The landmark strip, renowned for its cultural vibrancy, is set to commence rejuvenation works in the coming weeks, with completion expected by May 2024.
It comes as the developer, Tribune Properties Pty Ltd, is also set to receive several new tenancies later this year at the $375-million commercial office tower next door.
The initiative, which was approved before the pandemic, aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the concrete playground and reinvigorate the commercial space.
The forthcoming renovation project for Chinatown Mall will introduce several enhancements to the urban landscape. Planned improvements include the installation of three new garden beds, the addition of low-set seating areas, and the implementation of decorative lighting and poles.
Furthermore, the iconic carp installation will be relocated further into the mall, contributing to the overall revitalisation efforts. With a new commercial office tower already in place, the timing is ideal for enhancing the mall’s appeal and functionality.
The rejuvenation signals a resurgence of activity and interest in the Fortitude Valley precinct. Following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and years of vacant tenancies, the cultural hub is experiencing a renaissance.
As a focal point of the city’s night-time economy and a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, the rejuvenated mall is poised to continue its legacy as a cultural and culinary hub in the years to come.
Fortitude Valley is home to some of Brisbane’s best bars and restaurants. Whilst many spots in the Valley are known for upscale dining, the area also boasts excellent bar snacks to accompany your cocktail or beer. From Italian charcuterie to Asian-inspired small plates, here are five places in Fortitude Valley with bar snacks you won’t want to miss:
In addition to excellent cocktails and live music, Stranded Bar offers shareable plates like their Large Rigatoni stuffed with Buffalo Ricotta, Mozzarella & Lemon Zest, served with a bright Tomato Chutney. Pair this crunchy, cheesy pasta with one of their craft cocktails for good times.
Charcuterie at Before + After
Photo credit: Before + After/Instagram
As Brisbane’s first amaro bar, Before + After unsurprisingly excels at Italian-inspired bar bites. A standout is their charcuterie plate, featuring cured meats like black truffle salami and venison mortadella, accompanied by pickles, relishes, olive oil, and toast for dipping. Sip on an amaro cocktail whilst enjoying these artisanal meats and condiments.
Chicken Tikka at Bloodhound Corner Bar and Kitchen
Photo credit: Bloodhound Corner/UberEats
With a massive selection of beers and spirits, Bloodhound Corner Bar pairs well with bar snacks like their char-grilled Chicken Tikka. The tender chicken breast is marinated in yogurt and spices, served with a cooling yoghurt and mint sauce.
Oysters at Exhibition Restaurant
Photo credit: Exhibition Restaurant/Instagram
Attached to chef Tim Scott’s omakase restaurant is Exhibition’s walk-in wine bar, with creative bar snacks like their caviar waffles. Besides caviar, one of the highlights of their specially curated bar menu is the freshly shucked oysters, best paired with a glass of wine. Their freshly shucked Cool Water Pacific oysters are dressed in a vibrant mango and fig leaf dressing, accented with local yuzu and fingerlime.
Ma Hor Pork Relish at LOS
Photo credit: Los_landofsmiles/Instagram
For Thai flavours, try LOS’ Ma Hor, a pork relish with pineapple, chilli, and peanut. Served alongside a margarita, it’s a perfect combination of savoury, spicy, and sweet. LOS, meaning Land of Smiles, offers many satisfying Thai small plates alongside their cocktail menu.
From amaro to omakase, Fortitude Valley’s bars offer nibbles as diverse and crave-worthy as their drinks. Try these inventive bar snacks on your next night out in the Valley.
In a vibrant corner of Fortitude Valley, there’s a special place that goes beyond your regular retail shop. The Aesop store on James Street is one-of-a-kind, blending art, innovation, and nature that shoppers will not want to miss.
The decor and layout of the store is truly amazing, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Aesop James Street tapped March Studio, a famous design team, to work on the place and they used a special material called fibreglass that’s known for its translucency and versatility.
This store marks a significant milestone as the 17th completed project for the acclaimed design firm.
Photo Credit: March Studio for Aesop in Fortitude Valley
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the choice of fibreglass pays homage to Queensland’s outdoor lifestyle, where activities like kayaking and surfing are part of the cultural fabric. As a result, the store radiates an ethereal, light-filled ambiance that beckons passersby, inviting them to step inside and explore. When you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re in a dreamy, light-filled space.
Photo Credit: March Studio for Aesop in Fortitude Valley
The design team had to work with fibreglass sheets that could only bend in one direction. But this limitation turned into something cool. The store’s shape is like the horn of a phonograph, and the sound inside travels out to James Street, making it sound unique.
Photo Credit: March Studio for Aesop in Fortitude Valley
The team also thought of the store as a separate structure that fits inside. This way, it could have a special area for trying out products and divide the floor into two back areas and an enticing window display.
