Dijon
A new sandwich shop taking inspiration from mighty Melbourne institutions like Hector’s Deli is opening soon in Brisbane’s south. GDB Group, the team behind beloved cafes Deedot Coffee House and Never Been, will be opening new concept Dijon in a few month’s time over in Tarragindi. Transforming the site previously home to Esher St Cafe & Deli (as well as the former hairdresser next door), Dijon will boast 80 seats across ten indoor tables, a 100-sqm rear deck and footpath dining, while a tilt window opening out to the street will service takeaway coffee and toastie orders for those on the move. Although the menu is still being formulated, the GDB gang has told us to expect plenty of staples executed at a higher quality point, with the likes of hand-sliced meat and cheese, and house-made sauces being used to punch up the traditional toastie formula. The team isn’t just talking the talk – a recent research trip down south saw the Dijon team glean expert know-how directly from Hector’s Deli. Since then, the crew has imported its own number of Spidoglass glass ceramic contact grills, which will give its toasted sandwiches a crispy golden exterior, while still keeping the bread fluffy on the inside. Though the menu will be anchored predominantly by toasties, we’ve been told a few simple-yet-satisfying extras (think avocado toast) will be available alongside cups of its own specialty coffee blend supplied by Roast by Yili. An extensive fit-out process has just begun, with a completion date tentatively pencilled in for late-May or early-June.
Loulaki
Here’s a tasty tidbit of news for our pals in Toowoomba – brand-new restaurant Loulaki is set to elevate the local dining scene with a redefined take on Mediterranean-style fare. Opening in mid-April in the character-filled Saba Building on Duggan Street (the site previously occupied by Proof BBQ & Booze), Loulaki will mesh the industrial-chic exterior with a warm interior aesthetic that will channel the charm of the breezy Mediterranean coast, while still maintaining a sense of sophistication throughout. Inspired by the childhood memories of its founders, Loulaki’s menu will focus on communal share-style dining, starting with artfully presented meze (crafted from locally sourced protein and vegetables) and expanding to include saganaki, dips with warm pita bread, salivation-worthy charcoal souvlaki and fresh seafood. Keep your eyes peeled for more on Loulaki in the coming weeks!
Lamune Restaurant
A team of seasoned hospitality veterans is pooling its talents together to open a warm and welcoming eatery in Brendale next month, with Thai-inspired Lamune Restaurant currently taking shape at Eatons Hill Village on South Pine Road. Boasting a 60-seat internal dining room and a pet-friendly outdoor space with room for another 20 guests, we’ve been told that Lamune will boast a chic, yet comfortable atmosphere where guests will feel like they’re dining at the home of a friend. Showcasing authentic flavours via modern cooking techniques and presentation, Lamune’s offering will be a little bit different to that of your local Thai takeaway. While you’ll spy familiar faves like classic pad Thai, hearty massaman curry and san choy bao, dishes like the Fruity Barramundi (crispy barramundi served with cucumber, green apple, pineapple and lychee), pineapple fried rice (served with prawns, Chinese sausage, raisins and roasted cashew nuts), and ma hor (a bite-sized snack boasting a pork and peanut mix served atop a chunk of pineapple) are just a few of Lamune’s must-try signatures. The culinary offering will be backed by a beverage component including signature cocktails, beer (including Singha on tap) and a tight wine list. Lamune Restaurant is expected to open in early April – stay tuned for more info soon.
Buffalo Bar
In sad news for the inner-city bar scene, Buffalo Bar – the long-running American-inspired sports bar famed for wings, whiskey and wild times – quietly shut its doors on Sunday March 24. Buffalo Bar had been trading since 2014, occupying a prime corner position inside the heritage-listed Former Coal Board Building – the elegant three-storey rendered masonry warehouse at the junction of Edward and Mary Street. No official statement has been released regarding the venue’s closure or the future of the building itself. Rest assured, though – when we hear more, you’ll be the first to know!
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