Alchemy is a sophisticated restaurant by the river in Brisbane’s CBD that has survived the often ruthless cut and thrust of the food industry for 14 years. It succeeds because of the creativity of head chef Brad Jolly, who regards the menu as a perpetual work in progress.

New ingredients arrive regularly to force out the old. It might be kingfish from Spencer Gulf in South Australia, rib eye from Queensland’s Maranoa or lamb from Victoria.

The restaurant is in Expense Account Alley in the Eagle St business quarter, and it is not uncommon to see young professionals there sharing a bottle of vintage champagne. The menu has again been updated.

Diners are raving about the white wine braised rabbit risotto with spinach, green olives and marjoram. For dessert, try a truffle honey panna cotta with yellow raisins, Amaretto crumble and chocolate “glass”.

Must-eat dish: Rabbit risotto