The Seven Wonders of Albion
Albion, on Brisbane’s north side, has morphed into a hub of delicious food, entertainment, inner-city convenience and innovative infrastructure.
Along the suburb’s busiest stretch are new hotspots opening every few months, while around some of the quieter suburban streets cute corner cafes attract a steady flow of regular customers.
The bar culture also is coming to life, with some of Brisbane’s most famous restaurateurs opening shop along the Sandgate Road “old quarter” strip.
The 2017 must-go’s:
Vaquero Dining
Brand new on the strip, Vaquero Dining is fast-becoming a Brisbane fave. Hidden behind a tiny metro-style butchery, this restaurant and bar has been elegantly fitted out. It includes a backlit bar delivering a moody ambience, leading to a cobbled-stone courtyard lined with dark wooden décor. With cocktails on tap and what’s been dubbed as one of Brisbane’s best steaks, you can’t go wrong with this new kid on the block.
The masters behind this gorgeous, Spanish-inspired dining experience are Nick Pinn and Laurie Rogencamp (also the owners of venues Malt Dining, Brisbane and Malt Pier, Newstead, and boutique bottle-shop group Malt Traders) along with Chef Damian Porter (ex-Aquitaine, South Bank and latterly Malt Dining, Brisbane).
She Bangs Coffee
Launching a bar and nightlife scene this year, She Bangs Coffee is tipped to become the next hot-spot for a cold beverage in an industrial precinct. Already serving up a well-crafted brew, the café offers a rustic, relaxed atmosphere with optional outdoor seating in the sun. It offers some great options for a tasty breakfast or lunch… and it’s now open for dinner and drinks Friday night.
Brewbakers
Brewbakers is an artisan bakery - an oldie but a goodie - making arguably Brisbane’s best salmon bagels. From delicious sweet baked treats, like their delicious homemade chocolate brownies and jam donuts, to their handmade sausage rolls and sandwich variety, Brewbakers boasts a hearty menu inviting customers to indulge.
As they serve you, Brewbaker’s vibrant staff will either be dressed in colourful festive wear or singing tunes about their deliciously carby treats.
Vieille Branche
Vieille Branche, meaning “The Old Branch”, is an eccentric warehouse café and treasure trove offering fine food, live music and shopping. With loads of character and variety, this is not your average venue – it invites locals to grab a bite to eat all the while checking out crafty stalls. From handmade jewellery, vintage antiques and furniture, this local hangout entertains while also pleasing the taste buds.
Efes One Turkish Restaurant
If you want traditional Turkish food at reasonable prices, Efes is a must. Along with a tasty menu full of variety, Efes provides a cultural experience with a colourful atmosphere and, if you’re lucky, belly dancing entertainment. Catering for large groups and offering a banquet of beautiful Turkish flavours, you can’t go wrong with this trusty family local.
Named after the owner’s two children, Artie and Mai is a local staple for a good coffee and a delicious selection of fresh food with a Euro flare. All-day dining and takeaway makes it the perfect spot for a business meeting, a romantic lunch date or a quick bite to eat on the run. Everything is made in-house, from the delicious pizza-bases and tacos to the buttermilk pancakes and cheesecakes. The rustic brick-walled space gives it a comfortable and homey vibe.
What’s even better – you can enjoy a booze-filled lunch with the café boasting a selection of locally craft beers, wines and cocktails complementing the social atmosphere.
Arlette’s Kitchen
Radiating classic charm in a contemporary light-filled space, Arlette’s offers a marrying of Asian-inspired meals among the European-influenced dishes, giving customers the best of both worlds. Elegantly plated up, the duck and orange and the roasted pork belly are a must-try. Owner, Linton Smith, previously opened Arlette’s in New Farm and Scarborough, and has recreated the feel of these restaurants in Albion where he has seen great success.