James Street Archives - Fortitude Valley News

A Final Crumb: Agnes Bakery’s Last Weekend Before Rebirth as ‘Idle’

After more than three years of enchanting Brisbane’s pastry lovers with flaky croissants, golden kouign-amann, and pillowy loaves of sourdough, Agnes Bakery is closing the doors of its James Street location for the final time this Sunday, June 15.

Read: Agnes Bakery in Fortitude Valley is Brisbane’s New Favourite

But don’t despair—this isn’t goodbye, just a delicious evolution. Rising from the ashes (or rather, flour) is Idle, a new concept from the Anyday Group set to open soon in New Farm.

In fact, Agnes Bakery wasn’t part of the original plan. In early 2020, the team behind Agnes was preparing to launch a fine dining restaurant with a wine bar and bottle shop. But when COVID-19 lockdowns hit just days before opening, executive chef Ben Williamson and his team were forced to pivot. The solution? Transform the yet-to-open space into a bakery—a move that was meant to be temporary but quickly became one of Brisbane’s most beloved culinary surprises.

With limited hours and no dine-in allowed, the Agnes team began selling their creations through the front door, and Brisbane lined up for the privilege. Locals couldn’t get enough of the bakery’s signature croissants—flaky on the outside, buttery-soft inside, and utterly addictive.

The kouign-amann, a caramelised Breton pastry, also became a cult favourite. Customers were equally devoted to their potato and rosemary danish with creamy cheese, their deeply flavoursome sourdough, and the perfectly scorched Basque cheesecake.

More than just a stop for baked goods, Agnes Bakery became a pandemic-era comfort—a little piece of warmth and joy in uncertain times. It grew into a cornerstone of the inner-city food scene, drawing pastry pilgrims from across Brisbane and beyond.

Now, as the team prepares to close this chapter, they’re giving fans one last chance to savour their favourites. On Saturday and Sunday (June 14-15), the first 100 customers to make a purchase will receive a free mini almond croissant—a final thank you from a bakery that’s baked its way into Brisbane’s heart.

Read: Supernormal Brisbane Named One of the Best New Restaurants for 2025

And while Agnes Bakery will be missed, its spirit lives on in Idle, a fresh venture promising to blend the best of a bakery, market, and neighbourhood kitchen under one roof. If history is anything to go by, Idle will be more than a worthy successor—it might just be your new favourite.

Published 11-June-2025

Calile Hotel Named Best in Oceania, Ranks 25th Globally

Photo Credit: The Calile Hotel

The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley has been crowned the Best Hotel in Oceania and secured the 25th spot in The World’s 50 Best Hotels for 2024. This prestigious recognition puts Brisbane on the global luxury travel map, outshining traditional hospitality powerhouses Sydney and Melbourne.

The $100 million Calile Hotel, which opened its doors in October 2018, has quickly become a magnet for socialites and celebrities.

Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley’s James Street, the hotel is a cornerstone of the area’s transformation into a ‘lifestyle resort’ destination, a vision realised by the local Malouf family.

With room rates starting at $379 per night, The Calile offers nine room types, ranging from essential hideaways to luxurious poolside and high-end suite options.

The hotel’s success is not just in its accommodations but also in its dining offerings. The Lobby Bar serves as a popular spot for lunch and dinner, while nearby restaurants on Ada Lane, including Same Same and Bianca, have become local favourites.

The Calile’s achievement is part of a broader Australian success in the awards, with The Tasman in Hobart also making the list at 49th place.

Published 19-September-2024

Cru Bar Reimagined: A James Street Staple’s New Chapter

For over two decades, Cru Bar and Cellar has been a cornerstone of Brisbane’s vibrant James Street precinct in Fortitude Valley.

Read: Pawn & Co in Fortitude Valley: A Unique Blend of Bar, Pawn Shop, and Perfumery Opens its Doors

Established in 2003, this beloved institution has recently undergone a significant transformation, breathing new life into its storied space while maintaining the essence that has made it a local favourite for 20 years.

A Fresh Face for a Familiar Friend

After months of hiatus, Cru Bar and Cellar has reopened its doors, unveiling a stunning renovation that marries modern elegance with its classic charm. The extensive refurbishment has dramatically opened up the venue, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere.

