West End’s Hidden Gems on Your Bankside Doorstep

One of the best parts about living at Bankside? You don’t need a car — just curiosity and a good pair of shoes. West End is full of little surprises hiding in plain sight, and some of the most charming spots are the ones you’d only find by wandering past at just the right moment. From tucked-away breweries and leafy gardens to second-hand bookshops and secret retreats, this is your guide to the hidden gems just a stroll away. No planning required — just step outside and start exploring.

Brisbane Brewing Co. West End

Hidden behind ornate iron gates on Boundary Street, Brisbane Brewing Co. is one of West End’s best-kept secrets. This cosy, courtyard-style microbrewery is home to fresh house-made beers, hearty food, and a laid-back vibe that feels more like your mate’s backyard than a commercial venue. Whether you’re grabbing a post-work drink or catching up with friends, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to keep coming back to — even if you have to point it out every time.

Jane Street Community Garden

Tucked behind Davies Park, this leafy little oasis is a pocket of community magic. It’s not just about herbs and vegetables — it’s a place where neighbours connect, weekend workshops pop up, and shared cups of tea become impromptu moments of joy. You might catch someone tending to their plot, strumming a guitar, or simply soaking up the green vibes. Low-key and wholesome, it’s a beautiful reminder of West End’s community roots.

Queensland Ballet’s Rooftop & Dining

Just a short walk from Bankside, the transformed Thomas Dixon Centre isn’t only a haven for dancers — it’s a cultural hotspot. The rooftop terrace hosts twilight performances and intimate events, pairing sweeping views with a special kind of atmosphere. Inside, newly opened Layla, an exquisite Middle Eastern inspired restaurant nestled within heritage-listed brick walls, and Tom's Kitchen, the hottest new brunch spot in town, are steadily winning hearts, whether you’re after a laid-back brunch or a quiet glass of wine post-show. A cultural gem that still feels like a delightful secret.

Bent Books

This unassuming second-hand bookstore on Boundary Street is a treasure trove of stories. Floor-to-ceiling shelves overflow with well-loved novels, quirky cookbooks, art collections, and oddities from decades past. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time — one minute you’re browsing for a mystery, the next you’ve discovered a new favourite poet. With handwritten recommendations and a homey atmosphere, Bent Books is a timeless escape from the fast pace of city life.

Soak Bathhouse

📍 Level 1, 29 Duncan Street, West End (above West Village)

Tucked away above West Village, Soak Bathhouse feels like one of West End’s best-kept secrets. You wouldn’t know it from the street, but head upstairs and you’ll find a rooftop sanctuary with open-air mineral spas, a cedar sauna, an essential oil steam room, and a cold plunge pool, all surrounded by tropical greenery. The views over West End and the city skyline are the perfect bonus — especially at sunset, when the glow adds to the secluded, almost mystical feel of the space.

Find More Than a Home at Bankside

Living at Bankside means more than just being in a prime location. It means having a neighbourhood that unfolds new discoveries at every turn. So next time you step out, skip the usual haunts — the real West End is waiting just off the beaten path.

Talk to our Bankside Sales Team at 07 3180 6716 or submit an enquiry here.