The pavlova is a meringue cake with a crisp shell and marshmallow centre, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit. A summertime Brisbane Christmas table standard.
The pavlova is named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, who toured Australia and New Zealand in 1926 and 1929. Both countries claim invention; food historian Helen Leach traced earlier published recipes to New Zealand, but Australian versions evolved separately. By the 1950s the pavlova was Australia's most-served celebration dessert, particularly at Christmas. In Brisbane, the Pavlova takes a tropical-fruit turn with passionfruit, kiwi and Bowen mango toppings replacing the colder-climate berries of the south. Australian Macadamia nuts (a native Queensland tree) crown some modern interpretations.
2 editor picks for Pavlova in Brisbane, ranked by editorial score. All Brisbane signature dishes · Pavlova across every city.
e'cco bistro ★ 4.7
63 Skyring Terrace, Newstead QLD 4006
Philip Johnson e'cco bistro has run since 1995, now at Haven in Newstead since 2018. Modern Australian with Queensland seafood and wood-fired technique.
Flour & Chocolate Patisserie ★ 4.7
morningside · Shop 4, 621 Wynnum Road, Morningside QLD 4170
Flour & Chocolate on Wynnum Road in Morningside is the cult Brisbane pastry destination. Queues form early and twice-baked almond croissants sell out fast.