I’ve always enjoyed Siana City for the sweeping views of the Brisbane River from the alfresco area and they shake some mean cocktails from a list that is well worth sampling on a balmy summer evening. Filled will suits talking shop most weeknights, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but if you can get past that then Siana City is well worth a visit.
Siana’s tag line is “Uniquely Asian” and I have to say that sums it up pretty well. My party of three took a seat in the vibrant, mood lit dining area not quite knowing what to expect – there aren’t too many places you can find Japanese, Indian and Chinese cuisine on the same plate, let alone on the same menu.
The venue was abuzz with a couple of Christmas parties in full swing out on the alfresco area, so it was quite difficult for us in the dining room to hear each other talk; none the less we enjoyed the atmosphere and reverted to alternative means of communication over a couple of whiskey sours and one of my favourites, the ‘take me home’ cocktail ($17).
The dining area consists of a couple of large, long dark wood tables – so you have to be content with shared dining. The space between seats is more than enough however, so you don’t feel as if the person next to you is imposing on your dining experience.
In an effort to sample a few items on the menu, the three of us chose Siana’s platinum platter ($30pp) which included chicken togarashi, duck rice paper rolls, wonton prawns, vegetable samosas, steamed prawn dumpling, Peking duck wraps, Keema lamb naan, tuna and almond roll, California roll, BBQ pork bun and steamed Edamame beans.
At first glance, with only one of each item per person on the platter, I was dubious as to whether this appetizing spread would adequately cater for our unified hunger. As we picked through the items however, it was soon evident that we’d be satisfied.
All of the morsels were delicious, fresh and full of flavour. The stand outs for me were the duck rice paper rolls, wonton prawns and the Keema naan, although I have to say that every item on display was without fault and the combination of cuisines worked (strangely enough) really well.
The staff at Siana City were a little scarce due to the Christmas parties, however they were very friendly and most helpful with recommending suggestions for our meal. My interstate guests were most impressed with the food and experience which is a testament to Brisbane’s often criticised, but ever growing night life.
For a similar experience out of the CBD you may like to try Siana Valley.
- Siana City – Upper Plaza Level, Riparian Plaza, 71 Eagle St, Brisbane +61 7 3221 3887
