A Visual Feast
Overview
Tucked between the cliffs and the Story Bridge, slap-bang in Brisbane’s buzzing riverfront hub of Howard Smith Wharves, Crystalbrook Vincent offers a romantic escape ideal for art-lovers. Modern, fun, and surprising describe this five-star hotel (formerly known as The Fantauzzo) best, so be prepared for a special kind of Brisbane short break!
Named for one of Australia’s most acclaimed artists, Vincent Fantauzzo, this design-driven hotel has more than 500 original Fantauzzo artworks and giclée prints on display throughout the public areas, corridors, and rooms. A visual feast of famous and compelling faces (look out for Heath Ledger, Matt Moran, and Asher Keddie), the art gallery glow starts the moment you enter the airy lobby … to be stopped in your tracks by the image of an enormous giraffe!
Best room for two
Our spacious River room had magical views of the snaking river and gleaming city skyline. Kitted out in sumptuous jewel tones of green and purple, it offered everything needed for a comfortable stay, including a plush king bed, Smart TV (with complimentary recent-release movies), minibar, free WiFi, and a Nespresso coffee machine. In keeping with Crystalbrook’s commitment to ‘responsible luxury’ the matte-black, glass-encased ensuite with rainforest shower featured 100% waste-free amenities with everything reusable, recyclable or biodegradable.
If you want to spoil yourselves, plump for the deluxe River Master room with balcony and sit with a glass (or two) of Champagne, soaking in the spectacular views of the city, river and bridge.
Drinking & Dining
Our evening kicked off with cocktails at the hotel’s chic rooftop bar, Fiume (meaning river in Italian), which shares prime real estate with a stunning infinity pool. A perfect perch to watch the city morph from day into glittering night before heading into Polpetta, the in-house Italian restaurant.
After a flavour-packed feast — bread and olives followed by artisan salumi and grilled vegetables then rosemary-scented lamb shoulder — and a few glasses of vino, our heads were getting heavy. However, the night was still young, so we strolled across the wharves to overwater bar Mr Percival’s for a nightcap on the deck.
What a way to round out a Brisbane staycation: with the river tide flowing beneath us and the iconic bridge soaring above.
Dining note: If you’re not in the mood for Italian (however unlikely that is), Howard Smith Wharves offers some of Brisbane’s best restaurants, breweries and bars in a landmark location. Think Greek taverna vibes at Greco, Japanese izakaya-style at Yoko Dining, and Cantonese flavours at Stanley Restaurant plus laid-back pizzas and beers at the riverfront Felons Brewing Co.
Couples will love
Vincent’s engaging, gallery mood and stellar views are sure to impress. Couples will also love the La Dolce Vita bottomless brunch at Fiume. Indulge with an Italian-inspired feast of food and drink every Sunday from 10 am -12 pm and 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm.
Exploring
There’s plenty to see and do close to the hotel, including within the heritage-listed wharf precinct which is brimming with local history. If you’re keen to hit the shops, Brisbane’s CBD is just a short stroll away or you can lose a morning (or day) in the high-end boutiques and restaurants of nearby James Street, Fortitude Valley.
Want to soak up the tropical weather? Take an electric scooter or bike along the boardwalk to New Farm or Eagle Street Pier and the beautiful City Botanic Gardens. Or try our new favourite way to see the city: on the water with an eco-friendly electric boat! You don’t need a licence, and GoBoat hire is available from Kangaroo Point and Breakfast Creek. Perfect for a leisurely picnic lunch (order in advance or BYO) or afternoon adventure.
Crystalbrook Vincent
5 Boundary Street, Brisbane
