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Gerard’s Bistro Appoints New Executive Chef, Will Introduce New Menu and Revamped Look Soon

Photo Credit: Facebook / Gerard’s Bistro

There will be a lot of new things in store for customers of Gerard’s Bistro when it reopens in October, after an extensive revamp to give it a new look and a new menu, thanks to Jimmy Richardson, its former Head Chef who now returns as Executive Chef with some Michelin creds under his toque.

Jimmy Richardson culinary stints include working at Leonard’s Bar & Bistro, Shangri-La Sydney’s Altitude Restaurant, The Bridge Room Café Paci, The Tilbury, and Annata.

Whilst his new menu is yet to be revealed, Chef Richardson will focus on more traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly those coming from the Levant region, but with a modern twist. He will also bring some Persian influence into his menu, thanks to a stint at a Lebanese restaurant and his Persian brother who introduced him to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Gerard’s Owner Johnny Moubarak expressed confidence that Chef Richardson’s culinary creativity will shine once the new menu is revealed. He said that his Executive Chef understands the history, flavour and structure of the dish very well which gives him confidence to innovate and give it a fresh twist.

Gerard’s Bistro was temporarily closed to undertake a major renovation, as executed by designer and architect Jared Webb. The refurbished venue will sport a minimalist design with the kitchen letting the woodfire and charcoal cooking take centre stage.

The venue commenced renovations in June and is scheduled to reopen in mid to late October. It first opened its doors 11 years ago and has established itself as one of the finest and most influential restaurants in Brisbane.

Published 26-September-2023

Hey Felicia! Drag & Dine Returns to the Valley

Photo Credit: Facebook / Hey Felicia - A Drag Queen Musical 2.0

Hey Felicia! Brisbane’s favourite drag musical extravaganza is back for a third season at Cloudland in Fortitude Valley, where six amazing divas in drag will perform songs from Mamma Mia, Chicago, Hairspray, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Priscilla Queen Of The Desert, Spice Girls, Shania Twain, Cher, Dolly Parton and many more iconic anthems.

HEY FELICIA!! Stars Vollie LaVont, Mandy Moobs, BeBe Gunn, ShuShu Funtanna, Scarlett Fever & Coco Ray with Music by Harry K!

For two amazing hours on the 29th of September 2023, experience all the glitz and glamour as not just one, not two but six Drag Queens keep you entertained throughout the Drag & Dine Musical 2.0. They will bring to life all the songs from the greatest musicals ever produced and all your favourite Divas.

Hey Felicia! Drag & Dine Returns to the Valley — *Facebook / Hey Felicia – A Drag Queen Musical 2.0*

Grab your friends for a hilarious night of fun, frivolity and timeless music this 29 September 2023. Doors open and meet the Queens from 6.30 p.m. and the show concludes at 10.30 p.m.

Ticket price is $109.1 and includes the show, alternate-drop main meal and a 2-hour drinks package with your Drag Queen hosts.

Can’t get enough of the Queens?

The Drag Queens will be back on the 20th of October 2023 for their last Drag & Dine musical regular dates.

And due to popular demand, Hey Felicia Christmas Extravaganza will bring back the Queens to cast their own brand of Christmas magic on the big stage. Catch any of their Matinee and Dinner shows on the following dates:

Sunday 26th November 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 3rd December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 10th December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 17th December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Ticket price is $105 + booking fee and includes the show, alternate-drop main meal and a 2-hour drinks package of French sparkling, wines and premium beers with your Drag Queen hosts.

Note: Drinks are available for purchase from the bar outside of the 2-hour drinks package.

Book here

Published 25-September-2023

Superstar Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

This superstar chef acclaimed for his work at iconic Sydney and Melbourne Thai restaurant Longrain has opened his first Brisbane restaurant. Charmingly named ‘Short Grain by Martin Boetz,’ the new Fortitude Valley venue is a retail store and smart-casual Thai eatery, offering good service and accessible food.

Martin Boetz is one of the few names that stand out when it comes to Thai cuisine. Celebrated for his illustrious career that includes stints in finest restaurants, two cookbooks, television appearances, numerous awards and accolades, his new venture marries his passion for Thai and South Asian cuisine with his desire to make his culinary creations accessible to everyone..

Renowned Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in the Valley — Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

Whilst hunting for a suitable location, Martin chanced upon and fell in love with a double tenancy at the 1890s Stewart & Hemmant building on McLachlan Street in Fortitude Valley.

