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Newly Renovated GPO Building Now Home to Tama Restaurant and The Gatsby Lounge Bar

After undergoing a $9-million renovation, the heritage-listed GPO building has finally reopened, revealing an extensive refurbishment and the addition of a new restaurant and upsale cocktail bar to the historic structure that has proudly stood in Fortitude Valley since its construction in 1887.

Once a bustling general post office, this architectural gem sadly closed its doors at the onset of the devastating pandemic in 2020.

However, thanks to Artesian Hospitality, the group responsible for renowned Gold Coast establishments Cali Beach Club and Surfers Pavilion, the GPO building has been given a new lease on life with the opening of Tama, an exquisite, 80- to 100-seat restaurant; and The Gatsby, a lavish cocktail bar.

GPO Reopens with New Venues, Tama Restaurant and The Gatsby Lounge Bar — Photo Credit: Facebook / Tama Dining

The Artesian Hospitality team wasted no time in enlisting the expertise of two of Brisbane’s most celebrated hospitality talents for the project: sommelier Alan Hunter, formerly of Otto Ristorante, and executive chef Richard Ousby, renowned for his culinary skills honed at Quay and Stokehouse.

Preserving the building’s unique character was of utmost importance during the renovation process, and to achieve this, Space Cubed Design Studio collaborated with heritage architects. The result is a seamlessly transformed interior with enhanced spatial flow.

Tama

The crown jewel is undoubtedly Tama, located on the ground floor. The place exudes sleek sophistication with its custom carpets, grand double-story windows, dazzling chandeliers, and exquisite marble and stone features.

At Tama, executive chef Richard Ousby, who previously helmed the renowned Stokehouse, takes centre stage, offering a contemporary, produce-driven menu that promises something different.

From delectable caviar tarts and crab pasta to indulgent seafood platters and premium steak, the culinary offerings at Tama have been carefully curated to cater to the most discerning palates.

The menu is heavily influenced by the presence of a charcoal-powered Josper oven imported from Spain, which allows for the creation of dishes that are simply unparalleled in taste and texture.

With its unique coal pit generating temperatures of up to 450 degrees Celsius, the oven produces mouthwatering delights such as calamari with miso and yuzu, whole deboned coral trout, succulent lamb loin, and cabbage topped with fiery chili salsa.

Steak enthusiasts will marvel at how the Josper oven plays a pivotal role in preparing the perfectly cooked cut-to-order Wagyu scotch fillet and the impressive two-kilogram Angus tomahawk.

Tama Menu

Tama’s menu extends beyond savoury dishes, featuring a selection of exquisite caviar options, including a delectable shortcrust pastry tart filled with crème fraîche and caviar.

For those seeking a touch of drama and elegance, the table-side caviar service offers blinis accompanied by shallots, crème fraîche, and chives.

Additionally, Tama presents an array of enticing small plates, such as beef tartare with parsnip and balsamic, as well as larger plates like the delectable mushroom tart with truffle custard.

To complete the culinary journey, a trio of delectable pastas awaits, including a rich pork bolognaise, four cheese tortellini, and indulgent crab bisque linguini.

An extensive wine list boasting over 400 bottles from both renowned and emerging producers around the globe provide the perfect pairings for the delectable menu. With most options ranging between $50 and $200, there is something to suit every discerning wine lover’s palate.

For those seeking a truly luxurious experience, exclusive bottles of Dom Perignon obtained through an ambassador deal and $6000 bottles of the prestigious 2008 Krug Clos du Mesnil are available for those willing to indulge.

The Gatsby

Ascending the original staircase, customers will discover The Gatsby, an opulent back bar adorned with marble finishes. Illuminated by crystalline light fixtures and a captivating back-lit sign, The Gatsby sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.

The venue is adorned by a line of plush red velvet stools that run along the front, while the rest of the room is adorned with sumptuous low-lying velvet booths, marble-topped tables boasting elegant brass accents, and a plethora of old-world trinkets.

The Gatsby provides an immersive bar experience inspired by the 1920s. Here, sommelier Alan Hunter has curated a captivating 74-page menu that showcases a delightful mix of innovative cocktails and timeless classics.

The menu boasts an array of options, including the Dewdropper, a delightful twist on the classic Paloma featuring blanco tequila, charred grapefruit, citrus, and agave.