Photo Credit: March Studio for Aesop in Fortitude Valley
The inspiration for this design came from the imagery of upturned fibreglass swimming pools, which not only influenced the fluid form of the structure but also the choice of material: fibreglass itself.
Aesop James Street in Fortitude Valley is more than a place to shop; it’s a showcase of innovative design, creative problem-solving, and the power of architecture to transform spaces. It shows how form and function can come together, making it an architectural wonder that will captivate visitors for years to come.
A unique agricultural venture is thriving in the bustling urban landscape of Fortitude Valley with Urban Valley, a mushroom farm founded by Joel Schiller and Rachel Hughes.
This innovative farm has carved out a niche in the gourmet mushroom market, a segment that saw a significant demand, especially noted during the challenging times of the pandemic.
Inception and Growth: Filling a Gap in the Market
The idea for Urban Valley germinated when the founders identified a gap in the supply of gourmet mushrooms.
Mr Schiller’s interest in mushrooms began during his tenure at Danielle Gjestland’s Wasabi restaurant in Noosa. The concept further developed when Ms Hughes, working at Suncoast Fresh, noticed a persistent shortage of gourmet mushrooms.
This shortage became particularly pronounced during the pandemic, underscoring the need for a local, reliable source.
This thought laid the foundation for what would become Urban Valley. The farm began its journey in an old taxi depot and later moved to its current location in a warehouse in Fortitude Valley.
The Farming Process: Innovation and Sustainability
Urban Valley epitomises sustainable urban agriculture. Their mushrooms are grown indoors in a controlled environment, starting from the incubation stage in bags filled with a substrate of wood and soy hull. The farm’s fruiting room is the centrepiece of this operation, where mushrooms grow in conditions meticulously controlled for temperature and humidity.
The process accelerates in the fruiting room, the mushrooms – otherworldly monster blues, fluffy coral tooths, button-like chestnuts – roughly doubling in size every 24 hours.
This efficient and sustainable approach to farming aligns well with the urban setting of Fortitude Valley.
Urban Valley’s mushrooms have found their way into the kitchens of renowned Brisbane restaurants such as Stanley, SK Steak & Oyster, Bacchus, Restaurant Dan Arnold, and Goma Restaurant. Their presence in these prestigious establishments underscores the farm’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Beyond production, Urban Valley engages with the community through tours and events. Mr Schiller and Ms Hughes have hosted intimate long-table dinners in collaboration with partner restaurants, showcasing urban farming’s potential. These events not only highlight the farm’s produce but also demonstrate the versatility of urban spaces for agricultural purposes.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Urban Valley
As Urban Valley continues to grow, its impact on the local food scene and the concept of urban farming becomes increasingly significant. The farm represents a shift towards more sustainable, localised food production methods, fitting perfectly into the diverse and dynamic backdrop of Fortitude Valley.
Morrissey, one of Britain’s most influential figures in pop music, is set to grace the stage in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. This anticipated return marks a significant moment in the artist’s history with the city, reflecting a renewed connection and an opportunity for Brisbane fans to celebrate his illustrious career.
Morrissey’s Brisbane concert is a highlight of his “40 Years of Morrissey” tour. This special event is scheduled for 8 Dec 2023, at The Fortitude Music Hall, located in the vibrant heart of Fortitude Valley.
The evening promises an unforgettable experience, starting at a time that will allow fans to immerse themselves fully in the musical journey Morrissey has curated.
Acclaimed for his role as the lead singer of The Smiths, Morrisey has had a nuanced relationship with Brisbane. Despite past challenges, including instances where he felt unwelcomed due to heckling during performances, Morrissey’s upcoming tour brings a positive new chapter. His return symbolises a bridge mended, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his fans across Australia.
Photo Credit: Morrisey/Facebook
As Morrissey himself stated, “I suppose there are people who think of Australia only in terms of Sydney and Melbourne, but I’m not one of them.”
This sentiment underscores his appreciation for the diverse fan base in Australia, including those in Brisbane.
The “40 Years of Morrissey” tour is a homage to his impactful presence in the music industry. This tour will feature a mix of beloved songs from both his time with The Smiths and his solo albums.
The Tivoli is set to experience a blast from the past as the UK’s premier tribute band, “The Doors Alive,” brings the iconic sounds of the 1960s rock legends, The Doors, to life.
Known for their uncanny resemblance in sound and style to the original band, The Doors Alive has been capturing the essence of the psychedelic era with their electrifying performances.
Scheduled for 30 November 2023, this much-anticipated event promises to transport audiences back to the golden age of rock. Doors to the Fortitude Valley venue will open at 7:30 p.m. for a night of nostalgia, featuring a range of general admission options, from standing to seated arrangements in the mezzanine. Fans are eager to secure their spots, with ticket prices starting from $70.
