A powerhouse performer in its own right, Bar Alto hits all the right notes, writes KT Woods.
Bar Alto at the Brisbane Powerhouse is an entertainment destination in its own right, offering one of Brisbane’s best dining establishments that maximises the magic of the Brisbane River in springtime.
Beginning as a popular bar within the cultural precinct, the arrival of Bar Alto extends the original lively and relaxed vibe, with New Farm locals, inter-suburban visitors and culture lovers all enjoying the light and airy space.
It would be hard to create a better industrial décor than the old reclaimed energy station on the edge of New Farm Park, with its high ceilings, vast windows and thick, distressed walls.
Arriving for a civilised Saturday lunch, we are led through the main dining area, past the bustling open kitchen that faces the river, into a lovely smaller room with five tables, giving a pleasing degree of intimacy in such a large building.
We are given a choice position near the window, whose wide ledge leads our gaze to the water.
Al fresco diners enjoy the large outdoor dining ramp, which extends out towards the river, above Watt restaurant, but the breeze is a little unsettling today. I am sure this is a hot spot to cool off, and people-watch, when summer hits.
Service here is very professional, with sleek efficiency and friendly smiles. We began with fresh ciabatta and olive oil, a fresh and fitting appetite warmer, as we check out Bar Alto’s Italian inspired menu, and sip glasses of Tin Cows pinot noir from the Yarra Valley.
I decide on the homemade pappardelle with goat ragu, and am deeply satisfied with the soft rags of delicate pasta layered with rich tomato sauce and the slow cooked meat, which created deliciously rustic and pleasurable flavours. The meat is unctuous, but not too rich, and quite abundant throughout the pappardelle.
My dining companion is very happy with the fresh gnocchi with smoked salmon and a creamy goat’s cheese sauce – presented as a pretty pastel plate of pale potato pasta dumplings, pink salmon, cream sauce and a vivid drizzle of green basil oil.
Fabulous pasta and good wine soothe the soul, and coupled with the spring afternoon’s fresh breezes and magical light streaming through the palatial glass windows, all is well in my world.
There is nothing else I need, until there is a sighting of affagatto, and I must have one too. The coffee is just right, and creates a strong and bitter contrast to the rich creaminess of the vanilla ice-cream.
Bar Alto is a versatile restaurant, great for a quick lunch or supper, or a more celebratory occasion to linger over courses, and is consistent in its attention to detail and creation of seriously good food with a casual and easy style.
Bar Alto
When: Tuesdays to Sundays 11am until late.
Where: Level 1, Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington St, New Farm.
Bookings: Available to large groups only on (07) 3358 1063.
A powerhouse performer in its own right, Bar Alto hits all the right notes, writes KT Woods.
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