Brisbane’s most iconic outlook has found its culinary match with the official unveiling of The Summit Restaurant – a bold new venture by Mantle Group that transforms the heritage-listed Mt Coot-tha site into a multi-million-dollar dining destination.
Perched high above the city skyline, wrapped in native bushland and sweeping views out to Moreton Bay, The Summit is a celebration of Queensland’s beauty and bounty – a place where fine food, spectacular scenery and a sense of place come together in perfect harmony.
From polished timber interiors to an open-air verandah framing the horizon, the venue’s reinvention is as much about its architectural elegance as it is about its soul. Led by acclaimed Brisbane design firm Hogg & Lamb, the fit-out seamlessly blends heritage charm with contemporary flair, creating a warm and welcoming space that feels both grounded and elevated.
Inside, diners can choose from three unique experiences: a refined dining room within the original heritage building, a lively brewpub-style bar, and a sprawling deck perfect for soaking up the panoramic surrounds. Each offers a distinct perspective on the same unforgettable location.
At the heart of it all is Kym Machin, a hatted chef and respected Queensland hospitality figure, whose bold, produce-driven cuisine sets the tone for an ambitious new menu. Known for his work at Brisbane institution Urbane, Machin brings a clear vision to The Summit.
“With this menu, we wanted to tell a story of place, showcasing the best of Queensland while exploring our diverse climates, regions and native ingredients,” he said. “It’s not just about great food; it’s about creating a genuine connection to this land and the people who shape it.”
That vision takes shape across a menu inspired by Queensland’s landscapes – with themed sections titled ‘Sea’, ‘Air’, ‘Land’, ‘Earth’ and ‘Garden’. Diners can explore standout dishes like Goldband Snapper with wild garlic and native ginger, roast duck smoked over paperbark, or pumpkin agnolotti with candied shoots. For those keen to dive deeper, there are two chef-curated tasting menus ($79 and $99) offering a guided journey through Machin’s culinary storytelling.
Sustainability, seasonality and local provenance are central to the kitchen’s ethos. Ingredients are sourced from across the state – from Elliott Heads spanner crab and Daintree barramundi, to Longreach organic lamb – with additional produce grown onsite in the restaurant’s own edible gardens and beehives.
For something more relaxed, the Bar Share menu pairs panoramic views with elevated snacks like Rocky Point cobia with buttermilk dressing, goats cheese puffs, and beef and beetroot tartare – all designed for grazing and good company.
The opening marks a major milestone for Mantle Group, with founder Godfrey Mantle describing it as “one of the most unique dining sites in the country; beautiful by day and absolutely spectacular at night.” But more importantly, he emphasises, “it’s a place for the people of Brisbane… the locals who walk up the mountain every day, who bring their families here on weekends.”
That sense of community is reflected in the team leading the relaunch. Alongside Machin in the kitchen is Ammar Kassrawi, managing the floor – both veterans of the Queensland hospitality scene. “They share our belief that it’s never just about what’s on the plate,” Mantle said. “It’s about how guests are welcomed, how the room feels, the view, the detail, the generosity. That’s what creates unforgettable experiences.”
Looking ahead, The Summit is just the first phase in Mantle Group’s larger vision for Mt Coot-tha. Plans include a two-level Pavilion venue, a boutique gin distillery, and a cultural tourism experience that honours the mountain’s rich history – all set to be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Our ambition is to make The Summit one of the most iconic destinations in Queensland,” Mantle said. “The Summit Restaurant is just the beginning and we’re incredibly excited about what’s to come.”
The Summit Restaurant
The Summit Restaurant is now open seven days from 11am. For more information and bookings, visit summitbrisbane.com.au
