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Shortgrain Thai Store and Eatery Opening Soon in Fortitude Valley

Do you love Thai food? Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as Shortgrain, a new Thai store and eatery, is set to open its doors at the Stewart and Hemmant building in Fortitude Valley in August 2023.

Read: Discover Antico: Burnett Lane’s Newest Bar Venture in Super Whatnot’s Former Location

Imagine the incredible taste of steamed duck and winter melon soup, or the pure delight of a perfectly fried whole fish with spicy green chilli nam jim.

At Shortgrain, you will feel like you have been transported straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand, where the flavours are bold and the aromas are irresistible.

But Shortgrain is not just going to be a place for amazing food. It’s a culinary treasure trove waiting to be discovered. They will also stock the shelves with homemade curry pastes, imported products, and the freshest ingredients you can imagine.

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A post shared by Martin Boetz (@shortgrainbymb)

From crunchy snake beans to fragrant Thai basil, each item is carefully chosen to create an authentic experience that will leave you wanting more.

The mastermind behind this culinary haven is none other than the award-winning Sydney chef, Martin Boetz. After leaving a mark on Sydney’s food scene with his extraordinary talent, Chef Boetz has now brought his expertise to his hometown of Brisbane.

When Chef Boetz stumbled upon the tenancy inside the historic Stewart and Hemmant building in Fortitude Valley, it was love at first sight. Boasting a spacious 225 sqm area adorned with high ceilings and large windows, this location provides the perfect canvas for Shortgrain to come to life.

Stewart and Hemmant building (Photo credit: Google Street View)

With Shortgrain, his vision is to create simple yet unforgettable dishes that are perfect for sharing or savouring on your own.

Read: Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves

Chef Boetz is looking forward to opening his new venture by late August 2023, at the Stewart and Hemmant building, located at 2 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley. Follow @shortgrainbymb on Instagram to stay updated about the store’s opening.

Published 17-June-2023

Gotha Street Office Building Sold for $9.725-M in Fortitude Valley

A three-storey office building at 123 Gotha Street in Fortitude Valley has been sold to a local investor for an impressive $9.725 million.

Situated on a 902-square-metre inner-city site, the fully leased property has a net lettable area of 1,638 square metres and offers 23 secure car parking spaces. It is currently the headquarters of Torrens University Australia.

Despite the challenging environment created by the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuating interest rates, the property has remained a steady source of income for its investors.

Cal Doggett, Managing Director of Properties & Pathways, expressed satisfaction with the sale. Acknowledging the bittersweet nature of parting with such a prime location in a developing area, Doggett emphasised that the decision was driven by the company’s commitment to putting investors’ interests first and exploring new investment opportunities.

One of the most attractive aspects of this property is its corner location. With a generous 30.4-metre frontage on Gotha Street and 27.2 metres on Agnes Street, the building has enormous potential for future development. Its location in “Brisbane’s fastest growing inner-city office market” made it an even more attractive investment opportunity.

Knight Frank’s Barker emphasised the value of this established asset and the opportunities it offers for repositioning and development. In addition to the building’s secure cash flow and high-quality covenant, the prospect of implementing a re-leasing initiative in line with the burgeoning occupier market in Fortitude Valley added significant value.

Generating a net income of $905,116 per annum with fixed reviews of 3.5%, the property’s impressive Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 1.86 years by income is testament to its stability. Barker highlighted the potential to accommodate multiple tenancies, capitalising on the area’s popularity with occupiers. Accessible transport links and a wealth of amenities further enhance its appeal.

Fortitude Valley's 123 Gotha Street Office Building Sold for $9.725 Million, Promising Future Potential — Photo Credit: Maksym Kozlenko / Wikimedia Commons

Fortitude Valley’s continuous transformation, fueled by both public and private investments, adds allure to this property’s location. Renowned for its world-class shopping, exquisite dining options, stunning architecture and excellent transport infrastructure, the suburb has undergone a remarkable urban rejuvenation, cementing its status as a premier destination.

The sale at 123 Gotha Street is well timed to coincide with ongoing and future development projects in Fortitude Valley. These include the Valley Heart Precinct, Fortitude Valley Metro, Cross River Rail, Brisbane Metro, Brisbane Live, Waterfront Brisbane, Queens Wharf and the highly anticipated Brisbane 2032 Summer Olympics. The property is poised to reap the benefits of the area’s growth and the exciting prospects these projects bring.