The 225-sqm space with high ceilings, large windows and exposed brick, however, is too large for a Thai grocer. Martin thought that an eatery would be a great addition to this space. And so ‘Short Grain’ was born.

The venue features a 60-seat eatery and an in-house Asian Food retail store where patrons can buy his signature curries and other ingredients including chilli jam, soy mirin dressing, yellow-bean soy dressing, fish and soy sauces and other condiments as well as pre-prepared meals. The store also offers socially curated bottles of wine which includes a house red and white options.

The Thai Eatery offers 15 concise, mouth-watering options including snacks, salads and curries. Some of the must-try appetisers include chicken skin with smoked trout, green mango and peanut relish; hot and sour squid with Vietnamese mint, green shallots and roasted rice; and crab served with sweet pork, green papaya and betel leaves.

The Mains dishes include options include the likes of fried whole market fish served with caramelised turmeric, pineapple and fried basil; caramelised pork hock with fried garlic, chilli vinegar and coriander; and soy braised quail, crisp garlic and peppercorns and black vinegar.

Renowned Chef Opens Thai Diner and Asian Food Store in the Valley — Crisp Fried Whiting with Green Chilli & Galangal Nahm Jim | Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

The menu will eventually evolve once new head chef Daniele Passaretta takes over.

According to Martin, his return to Brisbane wasn’t about opening a restaurant; it was about a change of pace and wanting to take some time off. However, this does not mean he is ready to retire; he explains that he still has plans to open a Thai store to keep himself occupied.

Located at 15 Marshall Street, Fortitude Valley, Short Grain is open Wednesday to Saturday from 12 pm until late, and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm.

Published 23-September-2023

Rydges Fortitude Valley Welcomes New Italian Eatery Bar Gusto

The vibrant food and bar scene of Fortitude Valley has a delicious new addition with the opening of Bar Gusto on the ground floor of Rydges Fortitude Valley.

Read: Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley Closes But Owners Tease New French Concept

The 190-seat venue aims to bring authentic Italian flavours and family recipes straight from the kitchens of Executive Chef Francesco Trucco in Italy.

According to Chef Trucco, Gusto means taste and enthusiasm in Italian. He wants to share the love of food that has been passed down in his family with Brisbane families through Bar Gusto’s authentic recipes and hospitality.

True to his word, the menu focuses on handmade wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, antipasti, and seafood. Highlights include the Gusto Crab Meat Gamberoni e Caviale pizza, signature black squid linguine, and Mooloolaba tiger prawns with chilli garlic butter.

Rydges Fortitude Valley — Photo credit: Bar Gusto/Facebook

The 40-seat private dining space provides an intimate option for group dining, whilst the outdoor deck offers alfresco Italian fare. This new local hot spot is inspired by summer time dining on northern Italy’s Riviera Coast.

Guests can also belly up to the bar for Aperol spritzes and cocktails like the Gusto Aperitivo with Campari, Regal Rogue wild rose, lime, and grapefruit soda.

Trucco aims to create an immersive Italian dining experience at Gusto, where the food, drinks, and service make guests feel as though they have been transported to his hometown in Italy.

Based on the tantalising menu and family recipes straight from Trucco’s childhood, Gusto seems poised to deliver on that goal.

Read: Celebrity Chef Ben O’Donoghue to Open Italian Steakhouse ‘Establishment 203’ in Fortitude Valley

Bar Gusto is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to late, located on the ground floor of Rydges Fortitude Valley on King Street.

Published 22-September-2023

Listen Out Set to Heat Up the Showgrounds for Festival Season

The countdown to Listen Out 2023 has begun, and music enthusiasts across Australia are gearing up for an electrifying festival experience at the iconic Brisbane Showgrounds.

With a stellar lineup featuring international headliners Skrillex and Four Tet, as well as a diverse array of talented artists, this year’s Listen Out promises to be a celebration like no other.

Fresh from their Coachella performances earlier this year, Skrillex and Four Tet are all set to grace the stage at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Saturday, 23 Sept 2023. While their Coachella appearances were an unexpected delight, their headlining slots at Listen Out 2023 are eagerly anticipated, and fans can expect an unforgettable showcase of electronic and hip-hop music.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Listen Out has curated stages to cater to a wide spectrum of musical tastes.

The Atari Stage will feature some of the hottest hip-hop acts, while the 909 Stage will set the dance floor on fire with major electronic and dance artists. Meanwhile, the Prophet Stage promises cutting-edge electronic and house acts for those seeking an immersive sonic experience.