Another standout creation is the Mazuma Spritz, a refreshing concoction comprising vodka, Veuve Clicquot champagne, passionfruit-washed bianco vermouth, and vanilla syrup. Enthusiasts of martinis and Manhattans will be pleased to know that these classic cocktails can be customised with their choice of base spirit.

The Gatsby drinks menu

As a truly unique feature, patrons have the option to purchase a full bottle of their favourite spirit and store it in the original 1887 vault located within the building, ensuring that guests can savour their chosen libations during subsequent visits.

With its rich history, meticulous restoration, and exceptional dining and drinking experiences, the heritage-listed GPO building has reestablished itself as a premier destination in Fortitude Valley, leaving visitors eagerly anticipating the opening of The Tax Office, another captivating venue located just around the corner.

Published 21-July-2023

Brisbane Girls Grammar School to Open Junior School, Accept Years 5 and 6 Students in 2026

Photo Credit: BGGS/Facebook

Did you know that Brisbane Girls Grammar School will welcome over 200 students from Years 5 and 6 in 2026, when it opens its new Junior School?

Considered one of the top public grammar schools in QLD, Brisbane Girls Grammar School (BGGS) currently caters to students from Year 7 to 12.

In a letter sent to families on Monday, 16 July 2023,the school announced its plans to establish a Junior School, to be housed in a purpose-designed, five-storey building located at 89 Gregory Terrace, directly across from the existing Spring Hill campus.

Applications for Years 5 and 6 are now open, with priority given to parents who had initially applied for their child to enter Year 7 in 2028.

The expansion to Years 5 and 6 at BGGS is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing a comprehensive and immersive educational experience to its students. Each class in the Junior School will consist of 25 students, led by a dedicated primary school teacher. The official schooling hours for these new year levels are yet to be confirmed.

Brisbane Girls Grammar School — Photo Credit: BGGS/Facebook

Principal Jacinda Euler Welsh, who has been with the school since 2013, expressed her enthusiasm for the addition of the Junior School. She highlighted the benefits that younger students would gain from an early introduction to BGGS, citing the small and supportive close-knit community of BGGS.

The decision to incorporate Years 5 and 6 into BGGS was carefully considered by the Board of Trustees. The school’s new junior campus will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a library, science, art, and music spaces, a tuckshop, and various green play areas.

Furthermore, students in the Junior School will have access to the existing BGGS campus facilities, such as the pool, sports center, sports fields, and outdoor education centers.

BGGS’s expansion to include Years 5 and 6 is expected to be well-received by the community, where it enjoys an excellent reputation of providing a comprehensive, liberal education for girls and young women.

This achievement further solidifies BGGS’s position as a leading educational institution in the state.

The expansion is poised to further enhance its esteemed reputation for academic excellence and holistic education, fostering a nurturing environment for young girls to thrive.

Brisbane Girls Grammar School has posted the highest operating profit among all eight public grammar schools in Queensland. The school reported an operating profit exceeding $9 million in 2022, making it a financially robust institution.

BGGS Principal Jacinda Euler Welsh was the highest-paid school leader in Queensland in 2021 and the second highest-paid in 2022, after Richard Morrison, Headmaster and CEO of Ipswich Grammar School.

Published 20-July-2023

Queen’s Wharf Opening Delayed Due to Construction Crisis

Photo Credit: Photo Credit: Queenswharfbrisbane.com.au

The highly anticipated opening of The Star’s Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane has been dealt another setback as construction delays forced the project to be pushed back from its initial Christmas launch date.

The Star Group’s chief executive and managing director Robbie Cooke explained that the decision to postpone the opening was made after a careful assessment of the current progress by the project’s builder.

In a statement made last month, The Star Group revealed the new opening date for April 2024.

Mr Cooke acknowledged that Queen’s Wharf has faced challenges similar to other major infrastructure projects across Australia. Despite the disappointment caused by the delay, Cooke emphasised that the transformational development, which has been eight years in the making so far, will undoubtedly be worth the wait.

“We are disappointed, but this transformational development for Brisbane has been eight years in the making already, and it will be well worth the wait. Queen’s Wharf will be a game-changer for a city that continues to attract the eyes of the world as we charge towards the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

The Queen’s Wharf project, a sprawling $3.6-billion integrated resort development, is a joint venture between Australia’s Star Entertainment Group and partners Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium International. The venture is collectively known as the Destination Brisbane Consortium.