Published 17 June 2023

Museum of Brisbane Celebrates 60 Years of Clay-Making at Brisbane Art Design 2023

In a vibrant celebration of Brisbane’s thriving art and design scene, the Museum of Brisbane marked a significant milestone with “60 Years of Clay-Making,” an exhibition for Brisbane Art Design 2023.

In its third biennial program, Brisbane Art Design (BAD) 2023 showcased the city’s finest visual, craft and design work — encouraging creativity and displaying Brisbane’s unique artistic voice.

Curated under the guidance of Cathy de Silva, BAD’s Executive Producer and Acting CEO of the Museum of Brisbane, the exhibition brought together a select collection of contemporary ceramics.

Unveiling the evolution of clay-making over six decades, this extraordinary showcase mirrored Brisbane’s arts sector’s growth and innovation.

“Our former CEO, Renai Grace, identified a need to celebrate the design and art sector in Brisbane and felt that MoB could bring together an event that would demonstrate Brisbane’s unique voice,” de Silva said.

Throughout the exhibition, audiences were captivated by the transformative power of clay and its ability to shape and redefine the artistic landscape. Brisbane Art Design 2023 was the culmination of 60 years of clay making, an achievement that stands as a testament to the city’s artistic heritage and promising future.

About the Museum of Brisbane

Museum of Brisbane Celebrates 60 Years of Clay-Making at Brisbane Art Design 2023 — View of the copper dome from the Museum of Brisbane.
Photo Credit: John Robert McPherson / Wikimedia Commons

The Museum of Brisbane, located within Brisbane City Hall, is a renowned history and art museum that serves as a hub for exploring the dynamic life, histories, and contemporary cultures of Brisbane. With a mission to “deepen the understanding of place,” the museum showcases the diverse people, passions, and ever-evolving cultural landscape of the city.

Situated on the top floor of City Hall in a purpose-built gallery, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Clock Tower and copper dome while immersing themselves in engaging exhibitions and immersive experiences. As a leading institution, the Museum of Brisbane invites individuals to discover and appreciate the vibrant culture and rich stories that shape the city’s identity.

For more information about the Museum of Brisbane, visit the website here.

Published 17 June 2023

Discover Antico: Burnett Lane’s Newest Bar Venture

Antico, a brand-new bar with an intimate Italian vibe, will soon open its doors on Burnett Lane.

Read: Experience a Perfect Blend of Tradition and Excellence at La Cache a Vin

Set to open in mid-July, Antico is the brainchild of the Cuatro Group, known for their impeccable transformation of heritage sites into thriving cocktail bars such as Death & Taxes, also along Burnett Lane and Dr Gimlette on Edward St.

Inside Death and Taxes Brisbane (Photo credit: Chris Buchanan/Google Maps)

The group’s vision has always revolved around creating an intimate space, manned by a team of two to three skilled bartenders. With this latest endeavour, they will finally see their dream come to fruition.

Photo credit: Death & Taxes Brisbane/Facebook

Drawing inspiration from its Italian roots, Antico will seamlessly blend the familiar elements of leather chairs, intricate tiling work, and a captivating black marble bar, all reminiscent of the group’s other two esteemed establishments in Brisbane.

Guests will be able to savour the flavours of Italy through a selection of delectable bar snacks, including bruschetta, cheese, and cold-cut meats. These tantalising offerings are set to complement the bar’s classic cocktail-oriented concept.

Read: Newly Revamped The Wickham Hotel Brings Back Fabulous Fun, Food, and Entertainment

The team plans to present a house Negroni featuring their distinctive vermouth blend, Campari, and a joint gin creation with Nosferatu, a distillery based in Bowen Hills.

In preparation for its July opening, Antico has transformed the space formerly occupied by Super Whatnot, giving it a whole new look and feel. The industrial vibe of Super Whatnot is gone, replaced with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s designed to make people feel comfortable and eager to be back.

Published 15-June-2023

New Entertainment Spaces, Revitalised Vibe as The Wickham Reopens

Photo Credit: The Wickham / thewickham.com.au

Cocktails served in disco balls. A weather-proof beer garden. Vibrant artwork set in whimsical spaces reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland and the pub’s peacock. These are some of the reasons why you should check out Fortitude Valley’s beloved pub, The Wickham, now open after an extensive makeover.

A fusion of heritage and contemporary design

With an investment of $3.1 million, The Wickham’s renovation has been a labour of love. The skilled team at Newline Design successfully merged the site’s heritage-listed elements with fresh aesthetics.

