Customs House (UQ) Brisbane
Iconic heritage building on Brisbane River, offering fine dining, high tea, and stunning Story Bridge views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, perfect for high tea
Customs House (UQ) Brisbane
Best Time
Less crowded, perfect for high tea
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic heritage building on Brisbane River, offering fine dining, high tea, and stunning Story Bridge views.
"A grand blend of heritage, hospitality, and community impact with unbeatable riverside charm."
🎯 Book Riverside Table
Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. :seat:
✨ UQ Alumni Discount
If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverside Dining Terrace
Patina at Customs House
Savor Modern Australian cuisine with stunning views of the Story Bridge and Brisbane River. Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Heritage Architecture
The Long Room
Marvel at the magnificent colonial architecture, including the heritage-listed copper dome. An elegant backdrop for events and dining.
High Tea Experience
Patina at Customs House
Indulge in a delightful high tea with delicious treats and picturesque river views. A popular choice for a special afternoon.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Views
Dress Code & Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Riverside Table
Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. :seat:
✨ UQ Alumni Discount
If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. :moneybag:
What do you think are the most iconic places to visit in Brisbane, close to the CBD?
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for stunning photos of the river and Story Bridge. :camerawithflash:
🥂 Special Occasion Treat
Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations; they offer surprise desserts. :champagne:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Riverside Table
Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. :seat:
✨ UQ Alumni Discount
If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera for stunning photos of the river and Story Bridge. :camerawithflash:
🥂 Special Occasion Treat
Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations; they offer surprise desserts. :champagne:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Customs House is lauded for its stunning heritage architecture, prime riverside location with Story Bridge views, and excellent dining at Patina. Visitors rave about the high tea, the quality of Modern Australian cuisine, and the impeccable service, making it a top choice for special occasions and events. Some find it on the pricier side, but generally agree the experience justifies the cost.
"Customs House Brisbane – A Grand Blend of Heritage, Hospitality & Community Impact
Yesterday morning, I had the pleasure of attending a truly inspiring event at one of Brisbane’s most iconic venues — Customs House, located right in the heart of the CBD.
The occasion was the launch of “Understanding Australia’s Indian Communities: A Statistical Snapshot”, hosted by The University of Queensland. The event was a beautiful celebration of Indian-Australian friendship, diversity, and contribution, held in the magnificent Long Room under the heritage-listed copper dome.
From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was warm and dignified — the perfect setting for such a culturally significant and forward-thinking initiative. The University of Queensland team did a fantastic job in highlighting the vibrant role Indian communities play across Australia, supported by insightful presentations and meaningful data.
The venue itself, as always, was breathtaking. Customs House never fails to impress — with its grand colonial architecture, riverside location, and views of the Story Bridge. Whether it’s a high-profile event or a weekend brunch, the space offers elegance and character in every corner.
🥂 After the event, many guests gathered at Patina at Customs House, the in-house restaurant, for light refreshments. The service was seamless, the views unbeatable, and the quality — as always — top-tier. Whether it’s their modern Australian menu, high tea, or just a riverside coffee, Patina delivers every time.
⸻
✅ What I loved most:
• A perfect venue for meaningful community and cultural events
• Stunning architecture with riverside charm
• Thoughtful hosting by UQ — professional, inclusive, and inspiring
• Impeccable service at Patina restaurant
• Celebrating diversity in such a prestigious setting made the moment even more special
⸻
💬 Final thoughts:
Customs House is more than just a dining destination — it’s a symbol of connection, history, and progress. Yesterday’s event was a proud moment for the Indian-Australian community, and this venue brought it all together beautifully. Highly recommend it for both personal outings and professional events!"
Amit Kumar Madaan
"The lamb shoulder and rib fillet has always been great here, but the tempura bug was also delicious. The portion of the lamb shoulder is enough to share with 3 very hungry people (and yes we do eat large portions normally). Isaac and Joe provided excellent service as well. Being a UQ alumni gives a decent discount to the final bill. Would always come back here!"
Phil S
"We had high tea in the Patina restaurant alongside the river. It had lovely views and a nice set up.
The waiting staff were wonderful and attentive.
But most importantly the food was amazing!"
Lucy Hunter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Customs House is conveniently located in the CBD at 399 Queen Street. You can easily reach it by walking from the city center, taking a bus to nearby stops on Queen Street, or using the CityHopper ferry service which stops at the nearby Howard Smith Wharves. Parking is available at nearby city car parks.
