At the annual Eat Drink Design Awards, a Fortitude Valley restaurant has secured the prestigious title of Australia’s most beautiful dining space. Gerard’s, located on the trendy James Street precinct in Fortitude Valley, emerged victorious alongside designer J.AR Office in the Best Restaurant Design category.
After 11 years in operation, Gerard’s has undergone a comprehensive renovation and boasts a remarkable interior. Rammed earth walls, strategically placed lighting, beeswaxed oak panelling, and a sleek steel finish create a timeless and historical ambience.
The design has garnered praise for its “otherworldly” atmosphere. The Eat Drink Design Awards jury commended Gerard’s for its “exceptional originality and innovative approach.” They elaborated that the design fosters a holistic dining experience, where the environment complements the food and wine offerings. This reflects a deep understanding of space utilisation and a commitment to providing diners a unique and memorable experience.
Stepping into Gerard’s feels like entering a futuristic film set. The design draws inspiration from the ancient Phoenician Temple of Baalbek, mirroring the rich tapestry of flavours found in Lebanese cuisine, a cornerstone of Gerard’s menu.
Restaurant owner Johnny Moubarak believes the space and the food are in perfect harmony. He explained that Gerard’s menu features bold and evocative flavours that create lasting memories and sensory connections. He said the design needed to reflect this essence.
Warm textures and organic shapes complement this atmosphere, ensuring every element resonates with the dishes. Moubarak emphasises that the dining experience extends beyond the plate itself. It encompasses the ambience, lighting, tableware, cutlery, and even the sounds from the kitchen.
Moubarak stated that every material, visual element, scent, and touch contributes to an immersive experience transcending mere taste, creating an unforgettable and all-encompassing dining journey.
This project marks the first completed hospitality venue design for J.AR Office. Designer Jared Webb expressed his gratification at the design’s positive reception beyond Brisbane.
Webb explained that the design concept compared Gerard’s enduring legacy and iconic status to the weathered yet persistent Temple of Baalbek. The reimagined Gerard’s embodies this very concept.
The design and its underlying theme evolved from respecting tradition, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship. Ultimately, the aim was to create a monument that serves as a testament to the next chapter of the Moubarak family’s culinary legacy
The restaurant is open for dinner from Monday to Saturday, with lunch offered on Fridays and Saturdays.
Published Date 11-November-2024