The postponement marks the second time the opening date has been revised, following a previous delay announced in July 2022. Back then, factors such as rising material costs, pandemic-related disruptions, and adverse weather conditions resulted in a six-month setback and a 10 per cent increase in the project’s cost.

Despite the setbacks, The Star Group has made some progress in recent weeks. The consortium received control of several dining, entertainment, and gaming areas on Levels 5 and 6 of the resort from building contractor Multiplex, enabling The Star to begin preparations for their opening.

In addition, the third and final Sky Deck bridge section was successfully installed, allowing for the completion of the Sky Deck and its connection to all four towers of the Queen’s Wharf development. The Sky Deck, a 250-meter open-air rooftop runway of bars and restaurants, will offer breathtaking panoramic views from 100 meters above the Brisbane River and accommodate up to 1,500 visitors.

The Queen’s Wharf development, situated on both sides of William Street in Brisbane’s CBD, is the largest undertaking in Queensland’s history and the most extensive casino resort in Australia. Despite the challenges faced during construction, the project is expected to bring immense economic and social benefits to the city, especially as Brisbane gears up to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Published 17-July-2023

The Calile Hotel Brings France to Brisbane with New Lobby Bar

The Lobby Bar at The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley has recently opened its doors, offering guests a taste of France without having to leave Brisbane.

Read: The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation

The seasonal, French-inspired menu was curated by Head Chef Andy Gunn and includes light and refreshing dishes. The latest menu includes Kingfish Carpaccio, battered Zucchini Flowers, and Flambé Prawns.

Comfort food makes an appearance as well, with options like House Made Gnocchi, Braised Brisket, and Steak Frites available for heartier appetites.

Fondant Chocolat (Photo credit: Lobby Bar/Facebook)

And no French-style menu would be complete without dessert. The Lobby Bar offers canelés, rum-flavoured pastries with a soft custard interior and a deliciously crispy shell. Other sweet endings include Fondant Chocolat and crepes. Those who are into pastries can also enjoy the house-made treats made by Pastry Chef Amélie Gunn.

To offer guests both boutique bottles and renowned labels, sommelier Thibaud Cregut has put together a wine list that strikes a balance between small producers and famous wineries. The lobby bar also recently introduced the Coravin system, which allows premium wines to be served by the glass rather than limiting guests to full bottle purchases.

What makes this new bar unique is its rooftop garden, which provides hyper-local produce for the kitchen. Eight wooden planter boxes line the roof and are filled with lettuce, tomatoes, peas, herbs, and more.

The garden follows principles of crop rotation and composting to naturally enrich the soil. This allows Chef Gunn to highlight fresh, in-season ingredients that haven’t travelled far at all.

Read: New Entertainment Spaces, Revitalised Vibe as The Wickham Reopens

The laid back yet sophisticated setting at The Calile Hotel’s Lobby Bar makes it perfect for unwinding after work or enjoying a weekend brunch. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations through their website are recommended to secure a table. Business hours are available here.

Published 12-July-2023

QLD’s First Holocaust Museum and Education Centre Opens

Photo Credit: Facebook / The Catholic Leader

Did you know that Brisbane’s Cathedral Precinct is now home to QLD’s first Holocaust Museum and Education Centre? The museum shares the personal stories of Queenslanders who endured the horrors of the Holocaust.

The Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre features narratives from local Holocaust survivors and their families, alongside tributes to non-Jewish individuals recognised as “Righteous Among the Nations” for their courageous acts of saving Jewish lives.

Out of the 27,000 Holocaust survivors who migrated to Australia after World War II, around 200 settled in Queensland. Their first-hand testimonies, captured on film, will be available for viewing in the museum.

Photo Credit: Facebook / The Catholic Leader

Situated within the Cathedral Church of St Stephen’s grounds, it symbolises an inter-religious partnership with the Catholic Church.

Catholic Archbishop Mark Coleridge acknowledged the collaborative efforts of religious groups, government bodies, and the wider community. He underscored the importance of building bridges, choosing peace over violence, and promoting unity among all people.

“As a society, we need to work together towards a common goal that overcomes hatred and promotes peace. We need to build bridges, not walls,” the Archbishop said.

“Inter-religious partnerships like this send a strong signal to the community that we are all sisters and brothers in a world where the other is not my enemy.”

Photo Credit: The Cathedral of St Stephen, Brisbane / cathedralofststephen.org.au

Jason Steinberg, the chair of the Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre, emphasised the importance of preserving the memory of the Holocaust.