As you explore the venue, you’ll encounter a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern upgrades, creating a unique atmosphere that pays homage to the pub’s 138-year-old legacy. The addition of a new kitchen further enhances the culinary offerings, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all guests.

The Peacock Room and Garland Room

Among the revitalised spaces within The Wickham, the old corner bar and studio areas have been transformed into The Peacock Room and Garland Room, respectively. The Peacock Room exudes a relaxed atmosphere, featuring vintage furniture, local LGBTQIA+ artwork, and subtle nods to the pub’s beloved peacock, Frankie. It serves as the perfect spot for leisurely drinks and conversations.

Meanwhile, upstairs, the Garland Room awaits with an enchanting Alice in Wonderland theme, complete with eclectic wallpaper and furnishings. This whimsical space hosts the venue’s legendary club nights and offers a captivating setting for special celebrations.

Revamped The Wickham Hotel Brings Back Fabulous Fun, Food, and Entertainment — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ The* Wickham

The refurbished venue also brings back a plethora of entertainment options including the Thursday night trivia which takes place in the renovated beer garden, whilst live music performances energise the atmosphere from Friday to Sunday.

Additionally, drag shows are scheduled on Friday and Saturday evenings, showcasing the Valley’s best queens. The Peacock Room will also be home to a monthly bottomless brunch with a burlesque twist, as well as comedy events and more.

Culinary delights and quirky drinks

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Dylan Kemp, The Wickham presents a new menu. From stone-baked pizzas to delectable bar snacks and late-night options, the diverse selection caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free dishes.

Highlights include cauliflower hot bites, fried quail with truffle mash, and indulgent treats like deep-fried Golden Gaytimes and fairy bread. Moreover, furry companions are not forgotten, as The Wickham offers a dedicated dog menu featuring enticing options such as crispy pig skin, meatballs, and sweet treats like the Ruff Day bowl.

Not to forget, beverage Director Kevin Peters has crafted a drinks menu that pays homage to the 70s disco era. Expect a delightful array of creative concoctions, including the signature Disco Fruit Tingle cocktails served in eye-catching disco balls. Glitter Bellinis adorned with edible glitter and frozen G&Ts made with pineapple tonic add a touch of whimsy to the experience.

For those opting for non-alcoholic beverages, The Wickham has expanded its range of non-alcoholic wines, spirits, beers, and cocktails, featuring refreshing options such as the No-groni and the Espresso Marti-no.

If you haven’t experienced the magic of The Wickham recently, now’s the time to plan your visit and experience a fabulous evening packed with top-notch entertainment and delectable cuisine.

Whether you seek a relaxed afternoon in the beer garden or an exhilarating night of dancing, The Wickham promises an unforgettable experience.

For trading hours or if you would like to enquire or book a table, check out their website here.

Published 12-June-2023

Revamped and Ready: Riverland Receives $3.5 Million Makeover

Photo Credit: Facebook | Riverland Brisbane

Riverland has reopened on Eagle Street in Brisbane, after undergoing a $3.5 million transformation to offer an enhanced drinking and dining experience.

Riverland’s revamp includes a remarkable 800-sqm deck extension, which has become its most impressive feature. The riverfront venue now offers a sprawling three-tiered deck, capable of accommodating up to 1,000 guests.

The venue’s transformation shines with its impressive 800-square-metre deck extension, the centrepiece of the makeover. This riverfront haven now showcases a three-tiered deck, catering to a capacity of up to 1,000 guests.

The top-tier sky deck treats visitors to breathtaking views of the renowned Story Bridge, complete with a brand-new container bar. On the promenade deck, guests can enjoy live music performances on a dedicated stage and catch sporting events on a large screen.

Revamped and Ready: Riverland Elevates Drinking and Dining Experience With Its $3.5 Million Makeover — *Photo Credit: Facebook |* Riverland Brisbane

The revitalised Riverland also introduces two new kitchen concepts. The Queenslander offers pub favourites including chicken wings in pineapple rum barbecue glaze, Mooloolaba prawn san choy bow, and cure tin can bay cuttlefish.

Check out The Traveller which takes inspiration from international street food, featuring Mexican delights like fried tortillas with guacamole, tomato salsa, and sour cream; cured red emperor tostadas with avocado, chilli jam and sesame; and roasted tortilla soup made with poached chicken, avocado, sour cream and crunch tortilla.

The beverage menu has also been updated, bringing fresh and innovative alternatives that will please visitors. Think Burst My Bubble, a specialty cocktail, and hot watermelon margaritas.

