Menu of Southside Bistro in Sunnybank, Queensland, Australia

Menu Overview

Southside Bistro, nestled in Sunnypark Shopping Centre at Sunnybank, is a shining example of fusion cuisine done right. Their menu artfully blends Asian and European flavors, creating dishes that feel both familiar and refreshingly inventive. This spot is ideal for those who appreciate thoughtful, well-composed meals where each element harmonizes without overpowering the other.

The rice bowls stand out as a culinary highlight, featuring complex layers and bold yet balanced tastes. The Koji Rubbed Flank Steak bowl is a prime example — tender, umami-rich beef paired with miso butter, five-spice shiitake mushrooms, and the subtle kick of gochugaru confit tomatoes. The inclusion of pickled onions and sweet potatoes adds a texture and acidity contrast that elevates the dish. Similarly, the Chicken Larb bowl is a vibrant composition featuring nahn jim dressing and a refreshing burst from pickled chili and watermelon, introducing unexpected freshness that lightens the bowl. While these bowls hover around the $26 price range, the quality and ingredient interplay justify the cost.

For brunch lovers, the Daytime Platter for Two is a generous and balanced feast. It covers a wide spectrum of brunch staples – from crispy bacon and chorizo to creamy haloumi and perfectly fried eggs – alongside carbs like mini croissants and sourdough, finishing with yoghurt and fruit bowls. This spread suits those wanting a shareable, hearty meal with a fusion twist.

Sides deserve special mention. Taiwanese Fried Chicken Bites deliver a crisp, aromatic punch enhanced by fried basil, while the Fried Duck Bechamel Croquettes are an indulgent, savory treat with a fresh chimichurri that cuts through the richness. The Fried Potato Layered Bake with tobiko and a salted chili kewpie mayo stands out as a creative twist on a familiar comfort food. These sides perfectly complement the main offerings, rounding out the meal with contrasting textures and flavors.

The menu’s diversity extends into lighter options like the Tamagoyaki Style Omelette, which layers the delicate flavors of shiitake and dashi with wilted spinach and edamame, paired with scorched rice—an elegant nod to Japanese comfort food. The gochugaru and garlic confit tomatoes dish, featuring bocconcini and poached egg dressed in salted lemon and paprika, balances richness with brightness, showcasing the kitchen’s knack for thoughtful seasoning and presentation.

Patrons frequently praise the thoughtful service and ambiance. Jasmine’s warm hospitality and knowledgeable recommendations enhance the dining experience, making visitors feel genuinely welcome. The coffee is consistently well-regarded, rounding off meals on a strong note. However, it’s worth noting that wait times can be longer than expected, even during quieter service periods, suggesting that kitchen staff are focused on quality and careful preparation rather than speed.

Dessert offerings like the Sizzling Brownie with matcha and white chocolate provide a decadent finish, ideal for sharing. Its rich, warming nature fits perfectly with a cooler evening visit and has left many guests craving a second helping.

In sum, Southside Bistro’s menu is a compelling journey through fusion cuisine that respects ingredient integrity and expression. The dishes reveal a kitchen that embraces complexity without excess. For those seeking imaginative meals that marry Asian influences with European technique, this bistro is an outstanding destination. While prices trend higher and pacing can be leisurely, the thoughtfully executed dishes and inviting atmosphere consistently leave diners eager to return and explore more of the menu’s nuanced flavors.