Formed in 2005, The Doors Alive has undergone several changes in its lineup, but the current ensemble is touted as their best yet. The band has over 1,000 shows under their belt, showcasing their ability to perfectly recreate the sound, look, and atmosphere of a genuine 1960s Doors concert. Classic hits like “Light My Fire,” “Riders On The Storm,” and “The End” are all part of their impressive repertoire.
Their frontman, Mike, is celebrated for embodying Jim Morrison’s rich baritone voice and charismatic stage presence. The rest of the band, too, mirrors the musical prowess of the original Doors members. Their global tours have taken them to over 15 countries, sharing stages with legendary artists and playing at renowned festivals, including the Isle of Wight Festival.
What sets The Doors Alive apart is their dedication to authenticity. They use the same vintage instruments as the original Doors, creating a sound that not only resonates with die-hard fans but also introduces new generations to the legendary music of The Doors.
For fans in Fortitude Valley and beyond, this concert is more than just a performance; it’s an experience, a chance to relive the magic of The Doors. It’s an invitation to step into a musical time capsule and celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the most influential bands of the 20th century.
Belinda Carlisle fans looking forward to an early Christmas musical treat with their favourite artist would have to wait a few months more, as a severe injury has led the ’80s pop icon to postpone her Tivoli plans to next year.
The event, initially set for 1 Dec 2023, will now take place on 5 Oct 2024, at the same venue, The Tivoli. This change might come as a disappointment to some fans but also extends an opportunity for more enthusiasts to plan their attendance.
“A couple of weeks ago I was diagnosed with a severe injury to my left knee, which was then made even worse by an infection,” Ms Carlisle announced.
“I’ve tried all sorts of therapies to give me a short term fix, but nothing has worked and now I have to have surgery to clean it out.
“It’s severely incapacitating, the pain makes it very hard to walk or even just stand for any extended period of time and my orthopaedic doctor has advised me I run the risk of doing long term damage if I don’t take care of it properly.”
Ticket Sales and Refund Information
Tickets bought for the original date will remain valid for the rescheduled concert. This ensures that early bird fans can still secure their spot without any additional hassle.
However, for those who find the new date inconvenient, the event organizers have provided options for a full refund. Ticket holders are advised to contact their point of purchase for detailed instructions on the refund process.
Belinda Carlisle’s Special Connection with Australia
Ms Carlisle’s relationship with Australia, dating back to her early visits in the ’80s, is marked by a special bond. She has expressed a deep affection for Australia’s ambience, reminiscent of “old California,” and a strong connection with her Australian fans.
She has shared memories of visiting Australia in 1982 and being a host on “Countdown,” as well as her experiences with the Australian music scene. Particularly notable is the local enthusiasm for her 1990 single “Summer Rain,” a chart success that is uniquely celebrated in Australia with a choreographed dance, something she has observed nowhere else.
Reflecting on her career, Carlisle appreciates the enduring popularity of her music. Her journey from The Go-Go’s to a successful solo career and exploration of various musical genres, including French chansons and Sikh chants, has cemented her legacy in the music industry.
Looking Forward
The Tivoli, with its rich history and intimate setting, provides the perfect backdrop for Carlisle’s performance. Known for hosting a variety of artists and events, The Tivoli is a cornerstone of Brisbane’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
As Fortitude Valley prepares to welcome Belinda Carlisle, fans can look forward to a night of nostalgic melodies and new memories. The rescheduled concert promises to be an event that encapsulates the essence of her musical legacy and the enduring charm of The Tivoli.
Get ready to hop between eight rockin’ venues across Fortitude Valley for a beloved music and beer festival that offers nonstop fun for free – the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl returns for its eighth epic year on Saturday, 10 February 2024.
This hugely popular event takes over venues like Black Bear Lodge and The Brightside, treating attendees to performances from 40 of Brisbane’s best bands as well as some of Australia’s tastiest brews, from sunset to sundown on one wild summer night.
Headlining the 2024 lineup are indie rockers These New South Whales, neo-soul songstress Mia Wray, and alt-pop group Peach Fur. Supporting acts run the gamut from roots and blues bands like Chutney to punk rockers Flamingo Blonde to electronic duo Friends of Friends.
Photo credit: Mountain Goat Valley Crawl – Red Stockholm/Facebook
Whether your taste runs to hip hop, psychedelic rock, folk, or anything in between, the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl has something to offer.
The festivities kick off at 5:00 p.m. across eight venues:
Black Bear Lodge
The Brightside
The Brightside Outdoors
Greaser
Stranded
The Zoo
Suzie Wong’s Good Time Bar
Valley Loft
Attendees can roam between locations and sets all evening long. Pro tips: arrive early, pace yourself between venues, and stay hydrated – this crawl can get wild!
Though a ticket isn’t required, registration is recommended to guarantee entry.
