W Brisbane’s signature restaurant, The Lex, is renowned for its unique fusion of fresh, local ingredients and the vibrant spirit of New York City. This ethos continues to shine through in their latest seasonal menu, a celebration of innovative cooking techniques and captivating flavours designed to tantalize taste buds this Autumn.
The menu promises a delightful culinary expedition, reinterpreting classic favourites with a touch of modern flair. Each dish is carefully crafted to tell its own story, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to experimentation and quality.
A playful take on the iconic Oyster Rockefeller, the Scallops Rockefeller entree features succulent grilled scallops. The smoky aroma perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the seafood, while a rich spinach and herb topping adds another layer of complexity.
For a truly theatrical experience, the Dry-Aged Warwick MB3+ Tomahawk Steak is a must-try. Presented tableside with a flourish, this impressive cut boasts an exceptional depth of flavour thanks to The Lex’s in-house dry-ageing process (lasting 21-45 days). The steak is accompanied by a refreshing herb and green leaf salad, along with a choice of sauce and side.
The Local Reef Fish of The Day exemplifies The Lex’s commitment to using the finest local produce. Here, delicate, fresh fish is perfectly paired with char-grilled gem hearts, adding a touch of smokiness reminiscent of New York’s bustling grill culture. A vibrant citrus herb butter sauce enhances the dish with a burst of freshness, beautifully complementing the natural flavours of the fish and ice plant.
The menu offers a delightful mix of unexpected yet delightful combinations. Tater Tots topped with Caviar provides a playful fusion of comfort food and luxury dining, while the Hiramasa Kingfish brined with Yuzu and Miso showcases a creative marriage of Japanese and New York influences. Served with Umami Mayonnaise, Pickled Jalapeno, and Bagel Crumbs, this dish promises an explosion of unique flavours.
For a sweet ending, The Lex reimagines the classic New York cheesecake with their Baked Vanilla Cheesecake with Cornflake Crunch and House-Made Blueberry Ice Cream. This playful twist evokes a sense of nostalgia with the delightful addition of the cornflake crunch, creating a truly memorable dessert.
No New York-inspired experience is complete without a touch of whiskey. The Lex’s beverage menu boasts an exciting selection of cocktails, each drawing inspiration from the diverse flavours of the city’s five boroughs. The Manhattan cocktail, for example, offers a bold and dry experience with its combination of Rittenhouse Straight Rye Whiskey, Antica Formula Vermouth, Carpano Dry Vermouth, Bitters, Red Miso, and Luxardo Maraschino Cherry. In contrast, the Queens cocktail provides a more aromatic and zesty experience with Knob Creek 9 Year Bourbon, Amaro Montenegro, Orange Marmalade, Lemon, and Mint.
The Lex caters to celebrations of all sizes, offering 2, 3, and 4-course set menus for intimate gatherings of 10-24 guests. Larger groups of 25-70 can enjoy semi-private dining spaces with set menus featuring Housemade Foccacia, Hiramasa Kingfish, Pork Belly, Local Reef Fish of The Day, White Pyrenees Lamb Rump, Whipped Potatoes, Herb & Green Leaf Salad, Peanut Butter Chocolate Bombe, and Baked Vanilla Cheesecake.
For truly extravagant events like weddings, The Lex offers a range of options, from formal multi-course sit-down meals to lively cocktail receptions. Live chef stations showcasing culinary artistry and roaming canapés elevate the experience, ensuring a truly unforgettable celebration.
Adding to the ambience, The Lex boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the Brisbane River, reminiscent of the iconic sky-high restaurants overlooking the Hudson River in New York City. What truly sets The Lex apart, however, is its unique terrace-style dining. This design creates an airy, open feel that seamlessly connects diners to the outdoors while still maintaining a dynamic and inviting interior space.
Open for dinner service Monday to Saturday nights, The Lex invites you to embark on a delicious culinary journey where Brisbane and New York City flavours come together in perfect harmony.