He also described the museum as a multifaceted and engaging platform, presenting the Holocaust’s narrative through the voices, stories, and artefacts of Queensland survivors.

Steinberg also highlighted that anti-Semitism, which led to the deaths of millions of European Jews during World War II, continues to persist, even in Queensland. Shockingly, up to 60 per cent of Queensland Jews have reported experiencing acts of anti-Semitism in various aspects of their lives.

To ensure accessibility, an online museum will be launched soon, and a mobile facility is being developed to travel across the state, providing valuable resources to all Queenslanders.

The Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre aims to leave a lasting legacy, inspiring individuals to stand against racism and prejudice in any form.

The opening ceremony was attended by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Chair of the Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre Jason Steinberg, and Holocaust survivors from Queensland.

Ms Palaszczuk was also the one who made the initial announcement launching the project in 2022.

Funding for the museum and education centre was made possible through a $3.5-million contribution from the state government. The contribution will be matched by the federal government and Brisbane City Council has also pledged $500,000.

This significant endeavour follows the recent implementation of Hate Crimes legislation, which bans the display of hate symbols associated with Nazi ideology. The legislation also imposes stricter penalties for offences driven by hatred or serious contempt, including existing serious vilification offences.

Published 7-July-2023

‘Artists of the North Country’ Exhibition By World’s Oldest Continuous Living Culture At Mitchell Fine Arts

Mitchell Fine Arts presents the ‘Artists of the North Country: Arnhem Land and Beyond‘ exhibition in Fortitude Valley, a one-of-a-kind showcase, featuring awe-inspiring artworks from the world’s oldest, continuous living culture.

The Artists of the North Country exhibition brings together an incredible collection of artworks about the ‘North Country,’ gathered over four decades.

The untouched beauty of Arnhem Land, nestled in the northeastern corner of the Northern Territory and spanning an area of ~97,000 square kilometres, holds deep ties to Australia’s First Nations people, where a rich storytelling tradition has existed for the last 50,000 years.

The area continues to be one of the largest parcels of Aboriginal-owned land in Australia today.

Lorrkon: hollow wooden logs that serve as memorial poles
Photo Credit: Supplied

Visitors will marvel at the intricate bark paintings, the beautiful hollow log memorial poles, paintings, and other intricate works on paper.

Fresh Water Dreaming. Acrylic on Canvas by Sammy Blanasi
*“Animals depicted include the freshwater crayfish, crocodiles, eels and fish. The plant is the water lily which grows profusely in the billabongs in this country and are a food source.*“
Photo Credit: Supplied

Each piece is infused with creation events and stories of profound spiritual and cultural significance. Passed down through generations, these stories are preserved through dance, ceremony, and art.

Mimi Spirit. Acrylic on canvas by Paddy Fordham.
” *Mimi are reclusive, shy spirits that inhabit the rocky escarpment country around Gunbulunya in Western Arnhem land.* *Mimis are generally friendly, only becoming angry when a wrong is done to the innocent and the defenceless.* The painting depicts a single male Mimi.”
Photo credit: Mitchell Fine Arts

These remarkable works have been part of a private collection since the early 1980s. This is the first time they have gone on the market and serious collectors are expected to seize this unique opportunity to own a piece of history.

ONLINE PREVIEW

Mitchell Fine Art is conveniently located at 86 Arthur St in Fortitude Valley. Onsite parking is available and the gallery is open six days a week, from Monday to Friday between 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The entire exhibition can be viewed online at www.mitchellfineartgallery.com.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness the richness and depth of Aboriginal art. Connect with the cultural heritage of the world’s oldest continuous living culture, right here in Fortitude Valley. Plan your visit today and let the ‘Artists of the North Country’ exhibition leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Follow Mitchell Fine Art on Facebook and Instagram, or sign up for their mailing list.

Published 6-July-2023

Indulge in a Gastronomic Paradise As the James Street Food and Wine Trail Returns in 2023!

The annual James Street Food and Wine Trail is back, so be prepared to go on a gastronomic journey this July that will take you through exotic tastings, limited-edition events, and a festive Market Day!

Read: Multimillion-Dollar Dining Concept Set to Bring New Life to Chinatown in Fortitude Valley

Trail Days

The first three days of the 4-day event are known as Trail Days, where participants can expect to attend tastings, ticketed in-venue events, and limited editions culinary treats.

