Winnifred’s Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Brisbane’s CBD is getting a fresh jolt of flavour and flair as a new group of bars and restaurants prepares to open across the city centre and nearby Fortitude Valley. These venues, led by some of Brisbane’s most experienced operators, are adding more colour and character to the streets, drawing attention from locals eager for new places to eat, drink and gather.

Golden Avenue brings Levantine flavours to the city core

Golden Avenue is a Middle Eastern-inspired eatery set to open at 67 Edward Street in Brisbane’s CBD, led by the Anyday group behind Agnes and hôntō. Chefs Ben Williamson and Adam Wolfers will bring their take on modern Levantine food, with mezze, flatbreads, seafood and charcoal-grilled meats.

The venue will also feature a garden-style terrace in the middle of the city. After launch, Anyday will shift focus to a second CBD project at the heritage-listed Coal Board Building on Mary Street. Plans include two restaurants and a cocktail bar, though further details are still under wraps.

Winnifred’s on Arthur set to sparkle in Fortitude Valley

Champagne expert Megan Nunn is set to open Winnifred’s on Arthur at 34 Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley, just north of the CBD. The multi-level venue will include a Champagne bar, French bistro, wine shop and private event spaces. A cellar holding more than 15,000 bottles will focus on grower Champagnes from independent producers.

Chef Antoine Potier, formerly of Restaurant Dan Arnold and e’cco Bistro, will lead a menu built on local produce and French technique. Designed for sustainability, the venue will aim for net-zero energy use with solar panels and battery storage.

Shaman promises bold drinks in a hidden city spot

Shaman is a new underground bar opening soon at 109 Edward Street in Brisbane’s CBD, tucked behind the former Metro Arts building. It’s the latest project from Peter Hollands, known for Frog’s Hollow Saloon and Alice. The space features exposed timber and old brickwork, creating a moody, hidden feel.

The drinks menu will focus on around 100 rums, 50 tequilas, and a tight selection of classic cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris. Inspired by the music of Carlos Santana, Hollands aims to blend global influences through both drinks and design.

TABOO goes modern Thai on a Fortitude Valley rooftop

TABOO is a modern Thai restaurant and bar on the rooftop of The Constance Hotel at 18–20 Constance Street in Fortitude Valley. Created by the team behind Mr Vain, it pairs bold Thai flavours with a sleek open-air setting of green tones and dark timber.

The menu reimagines classic dishes with local ingredients, focusing on shared plates like curries and seafood. The drinks list includes Thai-inspired cocktails, over 100 wines, and a small selection of natural sparkling wines. TABOO is open evenings from Tuesday to Sunday, with bookings available online.

Published 27-June-2025

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.

Fortitude Valley Champagne bar — *Photo Credit: Winnifred’s/Facebook*

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.

Champagne bar Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Winnifred’s/Facebook*

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

Tag: Winnifred’s

CBD Welcomes New Wave of Dining and Drinks as Hospitality Scene Grows