One of the most striking additions is the expanded window-ledge dining along Fortitude Street, offering patrons a prime spot to people-watch while enjoying Cru’s renowned offerings. The remodelled kitchen and bar island now boasts an impressive mirrored bulkhead that takes full advantage of the double-height ceilings, creating a sense of grandeur and openness.

Every aspect of the renovation has been carefully considered. Soft concave timber panelling adorns the bar front, complemented by champagne-coloured onyx stone countertops and tasteful brass accents. These elements combine to create an atmosphere of understated luxury that perfectly aligns with Cru’s reputation for quality and sophistication.

At the heart of the bar, the iconic 18th century Baccarat chandelier – a fixture since Cru’s inception – has been lovingly restored and reinstated as the centrepiece. This blend of old and new perfectly encapsulates Cru’s approach: honouring its heritage while embracing the future.

Elevating the Culinary Experience

The renovation wasn’t just about aesthetics. Cru’s kitchen has received a significant upgrade, including new state-of-the-art equipment and a dedicated oyster-shucking station with temperature-controlled drawers. These enhancements allow the culinary team to expand their offerings and introduce a new set-menu option, elevating the dining experience to new heights.

Retail manager Chris Walker has been hard at work curating an exceptional wine list that reflects Cru’s renewed dedication to quality and passion. The venue now features an elegant tasting room and a impressive magnum wine wall fridge, providing the perfect backdrop for wine enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

Despite the renovations, Cru Bar & Cellar remains true to its roots. The menu continues to champion Queensland farmers and produce suppliers, showcasing the best of the state’s bounty. While the culinary offerings maintain their European-inspired wine bar format, the kitchen’s new capabilities allow for exciting innovations, including the introduction of a chef’s menu – a feature that wasn’t possible when Cru was first built 20 years ago.

As Cru Bar and Cellar begins the meticulous process of moving its precious wine collection back into the cellar, there’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air. The soul of this James Street icon is more vibrant than ever, ready to offer both loyal patrons and newcomers an exceptional wine journey in its beautifully refreshed setting.

Read: Justin Lane Breathes New Life into Iconic Valley Corner

With its thoughtful renovation, expanded culinary capabilities, and unwavering commitment to quality, Cru Bar and Cellar is poised to remain a beloved fixture of Brisbane’s dining and wine scene for decades to come. As it embarks on this new chapter, one thing is clear: the best is yet to come for this James Street gem.

Published 19-September-2024

Fortitude Valley’s Most Sought-After Restaurants in 2024

As Brisbane embraces a post-pandemic reality in 2024, the city’s dining scene is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. With restrictions eased, residents and visitors alike are enthusiastically returning to restaurants, eager to indulge in shared culinary experiences.

Read: 10 Things You Should Know About the Soon-to-Open Queen’s Wharf Development

In Fortitude Valley, a few establishments have emerged as the go-to destinations for this renewed appetite for dining out. These restaurants, a mix of new ventures and beloved staples, have captured the public’s imagination and taste buds, becoming the most sought-after tables in town. Here’s a closer look at the restaurants that are currently dominating Fortitude Valley’s vibrant food scene:

Yoko Dining

Yoko Dining, located on Boundary Street in Brisbane City, brings the vibrant atmosphere of Tokyo’s music bars to the riverside Howard Smith Wharves. This split-level izakaya offers a unique blend of Japanese cuisine and pop culture, creating an energetic dining experience. With its vinyl-charged ambiance, Yoko Dining promises a fun and immersive journey into contemporary Japanese dining culture.

Petite

Petite, the latest addition to Cameron and Jordan Votan’s restaurant portfolio, has established itself at the intersection of East and Ann in Fortitude Valley. This intimate 80-seat eatery blends French bistro aesthetics with contemporary industrial design, featuring vintage lighting and classic seating alongside modern accents. The menu, crafted by Chef Aubrey Courtel, presents a thoughtfully selected array of dishes, each complemented by a specially chosen wine, delivering a sophisticated yet accessible dining experience.

Emme

restaurants — Photo credit: Emme James Street/Google Maps

Emme, which made its debut in late April, marks head chef Tze Lian’s first venture as a co-proprietor. This cosy 40-seat establishment offers a menu that draws inspiration from co-owner Sultan Amesheh’s Middle Eastern roots, artfully combined with Tze Lian’s and sous chef Fin Burgess’ proficiency in Mediterranean and wood-fired cooking techniques. Emme presents a distinctive culinary adventure that melds Middle Eastern flavours with modern Australian cuisine.

