Bar Alto
Editorial
Surprisingly the deconstructivist bombsite chic of Bar Alto makes you feel right at home - it isn't too jugi to make you feel like you have to be on your best behaviour. You can let your coattails out amongst the concrete floors and chipped brick walls with paint pieces blasted off the wall - the vibe is cool and classy without being pretentious. Regular clientele includes a good mix of family groups, arty types and a smack of vibrant Gen-Y youth that keep this bar with a view ticking over.
Located just a hop, skip and a jump from Brisbane's performing arts district, the Alto has an Italian inspired menu and is perfect for alfresco wining and dining. Sit outside and enjoy the river views sipping a Stella Bella Semillon Sauvignon Blanc from Margaret River.
The open kitchen-as-theatre makes you feel more relaxed about what the hell they ARE doing back there to your food - it's like an extension of whatever live show you've just seen - watching the chefs stress and sweat over your foodie creation adds to the overall REALNESS and authenticity of the Bar Alto drinking and dining experience.
The wine list is delightful with plenty to choose from. It's easy drinking all the way with lots of lighter reds and whites for that outdoor drinking and dining which Brisbane is getting better at. Try the Wirra Wirra 'Mrs Wigley' Grenache for a perfect starter to anything you wind up drinking after, it's a lovely light rose from McLaren Vale SA for just $8 a glass, or $34 a bottle.
Divine French champagnes and sparkling wines go along with the unbearable lightness of outdoor dining and all the usual amber suspects are available - local and imported beers, by the bottle or on tap.
Peckish? Try the goat ragu or quail saltimbocca - examples of the extra mile that Bar Alto goes to: impeccably presented with top quality ingredients. Most mains are between $24-$28 and entrees about $15.
Meri Harli, September 2010
User Feedback
Melinda Barry-Sm
December 24, 2007
Bar Alto is a sophisticated yet unpretentions gem.Ciabatta at $2 per person is amazing value. The bread comes warm and you anoint it in the EVOO placed on your table.Goat Ragu on homemade Parpadelle.Waygu is over, goat is the new black. $14. I move onto the gelato , this is crafted with a deft hand. Chocolate & plum gelato 3 scoops $8. The gelato would be perfect to share. The service here is spot on. It’s a great place for a special occasion but it still has a nice laid back artsy vibe too.
Your Feedback
1 User review (add yours)