NIIWA

The perfect dining experience isn’t just about what’s on your plate. Having a vibe that matches the location is just as important, which is exactly what inspired the Hideki team to transform their James Street venue into a brand-new concept that fits seamlessly with the elevated atmosphere of Brisbane’s iconic luxury precinct. 

NIIWA—which takes its name from the Japanese word for “garden”—is a lush new destination for vibrant cocktails, connection and open-air dining. It’s a leafy escape in the heart of the urban jungle, designed to specifically match the rhythm and energy of James Street, from long lunches to late nights. 

Like its moodier sibling Hideki, NIIWA serves modern Japanese cuisine with flavours that are balanced and intentional. Signature dishes include the shio miso edamame dip, a reimagined okonomiyaki finished with pickled onion, mushroom and nori, or a delicate tuna dip with nashi pear. The menu is a considered nod to the seasonality and ingredient-led approach featured in Japanese dining, with beautiful plating to boot. Make sure you leave room for dessert because the NIIWA Garden is an absolute stunner, featuring kinoako, strawberry, sake chocolate and ice cream. 

NIIWA is just as much a cocktail bar as it is a place for a sophisticated feed, with an offering that reflects the garden setting in inventive flavour pairings, delicate aromatics, and fresh ingredients. Plus, if you’re a person who believes Instagram drinks first, the floral touches and bright colours makes the picture basically take itself. 

Come for golden hour drinks and stay curated DJ programing on Friday and Saturday nights. Or swing by on a Sunday for a jazzier take on NIIWA’s refined experience.

NIIWA is expected to open late February.