Fatcow

Fatcow, located in the former David Jones boutique store’s ground level, is the newest creation from esteemed hospitality veteran Michael Tassis. With its sultry, opulent ambiance, Fatcow delivers a refined dining experience centred on Chef Garry Newton’s expertly grilled steaks and an array of seafood delicacies. The venue’s wine selection, boasting over 300 varieties, caters to both wine aficionados and steak lovers.

Essa Restaurant and Wine Bar

Essa, situated on Robertson Street, introduces an elevated, tailor-made dining concept near the James St precinct. The menu explores innovative yet accessible flavour combinations through an array of raw, fermented, smoked, and fire-cooked dishes, with highlights such as quail and pork chop showcasing intense, distinctive flavours.

Read: Pod Hotel Surge in Brisbane: Fortitude Valley and CBD Welcome Innovative Budget Accommodation

As these restaurants continue to gain popularity, they not only enrich the local culinary landscape but also solidify Fortitude Valley’s reputation as a premier dining destination in Brisbane. With their focus on quality ingredients, creative menus, and distinctive atmospheres, these new establishments are setting the stage for an exciting future in Brisbane’s gastronomic journey.

Published 22-July-2024

James Street Food and Wine Trail Returns to Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Must Do Brisbane/ Facebook

Get ready for a mouthwatering experience as the James Street Food and Wine Trail makes its highly anticipated return to Fortitude Valley.

*Photo Credit:* *James Street/ Facebook*

From Saturday, 27 July, to Sunday, 28 July, 2024, this culinary extravaganza is sure to delight food and wine enthusiasts. Brisbane’s lively precinct is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, becoming a hub of culinary delights that showcase the very best of local cuisine and beverages.

Year after year, the event captivates Fortitude Valley, attracting a multitude of people with its distinctive combination of culinary delights and captivating performances. On a designated day, the stretch of road from Arthur Street to McLachlan Street will be transformed into a vibrant outdoor dining area, temporarily closed off to traffic. The upcoming event is set to be more dynamic and engaging, despite being shorter than previous years.

The upcoming Market Day in 2024 will boast an impressive 39 stalls, surpassing all previous records in its 12-year history. This unprecedented number of stalls will serve as a testament to the vibrant and varied culinary landscape that Brisbane has to offer.

With an expected turnout of over 25,000 people, Market Day is set to become one of the most significant gatherings in recent history. The 7500-square-metre space will be filled as attendees flock to the event.

Hellenika is a star attraction for those with a penchant for Greek cuisine. Food enthusiasts will be drawn to the irresistible dishes at sAme sAme, while ESSA’s venue creates a unique atmosphere. The lively ambience at Cru Bar and the indulgent treats from Gelato Messina is sure to please a wide range of tastes. The event aims to showcase the reasons why James Street has become a popular spot for food enthusiasts in Brisbane.

The weekend will begin with a lavish four-course champagne lunch at ESSA, followed by lively celebrations at the newly renovated Cru Bar, and a delectable Middle Eastern-inspired dinner at ēmmē. The Calile’s Lobby Bar is set to host an aperitivo hour, further enhancing the weekend’s appeal. This weekend, Jocelyn’s Provisions will be showcasing a selection of delectable sweet treats, while Gelato Messina will tantalise taste buds with their exclusive, limited-edition desserts.

Market Day: The Main Attraction

Spanning an impressive 300 metres, this vibrant event will turn the street into a captivating alfresco dining area. Attendees can look forward to not only indulging in delicious food but also enjoying live music and captivating performances. At this upcoming event, attendees will have the chance to discover some exciting new additions to the local scene.

Among them are ēmmē, Agnes Bakery, James & Antler, and Sushi Room. Notably, Sushi Room will be showcasing their skills with a live tuna carving demonstration. Attendees are advised to come with an empty stomach and a strong appetite, as they will be treated to a wide variety of mouthwatering culinary delights.

Fortitude Valley is set to transform into a vibrant epicentre of culinary excellence with the unveiling of the James Street Food and Wine Trail. Attendees can expect an extraordinary affair this year, as Brisbane’s finest culinary delights merge seamlessly with the vibrant energy of the city. No matter if you’re a resident or a tourist, this is a weekend that should not be overlooked.

