Paddington is renowned for its heritage aesthetic that oozes traditional Queensland charm. While the suburb is hilly and you’re sure to get a cardio workout, we promise it’s worth it for the impressive variety of Paddington experiences you’ll enjoy. This chic neighbourhood has it all – a thriving cafe culture, antique and boutique shopping, and heritage architecture that will make your jaw drop. Check out our recommendations on how to experience Paddington like the locals.
Eating
Start your day the Paddington way with a long and leisurely brunch. For stunning views alongside a delectable breakfast menu, head to Chapter IV Espresso. Brunch like you mean it with an all-day breakfast at Sassafras, a long-running cafe adored by locals and situated in a converted weatherboard cottage. The perfect culmination of breakfast and lunch can be found at Anouk which delivers a fail-safe all day menu.
By night, if there’s any of the favourite Paddington experiences worth leaning into, it’s eating. Darling & Co is a sophisticated local hotspot that blends contemporary Australian cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere that’s best enjoyed when dining in their outdoor seating area. Satisfy your Italian food cravings with authentic cuisine and genuinely warm service at Grappino Trattoria. For modern Chinese dining that’s food is in total contrast to its subtle and minimalistic space, head to Emily Yeoh Kitchen.
Shopping
Op shoppers will love browsing the for second-hand treasures, antique pieces and vintage fashion. Arguably one of, if not the, most famous Paddington attractions is Paddington Antique Centre which is housed in a heritage-listed 1920s theatre. With more than 50 dealers selling everything from clothing and shoes, to furniture and cameras, you could easily spend hours browsing this antiques hub. Head to Retro Metro for top-quality vintage fashion pieces or Ra Ra Superstar where retro style is modernised.
As well as its outstanding antique and vintage shopping scene, Paddington also caters to those looking for something a little more upmarket. Be prepared to shop ‘til you drop at the luxury boutiques selling independent and Aussie designer fashion, jewellery and accessories.
Culture
Paddington is home to impressive numbers of heritage properties, from restored weatherboard houses and workmen’s cottages serving as homes, to historic buildings transformed into retail stores and cafes. For an authentic Paddington experience, head out on a picturesque walk filled with historical atmosphere as you spot countless historical and heritage-listed buildings. Be sure to plan your route so that you go past Government House (originally designed in 1865 with an impressive Italianate facade and extensions), Paddington Antique Centre (built in 1929 as an atmospheric picture theatre), the old timber Paddington Post Office and the old Paddington Fire Station.
For art lovers, head to Lethbridge Gallery which showcases works by some of the most exciting and cutting-edge contemporary artists in the country. Whether you’re just a browsing admirer or a serious collector, you’ll be impressed by the rotating series of exhibitions on display.
Paddington Nightlife
Experience the highest quality in comedy performances in Brisbane at Paddington’s own Sit Down Comedy Club. They have performances every night with an impressive array of local, national and international talent.
For live music and vibrant atmosphere, head to Lefty’s Old Time Musical Hall. The name says it all – it’s like stepping back in time to an American saloon, complete with old-timey decor, leather booths, chandeliers, giant mirrors and fabric-draped ceilings. Sip on a whisky cocktail as you enjoy the sweet tangs of jazz, blues and roots or rockabilly.
Experience Paddington with Airtrain
Make Airtrain part of your journey to get you to your Paddington experiences. With journeys from Brisbane Airport departing every 15 minutes during peak times and every 30 minutes off peak, you’ll be at your destination before you know it. Once on board, you will have a quick and comfortable journey from Brisbane Airport to Brisbane City in just 20 minutes.
Get around with a go card – the fast, easy and convenient way to travel. The go card can be used on all Translink transport, including Airtrain, throughout Greater Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.
The Smart Ticketing system offers more ways to pay, for a more convenient journey. Smart Ticketing allows you to pay with your Visa, Mastercard and American Express debit and credit cards at any South East Queensland train station, including Brisbane Airport.