From Thursday, 27 July to Saturday, 29 July 2023, “trail-seekers” will have the opportunity to explore a range of dishes from establishments in the inner city.

Food and Wine Trail — Photo credit: Gerard’s Bar/Facebook

Gerard’s Bar will kick off the festivities by hosting a Lebanese pizza party, where guests can experience the fusion of Lebanese flavours with the beloved pizza tradition.

Harveys Bar + Bistro will also join in, presenting the simple, refined food that has Chef and owner PJ McMillan’s unpretentious, seasonal cuisine so popular among the James St set.

For those with a sweet tooth, Jocelyn’s Provisions will present a delightful selection of their sweet and savoury winter offerings.

The Green, known for its Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, is preparing a special Friday-night dinner, allowing guests to savour a delectable meal in a vibrant and social setting.

Meanwhile, Cantinho will be bringing the flavours of Greece to the event, serving up tantalising souvlaki to conclude the workweek on a high note.

Fans of Italian and French fusion will be happy to know that Mosconi will also participate, with hopefully some of the crowd favourites such as Cheese served with pear, quince, fennel and raisin crostini or delicious pasta selections on offer.

Market Day

The pot of gold at the end of this colourful culinary trail is Market Day. On Sunday, 30 July, the entire stretch of James Street, from McLachlan to Arthur Street, will be transformed into a sprawling culinary market.

Market Day will be a feast for the senses.

The street will transform into one immense dining room, where visitors can sample restaurant-quality food and drinks provided by the leading venues of James Street.

Five live music stages will keep the street buzzing with melodious tunes throughout the day.

There will be special activities for children so families can enjoy the festivities together.

Tables will be set up for communal dining, and dance parties will add an extra element of excitement to the festivities.

With more than 20,000 attendees in 2022, the James Street Food and Wine Trail has solidified its place as a must-attend event for food lovers. The 2023 edition promises an even more exceptional experience, with participating venues offering unique menus and experiences.

Read: The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation

Visit James St’s website for more information about the 2023 Food and Wine Trail.

Published 3-July-2023

The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation

Photo Credit: Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The GPO Hotel in Fortitude Valley is getting ready to reopen its doors on 8 July after a massive $9-million transformation.

The interior of the GPO Hotel has been completely revamped, creating new and exciting spaces for visitors to enjoy. The upper level will be home to The Gatsby, a luxurious lounge bar with plush velvet booths, elegant leather accents, and stylish brass features.

The Gatsby offers a sophisticated and upscale atmosphere. One of the highlights is the restored original vault from 1887, now serving as a centrepiece. Alongside a wide array of alcoholic beverages and soulful tunes of saxophones, guests will be treated to a fantastic selection of cocktails.

The GPO Hotel to Unveil Its Stunning Transformation — *Photo Credit: Artesian Hospitality Corp /* gatsbylounge.au

But that’s not all! On the ground floor, there awaits a contemporary restaurant known as TAMA. Picture a stunning double-storey atrium adorned with lofty ceilings and expansive windows, allowing the warm glow of natural light to fill the space. Within the captivating retro ambience of TAMA, patrons will have the pleasure of savouring a truly exceptional dining experience.

Executive Chef Richard Ousby, who honed his culinary skills at renowned eateries including the Waterside Inn in England and Quay in Sydney, has prepared an excellent lunch. Guests can experience mouthwatering pasta dishes, hand-selected seafood, and premium meat cuts, including a delicious two-kilogram Angus tomahawk and wagyu scotch fillet prepared to order.

The extensive wine selection of over 1,000 handpicked bottles, including exclusive vintages, ensures there is something to suit every budget.

The project successfully blends modern finishes with the building’s original architectural elements, such as exposed beams, brickwork, and the Victorian Italianate facade, preserving its historic charm.

In the future, the GPO Hotel plans to introduce The Tax Office, a lively venue perfect for post-work drinks and midweek dinners. With an island bar and comfortable lounge-style seating, The Tax Office aims to create a vibrant and welcoming space for patrons to relax and socialise.

Published 28-June-2023

Multimillion-Dollar Dining Concept Set to Bring New Life to Chinatown in Fortitude Valley

Chinatown in Fortitude Valley is set to experience a vibrant revival with the introduction of a groundbreaking dining concept that promises to breathe new life into the struggling precinct.

Renowned chef and hospitality expert, Vince Moefa’auo, the mastermind behind the successful Bowen Hills cafe Halo Ground, is gearing up to launch Mr Duncan later this year. This ambitious project will feature a 300-seat restaurant and bar, housing five individually operated kitchens that will serve diverse cuisines.

