Hotel Snapshot
Sydney and Melbourne tend to get priority on Oz itineraries. However, travelers shouldn’t count Brisbane out. Queensland’s capital is one to watch. Ambitious chefs are propelling the culinary culture forward. The bars and breweries buzz. The riverfront setting means beautiful views and ferry boats as a form of public transportation. Plus, the laid-back pace makes it the perfect city break that won’t leave you feeling frazzled (and in need of an actual vacation after a few days). So where are all the trendy types staying and playing in Bluey’s hometown? The Calile Hotel, Australia’s first urban resort and the spot that’s responsible for redefining Brisbane’s hospitality scene.
Design & Character
Brisbane’s most fashionable address, The Callie Hotel is a much buzzed about haven of discreet luxury and convivial ambiance set along James Street. A bold, sun-drenched statement, the property drips with stone, arches, and tile. The colors are mellow; the mood is anything but. Whether you're keen on gastronomic indulgence, carefree revelry, or a reset (perhaps a bit of all three), it delivers in a fever dream of sunny days and starry city nights.
The Rooms
Designed as your personal oasis, accommodations channel an ease that’s rooted in soft hues (robin’s egg blue, sage green, rose quartz) and clean lines. Expect custom oak furnishings, marble, and brushed brass accents. Plush king-sized beds provide a comfy place to crash at the end of the night. The tiled bathrooms are stocked with Aussie-born, plant-powered Grown Alchemist amenities and Dyson hairdryer, plus linen bathrobes and slippers. If you’re staying for a few nights or simply have a bit more cash to splash, book one of the suites with a soaking tub and breezy terrace. Whichever room you choose, rest assured that all the setups reflect Brisbane’s lifestyle—a sun-warmed city without the bustle of other urban sprawls.
Food & Drink
The Calile Hotel isn’t just the coolest destination in the city to snooze and swim, it’s a place where getting something tasty to eat and drink is “too easy” (Aussie slang, for those who don’t already know). Hungry patrons can choose between five different restaurants—and that’s thanks to Simon Gloftis of St Albans Hospitality. Hellenika combines the flavors of an authentic Greek taverna with a swank poolside setting. SK Steak & Oyster is the spot for long, leisurely martini-fueled lunches. When that hankering for Thai street food hits, book it to sAme sAme to get your fix of khao soi and Wagyu massamam curry. Sushi Room brings Japanese fine-dining to Brizzy, with omakase and a la carte options. The pink-tinted Biànca serves house-made classic Italian dishes like mushroom risotto and rigatoni with pork shoulder ragu. From Greek dishes tattooed on hearts (literally) to lively piano-backed steak dinners, everything pulses with purpose and passion The contagious energy means you’re probably not quite ready to retire. Grab a nightcap at the lobby bar, where clever mixologist-made tipples and people watching are both on the menu.
Amenities
The pool deck, studded with spring green umbrellas and loungers, is a full-on vibe. (Yes, that word gets tossed around a lot—and means very little in most instances—but, if you’ve ever been to The Calile Hotel, you know it’s a vibe.) Of course, there’s more to do than relax in airy outdoor cabanas and sip cocktails. The library has cozy nooks to dive into a good book, flip through glossy magazines, or take a work call (on holiday?! gasp). Down the staircase, nestled under the white-brick archways, the ground-floor retail is a who’s who of stylish Aussie brands, from Mister Zimi to Bec + Bridge.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
The Calile Hotel boasts resort-level wellness amenities. The well-appointed gym is a good-looking spot to do your body good. It offers high-tech equipment and personal training sessions upon request, but it’s the sleek light wood environs that make you want to snap a sweaty selfie.
The medspa is a chic sanctuary. Think reclaimed timbers, stone, plants, and gauzy curtains. Beyond the aesthetics, it supplies Biologique Recherche and SkinCeuticals facials, PRP rejuvenation, skin needling, Halo and BBL laser treatments, ZeroBody dry floating, massages, scrubs, body wraps, and IV drips (necessary after one too many sunset cocktails).
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Located on James Street, The Callie Hotel is in the thick of the action. Admittedly, since some of the best restaurants in the city are right on-site, the motivation to leave might be low. But Brisbane has a lot going for it—and much of it sits within walking distance—including the excitement of vibrant inner-city Newstead and Fortitude Valley neighborhoods.
Fast Facts
Location: Brisbane, Australia
Vibe: Interior design dream meets Aussie party scene—but in linen sets and loafers.
Rating: Five-star
Room Count: 175 rooms and suites
Pricing: From $480 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The see-and-be-seen pool terrace buzzes with bronzed Queenslanders and jetsetters chatting over cocktails..
Dining: With five restaurants—Hellenika (Greek), sAme sAme (Thai street food), SK Steak & Oyster (steak and seafood), Sushi Room (Japanese), and Biànca (Italian)—there’s zero chance of going hungry. Obviously, you’ll want to do drinks at the lobby bar.
Amenities: 5 restaurants, bar, pool, cabanas, gym, spa, library, event venues, retail space
Nearby Attractions: Seek out greenery with a trip to Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens and the many riverside parks.
Airport: Brisbane Airport (BNE)
