrol, find that perfect figure-hugging wrap dress at Sacha Drake, or find that stand-out piece for your next special occasion at Living Silk.

3. Eat all the burgers on Sunday and Monday

Remy's is known around town for their delicious burgers, salty fries and creamy milkshakes (the milo shake will take you back to simpler times). However, they're also known for the epic burger deals they do on Sundays and Mondays – 2-4-1 burgers on Sunday and half-priced burgers on Monday means the burgers are only $6!

4. Go old school

Paddington is home to some outstanding antique stores including the sizeable Empire Revival, housed inside the old Plaza Theatre and boasting an extensive range of jewellery, furniture, fashion and homewares. Further around the bend on Given Tce, Retro Metro sells top-quality retro clothing or head down pink lane to Ra Ra Superstar to find vintage style with a modern day attitude. Can’t get enough of pre-loved goods? Check out where else in Brisbane sells vintage finds.

5. Go gourmet at a deli

Pick up some fine fare to whip up a storm at home, or create a gourmet picnic with goods from Rosalie Gourmet Market. Cheese-lovers will be in heaven.

6. Beautify your home

Paddington is your one-stop-shop for beautiful homewares. Wander the French-inspired Blake and Taylor to find your new coffee table book or quality linen clothing, Olive Home for brightly coloured clothing and home accessories from Missoni, Weaves and Wonders for handmade rugs, ceramics and lamps, or redecorate with a range of quality fabrics and furnishings from Red Works.

7. Get your eat and drink on

Sharing is caring right? Little Social is serving up modern-Australian bites with a focus on share plates and grazing boards. Start with sand crab and corn fritters and meatballs in napoli sauce with a side of wine, beer or classic cocktails – this will get the conversation flowing. Plus, there's also large plates for the ultra-hungry individual.

8. Hit premium op shops

Rummage your way through the local Vinnies and Endeavour Foundation stores on Given Tce to pick up some second-hand wears. With everything from clothing and books to furniture and brick-a-brac, you’ll surely find a bargain.

9. Explore your creative side at Blake and Taylor

Known for new and recycled furniture and homewares, Blake and Taylor runs creative workshops ranging from chalk furniture painting and lampshade making to screen printing and floral arranging. Places are limited, so be sure to book in advance.

10. Health food kick at Fundies

Dine in at the Fundies Wholefood Café for breakfast or lunch, seven days a week. Known for dishing up wholesome, organic food that has been ethically sourced, you’ll find the likes of gourmet burgers, salads, smoothies and fair trade coffee on the menu. On your way out, pick up some pantry staples by the way of flours, cereals and nuts.

11. C'est délicieux

Classic and refined, Le Bon Choix is the little bit of France Paddington needs. Combining elegant sweet and savouries in a decked out old art-deco bank building, treat your palette to a number of French favourites – classic almond croissant, eclair, macaron, baguette or croque monsieur.

12. Inject some colour into your life

Thousand Island Dressing stocks beautifully decorative jewellery and homewares in brightly coloured materials including beads, wood and semi-precious gems. Stop by to pick up a unique, locally made gift for a friend.

13. Don't gnocch it 'til you try it

Rejoice, Brisbane's first gnoccheria has arrived! The popular market stall Gnocchi Gnocchi Brothersfinally has a permanent home in Paddington and is already an absolute hit with the locals. Made in-house daily, there is a selection of sauces (did someone say mushroom and truffle sauce) to pair with your gnocchi, including gluten free options.

14. It’s getting hot in here

Kettle and Tin’s annual Chili Cook Off draws crowds of people from around Brisbane who cast their votes for Brisbane’s best chili while sipping craft beer and cider (and lots of it at that!). The event is part of Brewsvegas, after all. The place will be hot, hot, chilli hot in March.

15. Spice up your life with healthy Indian

Whether you love a simple korma or prefer something a little spicier like a vindaloo, It’s Mirchi has it all. The extensive menu caters to all dietary requirements, and even includes healthy options. But don’t forget the gulab jamun for dessert!

16. Fabulous, Darling!

Locals will remember the prominent site as the former Iceworks Bar which has been transformed into Darling and Co, a sleek and sophisticated slashie (that’s café/bar/restaurant). The refined breakfast, lunch and dinner menus will have you salivating, while enjoying Brisbane’s almost year-round good weather in the breezy space.