With eight venues participating in the crawl this year, there will be more bands, more beers, and more good times than ever before. Whether your favorite haunt is Suzie Wong’s dancefloor or the craft beer garden at Greaser, you can be sure every venue hosting the festival will be going all out with extended drink offerings, music-fueled vibes, and plenty of food options to soak it all up.
Mark those calendars – February 10 is going to be a party. The Mountain Goat Valley Crawl brings together killer music, tasty brews, and good times galore!
From holiday shopping nights to DJ sets to five-course feasts, Fortitude Valley’s James Street has something for everyone. Get out your calendar and save the date for three buzzworthy events coming up this November and December.
Forget the usual Christmas gift socks and join Living Edge on James Street on Thursday, November 23 to fill up your holiday stocking with stylish homewares. Their VIP Shopping Night from 4:00 –8:00 p.m. will feature festive sips, special offers, and surprises on hot items like the Nuage vase, Eames elephant decor, and FLOS Bellhop lamp. As Living Edge says, everyone’s a VIP in their book so no RSVP is needed to enjoy the fun.
LEV X LOS
Photo credit: jamesst.com.au
LEV X LOS equals a mighty fine time when two top DJ talents team up on Saturday, November 25. Levi Birks, who spun tracks at previous James Street events like Up Late and the Food & Wine Trail, joins forces with Dan Mumbles, formerly of Gerard’s Bar, for a night of sips and sounds at LOS from 6:30–11:30 p.m. Bring your friends and dancing shoes — no RSVP needed!
Friday Feasts
Photo credit: jamesst.com.au
The Green will bring back their popular Dark Green Dinner Series just in time for summer with new globally-inspired tasting menus each Friday starting December 1. Head Chef Dan Anderson’s opening five-course Lebanese-themed menu on December 1 boasts babaganoush, mechoui spiced lamb shoulder, and more. Feast your eyes on the full menu and book your tickets for what will surely be a delicious summer ahead.
Whether you’re looking to cross some names off your gift list, dance the night away, or tantalise your taste buds, James Street has something for all interests and tastes as Brisbane swings into the summer spirit. So be sure to calendar or bookmark these three buzzed-about events and keep an eye out for more celebrations headed to the James Street neighbourhood.
Nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Maryon’s shoe store stands as a testament to timeless elegance and enduring quality. Founded in 1973, this esteemed establishment has woven itself into the fabric of Queensland’s fashion history. Its journey, spanning five decades, encapsulates a story of passion, evolution, and commitment to luxury.
Maryon’s began as a bold venture by a 22-year-old entrepreneur in the Gold Coast, spurred by the challenge of finding elegant shoes in her size. Initially perceived as extravagant for its exclusive range and premium pricing, the store rapidly rose to prominence, expanding its footprint to various locations.
Maryon’s distinguishes itself with a focus on individual style and comfort. The philosophy is simple yet profound: select shoes that resonate with your personal aesthetic, ensure comfort, and embrace versatility in color and design.
The Ogilvie Era: Reinvigorating a Fashion Icon
The pivotal moment in Maryon’s storied history was its acquisition by The Ogilvie Group in 2018. This move heralded a new era, rejuvenating the brand with contemporary flair and exclusive collections.
Photo Credit: Maryon’s Google Maps
The store, situated on James Street, epitomises more than a retail space; it’s an embodiment of artistic design and exceptional service. The curated selection of high-end brands, from Clergerie to Chloé, caters to a clientele that seeks unparalleled quality and style.
Today, Maryon’s is a byword for luxury footwear in Brisbane, offering everything from sleek stilettos to chic platforms, each piece reflecting meticulous craftsmanship and an eye for trendsetting design. The store advocates for a balanced approach to footwear, emphasizing the importance of quality in daily wear as much as in occasion-specific shoes.
The artistry behind Maryon’s collections is partly attributed to its global sourcing strategy. The team embarks on regular buying trips to fashion capitals like Milan, Paris, and New York, curating an eclectic mix that captures the essence of international style trends while maintaining a local relevance.
As Maryon’s navigates its future, the emphasis is on expanding its brand repertoire and enhancing the customer experience. The leadership’s approach balances business aspirations with lifestyle choices, reflecting a belief in personal well-being and professional success. This philosophy extends to their customer service, where personal attention and a deep understanding of client preferences set Maryon’s apart.
Community Engagement and Celebratory Events
Maryon’s not only excels in fashion but also in fostering community connections. Celebrating its golden anniversary, the store has hosted exclusive events, collaborated with international labels, and engaged in giveaways to thank its loyal customers.
In a rapidly changing retail landscape, Maryon’s remains adaptable, embracing online platforms and social media to reach a wider audience. These efforts ensure that Maryon’s legacy endures, not just as a store, but as a purveyor of fine taste and a contributor to the vibrant tapestry of Fortitude Valley’s fashion scene.
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