This diverse mix of talent will ensure that festival-goers have an eclectic musical journey.

Listen Out 2023 Lineup:

Arrdee
Coi Leray
Four Tet
Friction
Ice Spice
Jbee
Jpegmafia
Jyoty
Kenny Beats
Lil Uzi Vert
Mallrat
Marc Rebillet
Metro Boomin
Piri
Skrillex
Spinall
Venbee
Wongo B2B Little Fritter
Young Franco
Yunè Pinku
Ebony Boadu as host
1TBSP
Ayebatonye
Donatachi
Handsome
Kobie Dee
VV Pete
Willo
Plus triple j Unearthed artists to be announced

GRAB TICKETS

Brisbane Showgrounds General Manager of Venue Sales and Marketing, Jago Coyle, expressed his excitement about hosting Listen Out once again.

“The Brisbane Showgrounds is truly the home of the Sunshine State’s music festivals, as we have a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that set the perfect scene for any festival,” he said.

Listen Out will mark the beginning of the Spring/Summer music festival season, with many more exciting events to follow at the Brisbane Showgrounds, including Fridayz Live, Post Malone, Good Things, Wildlands NYE, and Laneway Festival in the new year.

With more than 35,000 music enthusiasts expected to gather at the Brisbane Showgrounds, Listen Out promises to be a sensational kickoff to the festival season. Tickets are still available online for those eager to join in the excitement.

The Brisbane Showgrounds precinct, located just 1.5 kilometers from Brisbane’s CBD, is Queensland’s largest indoor/outdoor events site, offering a dynamic and vibrant backdrop for events of all kinds.

For more information and ticket details, visit www.brisbaneshowgrounds.com.au.

Published 21-Sept-2023

Quintessential Secures Long-Term Lease from St Patrick’s Church for The Arbory in Fortitude Valley

A $175-million project between the historic St. Patrick’s Church and developer Quintessential in Fortitude Valley is set to redefine the city’s business landscape, paving the way for the construction of The Arbory, a cutting-edge, environmentally conscious office building.

Quintessential’s long-term leasehold agreement with St Patrick’s Church has received approval to commence the construction of The Arbory, an eight-story, $175 million office building located at 58 Morgan Street. This project represents a significant addition to the inner-city precinct and the ongoing regeneration efforts around the iconic church, which dates back to the 1880s.

The Arbory has been designed by the renowned architectural firm Blight Rayner and is poised to become a symbol of innovation and sustainability in the heart of Fortitude Valley. The building will span 15,000 square meters of space, featuring 2000-square-meter floor plates, and will stand as a 100% electric, green-powered, fossil fuel-free office space.

The site will also encompass a remarkable 4,200-square-metre public space featuring lush landscaping and Ficus Obliqua fig trees, all centred around the heritage-listed property. This ambitious development aims to harmonize modernity and history by celebrating the architectural legacy of the area while introducing state-of-the-art office facilities.

The Arbory Fortitude Valley — Photo Credit: Quintessential

The proposal’s unique design allows for the preservation of St. Patrick’s Church’s significant fabric and external elements, further enhancing the historical and cultural significance of the precinct. The plaza on the ground floor will serve as an expansive gathering space, providing a unique backdrop to the historic church and promoting visitation and awareness.

In addition to the plaza, the project will also feature a rooftop recreation deck, offering users a covered court, olive tree courtyard, sunken courtyard, seating areas, and lush greenery.

Andrew Borger, Chief Investment and Operations Officer at Quintessential, describes The Arbory as a “next-generation” workplace.

“The Arbory is supported by a unique green space environment and proximity to the retail and hospitality amenity offered by James St and the wider Fortitude Valley,” he said.

To facilitate the church’s restoration efforts, the leasing agreement between Quintessential and the Archdiocese will help fund the church’s refurbishment and upkeep. Additionally, the building will provide infrastructure support to the church, including solar power generation and potable water from its roof.

Andrew Carlton of CBRE, who has been appointed as the leasing agent for The Arbory project, anticipates a swift leasing campaign due to the high demand for premium office spaces in Fortitude Valley.

“The Arbory is a green office oasis hidden in the heart of the city fringe’s most vibrant and connected precinct.

The development application for ‘The Arbory’ can be accessed on Brisbane City Council’s Planning & Development Online platform under application A005698653.