17. The Unforgiven

We’ll forgive you if you’ve not been to Unforgiven. The candlelit venue boasts dark corners, plush leather couches and a well-stocked bar full of boutique spirits. You’ll find it tucked away under Darling and Co on Dowse St.

18. Catch the latest flick

Take your standard date night at the cinema to a whole new level at the Blue Room Cinebar. Relax in plush recliners while being served nibbles and drinks right to your seat.

19. From Italy, with love

Gerardo brings traditional Italian gelato-making techniques with his renowned flair for creative flavours to the streets of Rosalie at Gelateria Cremona. With over 200 flavours in his repertoire, you’re guaranteed to find that special gelato to make you go ‘yum!’ Be sure to visit for a post lunch or dinner treat.

20. Delizioso!

The passionate teams at Grappino and Il Posto have your Italian food cravings sorted with everything from spaghetti marinara to vitello saltimbocca or pappardelle all' anatra to a pizzetta dolce con nutella. They're the perfect place to take a long relaxing lunch – just like the Italians do.

21. Head east with a range of Asian flavours

Khot Thai is bang on the money with a reasonably priced menu full of classic Thai flavours. Favourites include the laksa, green curry and pad thai and they even cater to the vegetarian and gluten-free crowd.

Hai Hai Ramen on Latrobe Terrace is providing all the Japanese flavours with flavoured-packed, hot bowls of ramen noodles or find a whole lot of spice at Sichuan Bang Bang. Bringing us revolutionary and heat-packed dishes from the Sichuan region of China, enjoy pan-fried crispy beef with peanuts and dried chilli, Jung Pao chicken or prawns, or the fish hot-pot – emphasis on the 'hot'.

22. Do the Lindy Hop

Whether you’re a coordinated angel or have two left feet, Empire Swing will have you grooving to a variety of swing dance styles including the Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa and Blues. And best of all, no partner is required – so get jazzy!

23. Start a band

The Guitar Shop has all your gear sorted, whether you’re looking for a new guitar, banjo, mandolin, ukulele or lapsteel – you’ll find it here. If you rock out too hard, a repairs and maintenance service is available that’ll have you back on stage (or in your garage) in no time at all.

24. Fit for a princess

A dream made in wedding dress heaven, Karen Willis Holmes will have you looking like an ethereal princess on your big day. Her bohemian style focuses on classic silhouettes with detailed embroidery and embellishments taking simplicity to the next level. Pop into the boutique on Given Tce to turn your dream into reality.

25. Living the pooch life

Don’t leave your beloved four-legged friend at home on your next brunch date – Atticus Finch caters to all pooches great and small. Sip your coffee of choice while your furry friend makes canine friends of their own.

26. Ahoy there!

With its English seaside vibe and the British-influenced pub food, Hope and Anchor is Paddington's best little watering hole. Offering an extensive wine list and a variety of craft beers, this is the place to go at beer o'clock or after a hard day watching footy or soccer at Suncorp Stadium.

27. Fabrics galore!

Haberdashery stores are few and far between these days, but luckily Paddington has kept its charm (and gorgeous printed fabrics, lines and cushions) at Calico House. It’s a decorator's dream.

28. A little slice of Japan

Kon’nichiwa Brisbane! For tasty tapas Japanese-style, head to Moga on Baroona Rd. The casual garden setting is the perfect place to sip sake and savour fresh sashimi.

29. Stop to smell the roses

Found inside an old-style Queenslander cottage, Francesca’s Flowers is more than just a florist. Sit on the deck and enjoy coffee, tea and divine cakes surrounded by the fragrance of beautiful blooms. Keen to try your hand at floristry? Why not join one of the many workshops on offer.

30. Rug up

A good night’s sleep awaits when you have luxurious Manchester from Sheets on the Line. Selling the highest-quality linen, cotton and silk bedding, you’ll be sure to find a style that suits you without breaking the bank.

31. A belly full of laughs

Take a seat at the Sit Down Comedy Club for a night full of laughs from a host of local, national and international performers. Swing by the Paddo for dinner before or after the show.

32. Jet off to Italy

When in Rome, what do the Romans do? They eat! Enjoy large portions of your favourite dishes including fettucine carbonara, lasagne ala forno and all the pizza while dining on checkered tablecloths in front of a mural depicting Venice at Marinara Trattoria.

source: https://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/information/articles/activities/things-to-do-paddington?sc_lang=en-au

driving directions

Bowen Hills