Customs House is a heritage-listed riverside building at 399 Queen St in Brisbane’s city centre. Its copper dome, Corinthian columns and grand interiors make it a rewarding stop for architecture and local history, while the Long Room hosts cultural events and Sunday tours. Patina, the in-house restaurant, serves contemporary Australian food with local seafood and seasonal produce, with indoor dining and a terrace overlooking the Brisbane River and Story Bridge. Come for a meal, high tea or a closer look at the building; check ahead if you plan to dine or attend an event.
A customs house by the river
Brisbane’s Customs House was built on Queen Street to handle customs and excise duties on goods entering the port. It replaced a smaller building at Petrie Bight. Construction of the larger Victorian Free Classical-style building took three years, and the present building opened in 1889.
Customs operations later moved closer to the river mouth, and the building took on a new role. The University of Queensland leased it in 1991 and began a three-year restoration in 1994. It now serves as a university venue for functions and activities, as well as a place for public events and dining.
The dome, columns and Long Room
The copper dome and Corinthian columns give Customs House its distinctive exterior. Inside, look for the grand staircases and period details preserved through the restoration. The building’s public rooms include the Long Room, a notable setting for cultural and community events beneath the dome.
Customs House is open to the public, though it also operates as a function venue. Sunday guided tours are free, and the Long Room sometimes hosts free musical performances. Check ahead if either is central to your plans, since event schedules and tour arrangements are not specified here.
Patina and the riverside terrace
Patina occupies the heritage building, with indoor dining and an outdoor terrace looking across the Brisbane River towards the Story Bridge. Its contemporary Australian menu draws on seasonal produce and local seafood, with dishes intended for sharing. The menu can include freshly shucked oysters with Asian pear mignonette, wagyu beef tartare with smoked bone marrow, and a slow-cooked lamb shoulder with labneh, za’atar and mint chimichurri.
High tea is another reason to book. The described menu includes ribbon sandwiches, savoury canapés, raspberry scones with jam and cream, small desserts and macarons, served with a selection of teas. Session times and inclusions can change, so confirm the current details when making a reservation.
Planning a visit
Customs House is at 399 Queen St in Brisbane’s city centre. You can make a short architectural visit, join a Sunday tour, attend an event or reserve a table at Patina. For lunch, dinner or high tea, booking ahead is a sensible way to secure your preferred time. If you are attending a particular event, check whether advance reservations are required.
The restaurant is also used for weddings and private functions, with the Long Room and riverside spaces among its event settings. UQ alumni may be eligible for a dining discount; ask when booking or paying. The building has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Customs House in Brisbane?
It is at 399 Queen St in Brisbane City, beside the Brisbane River.
Are Customs House tours free?
Free guided tours are held on Sundays. Check ahead for current tour details.
Can you eat at Customs House?
Yes. Patina, the in-house restaurant, serves contemporary Australian dishes and high tea, with indoor dining and a terrace overlooking the river and Story Bridge.
Should I book Patina in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended for lunch, dinner and high tea, especially if you want a particular time.
