Layla

As Brisbane continues to get bigger and better, everyone wants to get in on the action. The latest interstate import? Acclaimed Melbourne chef, restaurateur and television personality Shane Delia (Maha, Maha North, Maha East, Jayda) who has opened his first Queensland restaurant, Layla.

In a flavourful collision of Middle Eastern influences and local Queensland produce, Layla is based in the Thomas Dixon Centre, the home of Queensland Ballet. The restaurant will serve as an extension of the Centre’s artistic excellence, with an immersive menu drawing inspiration from global sources. 

While the restaurant interior is delightfully moody and dimly lit featuring blue velvet finishes, walnut timber, brass accents, and exposed brick walls to reflect the history of the building, Layla also offers al fresco dining in the adjoining courtyard—surrounded by natural beige umbrellas, stone-topped tables and lush greenery.

In collaboration with Delia, Layla’s Head Chef Simon Palmer (Black Hide by Gambaro, Urbane, Gerard’s Bistro, E’cco Bistro) will hero inventive spices and produce-forward dishes. “It has been amazing working alongside Shane, learning from him and his unique approach to spice, and coming up with what we believe is a new offering to Brisbane’s dining scene,” says Palmer. 

On the menu, small bites pack a punch in king crab dressed in coriander and lime, charred pineapple and smoked pepper, and a potato, cabbage, and leek briwat wrapped in Tunisian pastry. Layla’s signature flatbread brushed in toum and fennel seed za’atar is complemented by a whipped smoked hummus, while generous mains include Delia’s iconic eight-hour slow roasted lamb shoulder with smoked eggplant. The Middle Eastern influence also extends to the handful of indulgent desserts, from the watermelon and rosewater granita with chocolate mousse to the peanut butter parfait with tahini caramel. 

As for drinks, sip your way through a seasonal cocktail list, curated to highlight native Queensland ingredients. Layla’s sommelier Darcy Curnow (Rockpool Bar & Grill, Delia Group) is also behind the considered 150-bottle wine list, featuring local and international varietals from small batch makers, sustainable growers, and traditional winemakers. 

The 90-seater venue serves as the perfect host for a variety of occasions, from enticing pre-theatre dinners to private events in the dedicated dining room. Whether you opt for the a la carte offering or one of the two banquet menus, you can expect an aromatic feast for the senses at Layla. 

Book here.

Image credit: Layla | Jason Loucas

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