Published Date 01-July-2024

New French Restaurant Petite Opens in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Instagram / @petitebris

The Happy Boy team has expanded their East Street culinary empire with the opening of Petite, a French restaurant that promises to bring a touch of Gallic flair to Fortitude Valley.

Located on the corner of East Street and Ann Street, Petite is the latest venture from brothers Cameron and Jordan Votan. The restaurant occupies a prime spot, offering diners views of the bustling Ann Street and the start of James Street through its open-glass windows.

The spacious venue can accommodate approximately 115 guests, with 75 seats on the ground floor and an additional 40 on the mezzanine level, which is available for private functions.

Jordan Votan’s minimalist design features steel and concrete, balanced by leather booths, walnut furniture, and statement chandeliers imported from Como, Italy. The centrepiece is a low-set open kitchen, led by former Mini chef Aubrey Courtel.

Cameron Votan emphasized the kitchen’s design, noting, “We spent a lot of time designing the kitchen. The extraction system, which is like a ventilated ceiling, is a really high-tech piece of equipment. And everything in the kitchen is electric. We’re not trying to char everything, it’s about accuracy and delicacy.”

The menu, though concise, offers a range of French classics. Diners can expect dishes such as steak tartare, onion tarte tartin, and Wagyu bavette with café de Paris butter. A standout feature is the commitment to soufflés, with both savory and sweet options available to bookend meals.

“We’ve actually built the kitchen around that,” Cameron explained. “You can’t open an oven while a soufflé is cooking, so there’s a whole soufflé section. We put in two separate ovens for that purpose, because soufflés are such an amazing part of French cuisine.”

The wine list is equally impressive, featuring 20 French wines available by the glass. The use of Coravin technology allows patrons to sample rare wines from cult French producers without committing to a full bottle. For those with specific preferences, staff can also retrieve bottles from the adjacent Snack Man’s extensive wine wall.

Petite Fortitude Valley is open Tuesday to Thursday from 5:30 PM to 10 PM, Friday from midday to 10 PM, and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 10 PM. The restaurant does not accept phone reservations, but more information can be found on their website or Instagram page.

book your reservations here!

Published 14-June-2024

Fatcow on James St: Steak and Seafood Restaurant Makes a Comeback

Heads up! Fatcow is making a comeback, this time in Fortitude Valley, reopening as Fatcow on James St.

Read: Meet ēmmē: The Soon-To-Be Culinary and Artistic Delight in James Street

This new iteration of Fatcow Steak & Lobster, formerly located at Eagle Street Pier, will bring diners over to a swanky new spot in the Valley, where a fresh take on steakhouse dining awaits.

Fatcow on James St is the brainchild of restaurateur Michael Tassis. With a portfolio that includes establishments like Rich & Rare and Yamas Greek + Drink, Tassis aims to shake up the Valley dining scene with this revival.

At the heart of Fatcow’s comeback lies a meticulously crafted menu that pays homage to the finest cuts of meat and the freshest seafood. Guests can expect an array of carefully curated options, including the much-anticipated, truly decadent, gold-wrapped 400-gram, rib fillet steak-and-lobster combo.

Fatcow’s famous golden steak (Photo credit: Fatcow on James St/Facebook)

But the offerings don’t stop there. From wagyu tasting boards featuring three distinct varieties to an indulgent selection of mains ranging from wagyu burgers to lamb shoulder, Fatcow’s menu leaves no culinary stone unturned when it comes to staging this comeback to the Brisbane dining scene.

Fresh seafood takes centre stage, with Brisbane’s only live oyster tank ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality.

For those with a sweet tooth, Fatcow’s dessert menu includes scrumptious chocolate tarts, lime sorbet, and basque cheesecake. An extensive wine list with over 300 labels provides curated pairings that complement every dish on offer.

With Caio Rosetto, the mastermind behind the original eatery, back at the helm, expectations run high on the restaurant delivering exemplary service and attention to detail.

Read: How Brooki Bakehouse Fortitude Valley Became an Insta-Sensation and Earned an International Following

Fatcow on James St opens at 10 James Street, Fortitude Valley, on Wednesday, May 8, welcoming guests daily from 11:30 a.m. until late. Visit their website for more details.