Yes, Customs House is very accessible by public transport. The nearest bus stops are along Queen Street, and the CityHopper ferry service provides a scenic route to the nearby Howard Smith Wharves.
There are several paid parking stations in the Brisbane CBD near Customs House, including those at MacArthur Central and QueensPlaza. Street parking can be limited and metered.
Absolutely! Customs House is situated right in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, making it easily accessible for city workers and tourists alike.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from most parts of the Brisbane CBD to Customs House, especially if you enjoy strolling along the riverfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need tickets to enter the building or admire its architecture. However, reservations are highly recommended for dining at Patina restaurant, especially for high tea or dinner, to secure a table, particularly one with a river view.
Patina at Customs House typically serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with specific hours varying slightly. High tea is usually offered in the afternoon. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current opening times.
There is no entry fee to visit the public areas of Customs House. The cost is associated with dining at the restaurant or attending specific ticketed events.
Yes, you can visit the public areas of Customs House to admire its heritage architecture and enjoy the riverside location without making a dining reservation.
Customs House hosts various events, from corporate functions to cultural gatherings. While not always advertised as public tours, checking their events calendar or inquiring about UQ-related activities might reveal opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Patina at Customs House offers Modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. They are known for dishes like lamb shoulder, rib fillet, and tempura bug, as well as their popular high tea.
Many visitors find the high tea experience at Customs House to be excellent, praising the delicious food, attentive service, and lovely riverside setting. It's often recommended for special occasions.
While specific menus can change, Modern Australian restaurants like Patina typically offer vegetarian options. It's advisable to inform the staff of any dietary requirements when booking or ordering.
Dining at Customs House is considered mid-range to upscale, reflecting the quality of food, service, and the prime location. Expect main courses to be in the higher price bracket, with high tea having a set price per person.
Yes, Customs House is noted for having a very good wine selection, complementing their Modern Australian menu.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots include the riverside terrace with views of the Story Bridge, the grand Long Room with its copper dome, and the exterior colonial architecture. The surrounding riverwalk also offers great perspectives.
Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Customs House for personal use. However, for private events or specific exhibitions, restrictions may apply. Always be mindful of other patrons.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Evenings are also stunning with the city lights reflecting on the river.
For professional photoshoots, it's best to contact Customs House management in advance to inquire about permits and any associated fees, especially if using equipment like tripods.
Yes, Customs House offers fantastic, unobstructed views of the Story Bridge, making it a prime location for capturing this iconic Brisbane landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more casual experience, enjoying a coffee or a light snack on the terrace can be a good option. If you're attending an event, the grandeur of the building itself can be exciting for children. Just be mindful of the heritage setting and encourage respectful behavior.
🥂 Couples & Special Occasions
The attentive service, often highlighted by specific staff members like Marcel and Joe, adds a personal touch. The surprise dessert for anniversaries is a particularly thoughtful gesture. Combine dinner with a pre- or post-meal stroll along the river for a perfect evening.
💼 Business & Events
The University of Queensland's management ensures professional event planning and execution. The combination of stunning views, excellent catering by Patina, and a central CBD location makes it an ideal choice for impressing clients or hosting significant gatherings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Heritage and UQ's Role
The architecture itself is a major draw, featuring a magnificent copper dome and elegant interiors that evoke a sense of Brisbane's past. Visitors can admire the intricate details and imagine the bustling port activities that once took place here. The riverside location offers picturesque views, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a taste of Brisbane's charm and history.
UQ's stewardship ensures that Customs House remains a dynamic space, contributing to the city's cultural landscape. Whether attending a lecture, a wedding, or simply enjoying a meal at Patina, guests are immersed in a unique blend of heritage, education, and hospitality. The venue's ability to host diverse events, from statistical snapshots of communities to anniversary dinners, highlights its versatility and enduring appeal.
Dining at Patina: A Culinary Experience
Beyond the à la carte menu, Patina is particularly famous for its delightful high tea. Served in the afternoon, it's a popular choice for those looking for a special treat, offering a selection of sweet and savory bites accompanied by fine teas. The riverside setting enhances the experience, providing a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.
Service at Patina is consistently praised, with staff like Joe and Marcel often highlighted for their professionalism, patience, and attentiveness, even going the extra mile for special occasions like anniversaries. This commitment to excellent service, combined with the quality of the food and the stunning views, makes dining at Patina a memorable occasion.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit