Although 2018 is set to bring some new arrivals to Brisbane City’s waterfront stretch, the precinct’s established venues certainly aren’t sitting idle. Customs House on Queen Street unveiled its new-look eatery Patina last week, after undertaking a significant overhaul of its river-facing restaurant portion to house the fresh concept. Patina looks to stand alone as its own entity, seeking to establish itself as a refined dining destination as befits a venue with this location. Linking back to the historical nature of the building, the name Patina references the building’s green oxidised domed roof, which has become a recognisable component of Customs House’s aesthetic. The restaurant space has been retrofitted with an impressive light installation above the main dining room, a new marble bar top and a slick colour scheme, as well as eye-catching plates and cutlery.
Patina’s menu, overseen by executive chef John Offenhauser, focuses on a modern paddock-to-plate philosophy, featuring locally grown ingredients sourced from garden, pasture, sea and bay. The menu’s protein offering showcases seafood such as chargrilled octopus, scallop ceviche and hot-smoked ocean trout, while those seeking turf over surf can savour eye fillets with smoked potato and truffle, slow-cooked lamb shoulders with black-garlic hummus, smoked-brisket steam buns and Darling Downs OP ribs. Patina’s drinks list is formidable, with a wine list featuring top-shelf Rieslings, rosés and champagnes from small producers, while a stellar cocktail menu offers creative concoctions to enliven the tastebuds. Although there are a lot of changes on deck, Patina will be continuing Customs House’s lauded champagne tea and Sunday breakfast services.
Patina is now open to the public! For booking details, menu information and opening hours, click over to the Stumble Guide.