The innovative concept of Mr Duncan allows diners to order from multiple cuisines simultaneously, enabling them to enjoy a variety of flavors in a shared dining experience.

With the gradual decline of Chinatown, which has been marred by vacant storefronts and “for lease” signs, Moefa’auo believes that revitalisation is long overdue. He expressed his passion for the area, stating that Chinatown is “one most important parts of Brissie and one of our food districts.”

As a former chef at Brisbane’s renowned fine dining establishment Esquire and Melbourne’s esteemed Vue de Monde, Moefa’auo’s expertise and vision are expected to attract businesses and patrons back to the Chinatown precinct. By providing a range of affordable culinary options from different vendors, he aims to create a bustling atmosphere that entices new markets to invest and brings additional offerings to the area.

In addition to the expansive restaurant and bar, Moefa’auo is actively pursuing Council approval to construct a kiosk-style bar and eatery in the heart of the mall. This strategic move aims to further encourage foot traffic and inject vibrancy into the once stark strip.

“It’s all about enlivening the street. Brunswick St is the party district, and this is more the start-off district, where you come first for a few drinks and to eat,” Moefa’auo said.

Three of the five eateries for Mr Duncan have already been confirmed. Diners can expect a Japanese, Vietnamese, and a meat-focused operator. The daytime menu will feature a casual selection, including sushi, banh mi, and pork and gravy rolls. As the day progresses into the evening, the menu will transition to a more premium dining experience, offering sashimi, charcuterie, whole fish, and shareable 1kg+ Tomahawk steaks.

Anticipation is building as the opening of Mr Duncan is slated for November 2023.

Published 25-June-2023

Discover a Slice of Southern California in Fortitude Valley at Viva La Cali

Photo Credit: Viva La Cali / Instagram

Fortitude Valley’s California Lane now has a vibrant addition called Viva La Cali, an eatery inspired by the sunny shores of Southern California.

Created by Marc Grey and chef Steve Maiden, Viva La Cali brings the lively cuisine and relaxed vibe of the region to Brisbane, Australia.

Grey and Maiden have expanded their vision with Viva La Cali, immersing patrons in the captivating essence of California. His travels on California’s south coast, where he was drawn to the food scene, gave Grey his inspiration.

Discover a Slice of Southern California in Fortitude Valley at Viva La Cali — Photo Credit: Viva La Cali / Instagram

Nestled in the heart of California Lane, Viva La Cali creates an inviting ambience. Steen Jones’ palm tree-heavy artwork adorns the venue, capturing an authentic Californian atmosphere. The space, spanning 80 square meters, features exposed brick, dark timber accents, and lush greenery with hanging pot plants and palm trees. The venue offers seating for up to 50 guests seated or 70 in a cocktail-style setup.

As for the food, Chef Maiden skilfully blends flavours from Central and South America, with a focus on Mexican and Peruvian cuisines. Drawing from his experience at Baja Fortitude Valley, he offers tantalising dishes that pay homage to the region. The menu includes five distinct tacos, such as beef carnitas with pineapple and habanero salsa, and a banh mi-inspired option with crispy chicken, pickled vegetables, and pate.

Other notable dishes include causa rellena, a layered potato and chicken dish from Peru, and Peruvian empanadas. For dessert, patrons can indulge in picarones, and crispy fried doughnuts with a chancaca glaze.

To complement the flavourful fare, Grey crafts an impressive cocktail menu, showcasing his passion for mixology. Each element, from syrups to bitters, is made in-house. Guests can enjoy innovative creations like the Watermelon Margy Hiiiii, featuring house-made watermelon cordial and a natural watermelon rind sour strap, or the Bugs Bunny Margarita with house-made sour carrot juice. Classic favourites like Margaritas and Palomas also grace the menu. A concise, Mediterranean-leaning wine list completes the beverage offerings.

Viva La Cali offers more than just a dining experience. On Sundays, they offer a $79 two-hour bottomless margarita and taco extravaganza. The establishment also hosts California Lane laneway parties with live music and local chef and kitchen takeovers, ensuring a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Viva La Cali captures the essence of Southern California, offering a memorable dining experience, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Located in Fortitude Valley’s California Lane, this California-inspired gem promises an unforgettable taste of the Golden State.

Published 22-June-2023