Customs House entrance
1 / 10

Customs House (UQ) Brisbane

4.6
·1k reviews·Brisbane City, Australia

Iconic heritage building on Brisbane River, offering fine dining, high tea, and stunning Story Bridge views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Less crowded, perfect for high tea

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Customs House entrance

Customs House (UQ) Brisbane

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Less crowded, perfect for high tea

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic heritage building on Brisbane River, offering fine dining, high tea, and stunning Story Bridge views.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A grand blend of heritage, hospitality, and community impact with unbeatable riverside charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Riverside Table

Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. 💺

✨ UQ Alumni Discount

If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Riverside Dining Terrace

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.

TikTok
Heritage Architecture

Heritage Architecture

The Long Room

Marvel at the magnificent colonial architecture, including the heritage-listed copper dome. An elegant backdrop for events and dining.

Reddit
High Tea Experience

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.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Prime Views

Securing a table with river views, especially for high tea or dinner, is highly recommended. Popular times and window seats fill up fast, so booking in advance ensures you get the best experience at this iconic Brisbane spot. Reddit

Dress Code & Occasion

While generally relaxed, Customs House offers an elegant setting. Smart casual attire is suitable for most visits, but consider dressing up slightly for special occasions like anniversaries or formal events to match the grand colonial architecture. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less crowded, perfect for high tea
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Romantic ambiance, city lights
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend brunch
Why
Lively atmosphere, river views
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This casual yet breathtaking spot on the edge of the river under the shade of a big beautiful Jacaranda tree, is calling you to Brisbane 👋 Sit in the sunshine and take in that laid-back vibes from morning til fairy-lit night at Officer's Mess in New Farm ☀️ #VisitBrisbane #Brisbane #TravelTikTok #TravelTok #Traveller #Travellife #Travelling @Queensland, Australia [ID: A video montage of a riversi...
@visitbrisbane
3.3K likes • 155.1K views

🎯 Book Riverside Table

Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. Reddit 💺 TikTok

✨ UQ Alumni Discount

If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. Reddit :moneybag:

"If I had to choose between breathing and loving you, I would use my last breath to tell you I love you." - DeAnna Anderson⁠ ⁠ ⁠ @customshousebne
studioimpressions
407 likes • 0 views
Writing the next chapter of our love story, one step at a time, together.⁠ ⁠ Celebrating at @customshousebne⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠
studioimpressions
399 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for stunning photos of the river and Story Bridge. TikTok :camerawithflash:

🥂 Special Occasion Treat

Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations; they offer surprise desserts. Reddit 🍾

Your love has transformed my world into a paradise of happiness.⁠ Celebrating every moment of the day @customshousebne⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠
studioimpressions
260 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Riverside Table

Request a table with a view when booking for the best experience. Reddit 💺 TikTok

✨ UQ Alumni Discount

If you're a UQ alumni, inquire about potential discounts on your bill. Reddit :moneybag:

📸 Capture the Views

Don't forget your camera for stunning photos of the river and Story Bridge. TikTok :camerawithflash:

🥂 Special Occasion Treat

Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations; they offer surprise desserts. Reddit 🍾

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

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

Stunning heritage architecture
Riverside views
Excellent food and service

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Customs House is situated right in the heart of the Brisbane CBD, making it easily accessible for city workers and tourists alike. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk from most parts of the Brisbane CBD to Customs House, especially if you enjoy strolling along the riverfront. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, Customs House is noted for having a very good wine selection, complementing their Modern Australian menu. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Yes, Customs House offers fantastic, unobstructed views of the Story Bridge, making it a prime location for capturing this iconic Brisbane landmark. TikTokReddit

You may also like

1 of 2
Customs House (UQ) Brisbane (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide