A new hospitality venue is set to open in Fortitude Valley, introducing Brisbane’s first Champagne-focused bar and bistro with a strong emphasis on grower-producer wines.
Purpose-Built Venue Brings Champagne Culture to Brisbane
A multi-level Champagne bar and bistro is preparing to launch on Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley. Called Winnifred’s, the venue will feature a curated selection of more than 360 Champagne cuvées from 63 grower-producers and established houses, stored across a collection of approximately 14,000 bottles.
The venue marks a first for Brisbane, focusing solely on Champagne across multiple hospitality zones that vary in tone and purpose.
Long-Term Vision and Planning
The concept originated more than a decade ago with founder Megan Nunn’s visits to the Champagne region in France. After years spent building connections with small-scale producers and importing their wines to Australia, Ms Nunn began the process of bringing a physical venue to life.
The chosen site in Fortitude Valley underwent a two-and-a-half-year transformation, led by Tim Stewart Architects in partnership with Bespoke Constructions. The resulting venue is divided into five Champagne-themed areas, including a bistro, a walk-in garden bar, a concierge and boutique retail space, a cellar bar, and a dedicated area for dining and tastings.
Collaboration and Interior Detail
Winnifred’s design was shaped through collaboration with Australian creatives and suppliers. Architect Tim Stewart worked with furniture designer Tom Fereday to produce chairs and tables that emphasise durability and tactile comfort, while integrating seamlessly with the space. Staff uniforms were created by Shilo Engelbrecht and Lydia Pearson, using reinterpreted traditional garments.
The interior also features ceramics from Luna Ceramics, as well as bespoke items from local and international makers, supporting a handcrafted approach across the venue.
Ethical Wine Focus
The wine program centres on ethically produced Champagne made through biodynamic and certified organic practices. The intent is to highlight wines that reflect their place of origin and the methods behind their production.
Guests can expect an evolving by-the-glass offering, with 150ml pours designed to allow more expressive tasting without compromise. The venue’s “W” pour line reflects this generous approach.
Food Offering by Experienced Chef
Chef Antoine Potier will lead the kitchen, bringing experience from e’cco Bistro and Restaurant Dan Arnold. His menu draws on culinary traditions from the Champagne region, with an emphasis on light, seasonal plates meant to accompany and enhance Champagne service.
Concept and Cultural Origins
The venue’s name and philosophy were shaped by personal experiences. Inspired by the welcoming nature of Ms Nunn’s grandmother and the growers she met in Champagne, Winnifred’s was created as a place of generous hospitality and connection — aiming to offer the same warmth found in the homes of French winemakers.
Opening Schedule
Winnifred’s is set to open in August, with reservations for the bistro opening two weeks prior to launch. The team has positioned the venue as a space for both casual drop-ins and longer meals, blending European design cues with Brisbane’s relaxed character.
Published 25-June-2025