There is something for everyone with an extended menu of cocktails heavy on spirits, 16 beers and ciders on tap, and a carefully chosen wine list.

With its extended deck areas and many menu options, the riverfront venue is the ideal location for all kinds of events. Riverland has the ideal function space to meet your demands, from small gatherings to a complete venue lease for up to 1,000 guests, whether it’s a corporate meeting or a social event.

Head to Riverland at 167 Eagle Street and experience the new waterfront oasis that awaits you.

Published 24-May-2023

Milestone for 251 Wickham Street: Court Challenges Resolved, Office Tower Project Advancing

The approval of a 28-storey office tower in Fortitude Valley, also known as ‘251 Wickham Street’ has faced opposition from various parties. However, opponents have recently withdrawn their appeals after reaching an agreement with the developer, leading to a significant breakthrough for the project.

Read: Proposed Redevelopment of BMW Fortitude Valley to Feature Innovative Business Bar

PJP Properties, who own the nearby former McWhirters Bulk Store, initially appealed Brisbane City Council’s approval in May 2022 but they decided to withdraw their appeal several months later following negotiations with Pidson Investments, the developer behind the tower.

McWhirters Bulk Store is a heritage-listed building built in 1919 to serve as a bulk store, a time in which the company was undergoing expansion.

McWhirters, 2020 (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons)

During the approval process in 2022, the Council emphasised the importance of protecting the adjacent heritage site. Specific measures were outlined to ensure the preservation and protection of the neighbouring heritage place. These measures include, but are not limited to, safeguarding the footings, wall cladding, and roof sheeting of the heritage property.

251 Wickham Street — Photo credit: Bureau Proberts

The development application received a few submissions, with some locals expressing concerns about the scale of the project. They argued that constructing a 28-storey building on a 1,357 sqm site is disproportionate to the existing character and amenity of the locality.

Despite these objections, the withdrawal of court challenges by opponents and the subsequent agreement between PJP Properties and Pidson Investments signify a significant turning point for the project.

Once completed, it will stand as one of the tallest towers in Fortitude Valley, making its mark on Brisbane’s skyline.

The majority of the building will be allocated for commercial purposes, with an emphasis on providing space for various businesses. Additionally, the ground floor will be specifically designed to accommodate dining establishments and retail stores.

The development also includes provisions for 58 parking spaces and 108 bicycle spaces, acknowledging the need for sustainable transportation options.

Unlike traditional rectangular structures, this tower designed by Bureau Proberts adopts a tapered form, sloping down towards Warner Street whilst offering expansive views of Brisbane’s city centre.

Read: Iconic Alice Street High-Rise The Gardens Apartments Sold for $130M

Architects at Bureau Proberts explained that the 251 Wickham Street form and architectural expression provides a striking alternative to the commercial offerings of the Brisbane CBD and the northern valley fringe, strengthening the Valley’s long held, independent and culturally diverse character.

Published 24-May-2023

Proposed Redevelopment of BMW Fortitude Valley to Feature Innovative Business Bar

Imagine unwinding in a luxurious business bar whilst your vehicle is being serviced. This extraordinary concept is one of the exciting plans being introduced at BMW Fortitude Valley.

Read: Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Prepares to Open in Stages in 2023

Located at 800 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, the BMW showroom could undergo a transformative refurbishment and minor extension, if its development application gets approved.

Designed by ERA Architects, the application aims to revitalise and upgrade the existing dealership and service centre, which will require minor internal and external demolitions.

Artist’s impression of the seating areas (Photo credit: ERA Architects)

In addition to the business bar and customer lounges, the ground floor of the establishment will showcase an array of impressive features.

Among the highlights of the ground level will be an elegant arrival area with a dedicated concierge service solely focused on vehicle servicing. The space will also accommodate ample service and customer car parking spaces, ensuring convenience for patrons.

Furthermore, there will be designated areas for staff bicycle storage and parking, a vehicle display section to showcase BMW’s finest models, as well as office rooms for administrative tasks and customer meetings.

To enhance versatility, multi-function bays will be available for both vehicle displays and meetings. Additionally, the establishment will house a well-equipped workshop, detailing area, and programming space.

Site plan ( Photo credit: ERA Architects)

Level 1 will offer a dedicated recreation area for employees, whilst Level 2 will feature a lunchroom, training facilities, and a comprehensive technical library.

The proposed refurbishment and redevelopment plan also seeks to address crucial aspects of the facility. One notable improvement is the increase in on-site car parking spaces from 164 to 203, representing a significant boost of 39 spaces compared to the current capacity.