‘The Arbory’ has been hailed as a groundbreaking project that combines cutting-edge design with environmental consciousness. It promises to redefine the concept of a modern office space while preserving and celebrating Brisbane’s historical heritage.

Published 16-Sept-2023

Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley Closes But Owners Tease New French Concept

The owners of the popular dining establishment Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley have decided to close, leaving loyal customers heartbroken. The closure isn’t the end though, as plans are afoot for a pop-up with a rotating concept to take its place.

The restaurant, which had earned its place among the top 100 restaurants in Queensland, recently underwent renovations. It ranked an impressive No. 45 in a poll recognising the best dining establishments in the state in 2022.

Nice Thai by Kid Curry will officially close in late September but it’s not the end for this culinary hotspot. The Votan brothers plan to introduce a rotating pop-up concept in its place, starting with a French-themed bistro named Mini.

Mini will serve as a sneak peek into the sibling duo’s upcoming fourth restaurant, Petite, a French bistro and wine bar slated to open along the East St thoroughfare in January 2024.

The decision to close Nice Thai by Kid Curry comes as a shock to many, as the restaurant was seemingly thriving. However, owners and brothers Cameron and Jordan Votan explained that they felt the need for a fresh concept in the space.

The Votans cited the challenge of being located in close proximity to their other successful eateries, Happy Boy and Snack Man, which may have impacted Nice Thai’s distinct identity.

“It was a hard decision. It definitely was hitting its stride, and it definitely had a level of custom that was sustainable…but for how good it was, it did suffer a little bit for being another Asian restaurant next to Happy Boy and Snack Man,” Cameron said.

Cameron explained that Mini seems to be an ideal concept for their vision. They drew inspiration from their fond culinary memories of Paris and are excited about prospect of creating an enchanting outdoor French setting. Guests will indulge in cheese platters, charcuterie boards, exquisite cocktails, and exceptional French wines.

Whilst the closure of Nice Thai by Kid Curry has left its loyal patrons saddened, the prospect of a French bistro and wine bar taking its place has generated significant anticipation among food enthusiasts.

Published 16-Sept-2023

Victoria University’s First Brisbane Campus Opens

Photo Credit: / Victoria University / vu.edu.au/vu-brisbane

Victoria University has officially opened its new flagship campus, Victoria University Brisbane, in Fortitude Valley.

Victoria University Brisbane (VU Brisbane) is modelled on the successful Sydney campus and will work in partnership with the Education Centre of Australia (ECA). VU Brisbane will offer international and domestic students globally recognised and industry-relevant courses taught by experienced academics.

According to VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker, VU Brisbane is set to transform the lives of prospective students. Professor Shoemaker further said, “We are incredibly proud to offer international students a chance to discover VU Brisbane. It marks an exciting opportunity to forge a career that is every bit as inspiring and unique as they are.”

“VU Brisbane will ensure students have the skills to either embrace further study or embark on an in-demand job. These students will join over 13,000 VU international students from across 108 countries,” she said.

Strategically located in Fortitude Valley, one of Brisbane’s liveliest hubs, the new campus offers excellent teaching quality, with a strong focus on employability, along with the VU Block Model, VU’s award-winning approach to learning.

With smaller class sizes (maximum 35 students), three-hour classes, and fast and effective feedback, the VU Block Model actively supports positive outcomes for students.

VU Brisbane features spacious rooms and workshop-style classes that encourage collaborative learning, whilst ensuring teachers and classmates get to know each other in a supportive and inclusive environment.

VU Brisbane/Sydney Campus Director, Celina Chopard said they are looking forward to meeting the inaugural VU Brisbane cohort, with almost a hundred students already enrolled in future-focused courses across IT and Business.

“We are ready to do all we can to ensure our students thrive as they begin this exciting chapter,” she said.

“International engagement has always been a key focus for VU. Ranked in the world’s top 3 per cent (THE World University Rankings), the University seeks to foster transformative educational opportunities for students, while partnering with industries and communities around the world,” said Professor John Germov, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Higher Education.

In addition to its reputation as one of the most budget-friendly destinations for international students in Australia, Brisbane boasts a rich diversity, featuring a population where approximately 33 per cent of residents hail from abroad, and 20 per cent converse in languages other than English within their households.

ECA Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rupesh Singh, said the company was delighted to build on the partnership with VU.

