Emporium South Bank is a new luxury hotel in Brisbane. It is ideally located by the river, in a pedestrian area, in the heart of city’s cultural area.
From Emporium Hotel most Brisbane attractions can be reached by foot, including Botanical Gardens, Eagle Street Pier dining precinct and Queen Street shopping.
While many city hotels cater to business travellers, Emporium would appeal the most to leisure guests. Emporium is a true lifestyle hotel, boasting incredible dining options, spa, outdoor heated wet-edge swimming pool and stylish rooms with incredible views of the city.
Arrival
It took us 25 minutes in a taxi to reach the hotel from the airport. It was around 5.30pm and there was a little wait at reception for check in.
The hotel was full during our visit and we hear that one has to book well in advance to secure a particular room type they like. High praise to the Emporium for being so busy, even during the pandemic. The hotel has won multiple awards since it opened its doors in 2018 and has already built up an excellent reputation amongst Australians.
Accommodation
We stayed in a River City King Room on the 12th floor. The view from the room is spectacular, especially at night. The room opens up onto a tiny Juliet balcony so you could admire the view out in the open.
There are a few cool design features we loved in the rooms. A huge gilded mirror frame on the wall opposite the bed turns into a TV at a push of a button; magic glass wall that separates bathroom and bedroom can be clear or frosted at a push of another button; also curtain controls by the bedside, oversized spa bath, fancy mini bar items. To me the hotel has a young, cheeky, sexy vibe – a perfect destination for a young couple, romantic getaway or girls’ weekend.
The hotel also features eight exquisite suites, all with individual appeal. Cabana suites open up directly onto the pool deck on level 21, great for those who love the sun. Would love to experience one of the Signature Suites during my next visit – stay tuned for the update.
Dining
Dining scene at the Emporium is sophisticated, yet fun. It appeals not only to the hotel guests, but to locals as well and it is always a good sign. Emporium rooftop terrace on level 21 is famous in Brisbane for its evening vibe, cocktails and Asian fusion cuisine.
Signature is a superb fine dining restaurant on Level 1. It has only 15 tables, so the atmosphere is elegant and intimate. It is a perfect venue for a dressy, romantic dinner. For an ultimate dining experience choose a set menu with matching wines. Attentive service, refined food and romantic ambiance will guarantee a night to remember.
For those who have a sweet tooth a visit to Belle Epoque is a must. This French Patisserie is famous for a delectable afternoon tea served with a glass of Perrier Jouet (or freshly brewed tea if that’s your preference) in a three-tiered stand complete with mini sandwiches, freshly baked scones, home made jam and creative cakes. A great place to catch up with the girlfriends or spoil your mum.
Facilities
Emporium boasts a heated wet edge outdoor rooftop pool, fitness room on level 21 with spectacular views and a spa offering basic beauty treatments.
Valet parking is also available to guests who drive or alternatively guests staying in the suites get access to the Maserati limousine to get around town in style (bookings required).
The Lux Traveller Loves
We loved very attentive, friendly, warm service. Staff tried their best to make us happy during the stay.
Stunning views from most rooms are spectacular and signature of the Emporium hotel experience.
Dinner at Signature was amazing, one of the best dining experiences I had in Brisbane, a ‘must-try’ for all locals and visitors.
Splitting Hairs
The hotel calls all rooms ‘suites’, which could be confusing, as there is only a handful of proper one-bedroom suites in the hotel.
Also, there are only a few sun lounges by the pool and they are on ‘first in, best dressed’ basis; might be an issue for sun-worshippers on a busy warm weekend.
All In All
Emporium South Bank is a very stylish lifestyle hotel in an excellent location. Due to an excellent stay we had I fell in love with the whole city. Highly recommended for romantic stays and for cheeky weekends away.