Read: Oasis: New Luxury Party Boat Sets Sail on the Brisbane River

The proposal also aims to consolidate vehicular access to the service centre from Bridge Street, streamlining the customer experience.

Published 23-May-2023

Experience a Perfect Blend of Tradition and Excellence at La Cache a Vin

Photo Credit: La Cache a Vin/Facebook

Despite the change in ownership, La Cache a Vin, a popular French restaurant in Spring Hill, continues to impress with its brilliant service and traditional food. Loyal patrons can breathe a sigh of relief as the new owners, Romain Maunier and Dan Arnold, maintain the restaurant’s well-established path.

Formerly owned by Thierry and Carol Galichet, who are well-known in Brisbane’s culinary community, La Cache a Vin was poised for a big change once the restaurant was sold.

Frequent guests, however, will be happy to know that La Cache a Vin remains true to its roots, with Mr Maunier overseeing operations and ensuring attentive service from an experienced team, and Mr Arnold creating his signature dishes.

The menu proudly showcases robust bistro offerings. Starters tantalize with options like roquefort brulee or foie gras. The entrees range from deep-fried lamb’s brains to snails in a delicious puff pastry duvet. Mains include venison, eye fillet with house-made French fries and salad, or roasted lamb. For a satisfying finale, the creme brulee remains an enticing option.

La Cache a Vin’s extensive drinks list is an opus, offering a variety, whilst complimentary still and sparkling water set the tone, followed by a selection of aperitifs and cocktails.

The wine selection, once curated by Galichet, is a treat, spanning from kir, Ricard, and Pastis to a page dedicated to Champagnes.

La Cache A Vine — *Photo Credit:* LaCacheAVin/Facebook

Whites take centre stage, particularly chardonnay, followed by an extensive exploration of reds, including pinot noir. The selection concludes with an array of sweet wines, such as the legendary Chateau d’Yquem.

Lovers of traditional French fare can rest assured that La Cache a Vin continues to deliver exceptional culinary experiences. The restaurant’s commitment to hospitality is unwavering, even maintaining its phone-only booking system. This French gem in Spring Hill is well worth a visit.

Follow La Cache a Vin on Facebook for opening hours, reservations and updates.

Published 21-May-2023

Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves

Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves / howardsmithwharves.com

Prepare yourself for FESTA ITALIANA, happening over two weekends in May and June! This eagerly anticipated Italian food market is taking place at the Howard Smith Wharves.

Read: Iconic Alice Street High-Rise The Gardens Apartments Sold for $130M

From 26 to 28 May and 2 to 4 June, Howard Smith Wharves will be transformed into a bustling Italian food market.

Experience the excitement of FESTA ITALIANA with the presence of esteemed guest Chef Orazio D’Elia from the popular Italian hotspot “Da Orazio,” a Bondi Beach favourite.

Hailing from Naples, Chef Orazio infuses his expertise and passion into the event to showcase his exceptional interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine.

Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves — Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves / howardsmithwharves.com

Chef Orazio’s culinary journey has taken him from prestigious establishments like Icebergs Dining Room and Bar in Sydney to the opening of Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta in Bondi Beach.

Chef Orazio will be serving up his famous ‘Vodka Rigatoni,’ a mouth-watering pasta dish featuring a creamy tomato and vodka sauce, generously topped with parmesan cheese.

Another must-try is the ‘Focaccia con Porchetta,’ a fan favourite made with succulent rotisserie porchetta, marinated grilled eggplant, crisp cos lettuce, and creamy mayonnaise, all sandwiched between slices of Schiacciatina bread.

FESTA ITALIANA also offers a plethora of other authentic Italian delights. Indulge in freshly made pasta from a live pasta station, savour the rich flavours of local Casa Motta Buffalo Mozzarella, delight in wood-fired bread, and satisfy your sweet tooth with creamy gelato.

All these, as you sip on classic Italian beverages or your beloved Aperol Spritz.

Beyond the food, FESTA ITALIANA promises a lively and immersive atmosphere. Take a seat on the lawn, sip on a refreshing Spritz, and let the live music transport you to the bustling streets of Naples. The entertainment lineup will captivate you, showcasing the vibrant spirit and energy of Italian culture.

Read: Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Prepares to Open in Stages in 2023

So mark your calendars and make your way to Howard Smith Wharves for FESTA ITALIANA and celebrate the magnificence of Italian culture, cuisine, and hospitality in a truly unforgettable experience.

Published 19-May-2023