Published 7-May-2024

Meet ēmmē: The Soon-To-Be Culinary and Artistic Delight in James Street

Photo Credit: Instagram.com/emme.jamesst

Branded as a day-to-night dinner, ēmmē, found in the ever-elegant and food-centered James Street is set to offer its innovative culinary haven infused with fashion and arts in the early April of 2024.

Unlike other competitors in the high-end streets in Fortitude Valley, the bright orange establishment, replacing Spoon Deli, naturally captures the attention of locals in the area.

Alkot Studio and Tonic Projects are the well-respected design and construction companies behind the establishment of ēmmē. Covered with Italian stone, the establishment will have a total of 44 indoors seating spaces with an additional of 38 seats in the al fresco area.

The restaurant’s aesthetics perfectly complement its main concept of showcasing unique fashion, arts and food of the locals. Some of the fashion brands that ēmmē has already collaborated with are Milu and Calexico. They are also planning to host art and fashion shows in the future.

At ēmmē’s, fashion and arts are not the only things to express artistry and creativity with. The kitchen is also a great way to do it.

The Middle Eastern-Mediterranean inspired menu is the passion project of the kitchen’s head chef, Thomas Tze Lian, who has been cooking Mediterranean food almost all his career.

However, Mr Lian doesn’t want to limit the place’s offering solely on these, the said cuisine can also go beyond a bit of Jordanian, Persian, Tunisian and Asian depending on the season.

For drinks, a 50-bottle list is what ēmmē’s has to offer. Mr Lian is guided by Cutting Wine’s Marin Mamata in curating for his menu.

He also revealed his spontaneity, because unlike normal restaurants, his dishes will not go by a name.

One thing is for sure, ēmmē’s seasonal menus, mostly cooked through wood-fire, will be made through locally produced ingredients, from Middle Eastern-Mediterranean inspired breakfast, Wagyu dishes and mouth-watering seafood choices for dinner.

Locals can experience ēmmē’s when they open or visit ēmmē’s official Instagram page for updates.

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A post shared by ēmmē (@emme.jamesst)

Published 15-April-2024

Gerard’s Reopens on James Street with New Look and Menu

After months of eager anticipation, Gerard’s has finally reopened. Dropping “Bistro” from its name, Gerard’s is ushering in a new era while still honouring its legacy as one of the dining institutions along James Street.

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

After closing for renovations from June to November 2023, the newly refreshed Gerard’s offers some exciting changes while still remaining the beloved neighbourhood gem loyal patrons have cherished for years.

Although diners can still expect the intimate ambiance and gracious service they are recognised for, the dining room has been stunningly transformed to transport guests to the exotic lands of the Mediterranean.

The dining room walls pay homage to ancient ruins of the Levant, Ottoman Empire, and Roman civilisations, bathed in deep red hues reminiscent of the rich, terra cotta soils found in that region.

Chef Jimmy Richardson (Photo credit: Gerard’s/Facebook)

Leading the kitchen is new Executive Chef Jimmy Richardson, whose impressive resume includes senior roles at acclaimed restaurants like Shangri-La Sydney’s Altitude, The Bridge Room, Café Paci, and Sydney’s Park Hyatt.

Standout new menu items include The Barbari bread, adorned with reduced whey and oregano, accompanied by smoked labneh. The Bateman’s Bay rock oysters, kissed by erk soos vinegar, provide a refreshing delight. Carnivores will rejoice at the Lebanese cured pork belly, a masterpiece of complex spices and melt-in-your-mouth richness.

Gerard’s has always been known for their curated selection of local wines, but they have now expanded their offerings to include international varietals as well, with an emphasis on Mediterranean styles that pair beautifully with Chef Richardson’s dishes.

Read: Award-Winning Chef Martin Boetz Presents Short Grain Restaurant in Fortitude Valley

It’s not so much the start of an entirely new era, but perhaps the opening of an exciting new chapter for this beloved neighbourhood gem. Gerard’s is now accepting reservations via their website, so book your table soon to be one of the first to experience the revived restaurant’s singular charm and celebrated cuisine.

Published 24-November-2023

Shop, Feast, and Dance the Season Away on James Street

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.

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

Get Gifting on James Street

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

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

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.

Read: Brooki Bakehouse Fortitude Valley Gains Instant Recognition Thanks to TikTok

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.

Published 21-November-2023