“After 15 years of growth at VU Sydney, it is exciting to be able to offer to students the same excellent study options in Queensland’s capital. We are confident that VU Brisbane will grow in the months and years ahead by offering high quality courses and a fantastic student experience,” Mr Singh said.

“ECA is committed to this long-term partnership, and we are grateful for the vote of confidence from VU as they expand their footprint to Brisbane – a city which offers students a wonderful lifestyle and great career opportunities.”

Explore a 360° virtual tour of Victoria University Brisbane.

Published 12-September-2023

Music Fans Flock to Fortitude Valley for Bigsound Festival

Fortitude Valley is fortunate enough to host Bigsound Festival, Australia’s largest music industry conference and festival. Held from September 5 to 8, Bigsound 2023 ended on a high note after four days and three nights packed with up-and-coming musical acts, insightful panels, and exciting revelations.

Read: Local Man Aims for Macarena World Record at Bigsound

First launched in 2002 by industry development organisation QMusic, Bigsound has grown into a thriving community of musical innovation and togetherness.

The conference now draws over 1,700 music industry delegates, whilst the festival showcases attract an impressive combined audience of more than 20,000 fans eager to discover the next big thing.

Bigsound Festival — Photo credit: bigsound.org.au

Now in its 22nd year, Bigsound brought the music to Brisbane, showcasing over 150 artists across dozens of Valley venues each night. This year’s Bigsound was full of incredible highlights that left crowds buzzing.

Powerhouse indie rocker Beckah Amani electrified audiences with her high-energy set on Wednesday night. On Wednesday and Thursday night, soulful folk duo FELIVAND wowed with their breathtaking vocal harmonies. Meanwhile, King Ivy and Southeast Desert Metal represented First Nations artists, bringing powerful messages and hard-hitting rock to the stage.

Thursday night saw the massive lineup of Battlesnake, Chitra, and Radio Free Alice take over Fortitude Valley. These three emerging acts showed off their distinct sounds and awe-inspiring talent, capping off the festival on a euphoric note.

With its impeccable track record for spotting stars on the rise, Bigsound has cemented itself as a can’t-miss event on Brisbane’s cultural calendar. Music lovers eagerly anticipate what fresh faces the festival will unveil each year, knowing Fortitude Valley will play host to future household names in the Australian music scene.

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

For both fans and aspiring musicians alike, Bigsound Festival is an unforgettable experience that epitomises the Valley’s vibrant arts culture.

Published 12-September-2023

Joedy’s Cafe Scales Back, Shuts Fortitude Valley and Sinclair Locations

After three years of rapid growth, the popular local cafe chain Joedy’s Cafe has announced it will be closing two of its Brisbane locations, including the express cafe at The Eminence in Fortitude Valley to ‘focus on providing the best possible service and menu item’ for customers.

Read: Celebrity Chef Ben O’Donoghue to Open Italian Steakhouse ‘Establishment 203’ in Fortitude Valley

In a social media post on Friday, owner Joedy Kyle said the Fortitude Valley and Sinclair locations will permanently close their doors on August 25 and 27 respectively and will have their final service at around 3:00 p.m.

“After three years of unbelievable growth we have made the decision to cut back to basics and focus on providing the best possible service and menu items for our guests,” the post read.

Joedys Cafe — Photo credit: Joedy’s Express Cafe/Google Maps

“After all we are known for providing experiences beyond expectations for our guests, even when we don’t fully hit the mark we learn and grow from these instances and become better every single day.”

Joedy’s swift expansion since opening in 2020 comes as no surprise given Kyle’s extensive hospitality experience. He has worked in several award-winning Brisbane venues including Blackbird Bar & Grill, Black Hide by Gambaro, Motorwagen Cafe & Restaurant and the nationally acclaimed specialty coffee roasters Fonzie Abbott.

However, the popular cafe appears to have grown too quickly and is now streamlining operations. Whilst the Fortitude Valley and Sinclair outposts will shut down this month, Joedy’s original New Farm and Bowen Hills locations will remain open.

In his social media announcement, Kyle encouraged customers to continue supporting small businesses, writing “We all need it and always appreciate it.”

Read: How Mary St Pub Owner Andrew Lewis Went From Cleaning Out Ashtrays to Becoming a Global Entrepreneur

Locals who have come to love their neighbourhood Joedy’s Cafe will certainly miss their regular coffee and breakfast runs, but Kyle seems confident this is the right move to get back to the cafe’s quality roots.

Published 11-September-2023