By Natalie Bochenski
THE SETTING
The Pullman Hotel is on the corner of Ann & Roma Streets (near King George Square), Brisbane. You can’t get more central to the action than this modern oasis in the heart of the CBD.
The Pullman Hotel is revitalised under its new name.
THE SPACE
The Pullman has pulled its socks up from its days as the Sebel Citygate, and before that the Carlton Crest. A stunning lobby with a grand, curved white reception desk presents a warm welcome. The property features a gym and a beautiful 16th floor pool, with some of the best views in Brisbane. There is also a Connectivity Lounge for the business traveller.
The Pullman Hotel is revitalised under its new name.
THE KIT
Rooms are spacious with modern, clean lines. The design is minimal without being cold, with key splash colours like red, orange and green adding interest to the basic black, white, grey and cream basics.
COMFORT FACTOR
Bathrooms are well appointed, and bathtubs have the simple but ingenious inclusion of a head rest. It really allows you to relax and enjoy your bubbles without getting an uncomfortable crick in the neck. The beds are firm but luxurious, sending you off to the land of nod with no bumps along the way.
FOOD
Bistro Allure, the Pullman’s in house restaurant, is a testament to executive head chef Ben Limpus’ commitment to sourcing quality local produce and adventurous wines.
Regular collaborations with other well-known chefs result a menu that changes enough to satiate the frequent non-residential diner, while giving the holiday makers a taste of favourites and specialties.
The care and attention to food preparation and presentation is exemplary, with lamb shanks sliding off the bone and gourmet pizzas infused with goodness from Allure’s traditional wood-fired oven.
For the lighter touch, grab a seat in the casually elegant surrounds of the KG bar, which offers a delectable tapas menu to go with your cocktails or extensive wine list. It’s a great place to unwind with friends and travelling companions after a day’s activities.
If you need a coffee and a pick me up in the morning, the Expresso Bar is your friend, with a range of pastries and sweet treats to go with your single origin Arabica beans.
WORTH STEPPING OUT FOR
The renovated City Hall is just across the road, and with it the delightful – and free – Museum of Brisbane. With at least three exhibitions about the city on at any given time, it’s a fantastic starting point for any history and culture buffs.
Retail temptations are just a minute’s walk away in the Queen Street Mall – close enough to justify a return trip to drop off your purchases if you don’t want to lug them around all day.
To the north of the hotel lies the beautiful Roma Street Parklands, while a few blocks south will have you at the City Botanic Gardens and Old Government House.
Across the river (via the nearby Victoria or Kurilpa bridge) lies South Bank and the cultural precinct. Take kids to the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, or to the Gallery of Modern Art’s excellent children’s area. If you’re looking for a date night, check out plays, musicals and concerts on at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre.
THE VERDICT
The weekend is anything you choose to make it.
HOW TO GET THERE
Valet parking is available; otherwise it’s an easy bus or train ride.
ESSENTIALS
Deluxe king rooms start around $270 per night, with executive king rooms (including that all-important free WiFi) around $310 per night, and one bedroom spa suites around $430 per night, with regular special offers to take advantage of cultural and sporting events in Brisbane. Phone 3229 9111, see pullmanbrisbanekgs.com.au
- The writer was a guest of Capriole Estate.
- View other great Queensland escapes.