Category: BRISBANE

Byblós Brisbane Unveiled: New Look, New Menu, Same Legacy

Food Lebanese Byblos Kataifi Ashta front centre Deluxe Fattoush back Lebanese Lamb Rice

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Updated: 12/11/2024

Step into the enchanting world of Byblós, a culinary masterpiece that’s just been given a fabulous makeover. Nestled in the heart of Brisbane, this iconic venue is the cherished firstborn of the Ghanem Group, a family-owned restaurant dynasty that spans a delightful ten restaurants and bars, two of which are tucked away in Melbourne. The recent renovation of Byblós is nothing short of a revelation, inspired by a 2023 research trip to the Ghanem family’s ancestral homeland of Lebanon. Adonis and Nehme Ghanem, along with their cousin and Group CEO Vianna Joseph, and Executive Chef Jake Nicolson, embarked on a culinary pilgrimage to draw inspiration from the rich tapestry of Lebanese flavours and culture. Bringing a slice of Byblós, Lebanon to Brisbane, the team meticulously selected artworks, furnishings, and hand-crafted tiles from the ancient city. These intricate tiles now grace the table tops, telling a story of a modern city that beats with the heart of its ancient past. It’s a setting where you can almost hear the whispers of history as you savour each bite. But what’s a stunning restaurant without an equally impressive menu? Byblós doesn’t disappoint. Known for its generous, shared feasts, the menu pays homage to traditional Lebanese recipes, enhanced with a touch of contemporary finesse. Think vibrant mezat plates, perfect for sharing with mates. These small dishes are divided into cold and hot varieties, maintaining all-time favourites like Rakakat – those addictive filo pastries filled with mozzarella and feta that have a following more dedicated than a football fan club…. Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, CITIES

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Pilates on the Gold Coast: why you should pick it up

Muse Pilates 18

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Posted: 13/10/2024

Welcome to a new kind of workout experience on the Gold Coast! Muse Pilates is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its first studio, nestled in the heart of Southport at The Alcove. From 14th October, locals can immerse themselves in the world of reformer Pilates, crafted meticulously for individuals of all fitness levels. Muse Pilates is on a mission to redefine fitness with its mantra of “real Pilates for real people.” This isn’t just about physical exercise; it’s an invitation to escape the usual hustle and bustle, shed those pesky judgements, and find your zen in a supportive and empowering space. The studio is dedicated to making everyone feel at home, regardless of their Pilates prowess or the shape they’re in. As Allana Ford, the ever-enthusiastic CEO of Muse Pilates, puts it, “We want people to feel welcome no matter their fitness level, body shape, or experience with Pilates. If you can juggle your to-do list, you can do Pilates with us.” The Muse experience is all about balance—embracing wellness with a touch of cheeky indulgence (yes, they even believe in the occasional pinot!). Classes are boutique-style, with a maximum of 12 participants, allowing for personalised attention that ensures you get the most out of every session. With experienced instructors who are as passionate about your well-being as they are about Pilates, you’re in for a treat both physically and mentally. Ford continues, “We believe in health, joy, and the occasional pinot. Life is about balance, and at Muse, we encourage our clients… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES, HEALTH & FITNESS

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Lebanese food in Brisbane: a new experience at Byblós

Bar Dining Night Byblos

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Posted: 05/10/2024

October 2024 marks a significant milestone for Brisbane’s dining scene as Byblós, a beloved icon, reopens its doors at Portside Wharf. This grand reopening comes after a comprehensive renovation and the introduction of a vibrant new menu, ushering in a modern era of Lebanese dining while staying true to its roots. Byblós first made waves in August 2006, becoming a cornerstone of Brisbane’s culinary landscape under the stewardship of Lebanese brothers Adonis and Nehme Ghanem. Founders of the esteemed Ghanem Group, the brothers have expanded their vision to encompass ten restaurants across Brisbane and Melbourne, with Lúc L?c soon joining The Star Brisbane. The Ghanem family’s legacy in shaping Lebanese dining in the city began with Antoine and Adrienne Ghanem, who introduced Café Violette in 1978 and Chez Laila in 1992. Fast forward to today, and the family is set to redefine Lebanese cuisine in Brisbane following an inspiring journey back to Lebanon in 2023. This trip, attended by Adonis, Nehme, their cousin and CEO Vianna Joseph, and Executive Chef Jake Nicolson, infused the team with fresh insights into contemporary Lebanese flavours. Vianna Joseph expresses the family’s enthusiasm for the refreshed Byblós: “We are thrilled to embark on the next decade at Portside Wharf, bringing a modern Lebanese concept to Brisbane. Our experiences in Lebanon have enriched our approach, adding complexity and depth that we’re eager to share with Australian diners.” While embracing innovation, Byblós retains its core values—generous hospitality, exuberant culinary experiences, and a spirit of conviviality. The renowned drinks menu continues to shine… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK

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Taste Port Douglas is back this August

La Dolce Vita Long Lunch tast eport douglas

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Posted: 01/07/2024

From 8–11 August, Australia’s favourite food festival in FNQ, Taste Port Douglas, will return for its eighth iteration, delivering four days of culinary excellence in the idyllic resort destination. This year is set to be its biggest and best festival yet, as for the first time ever, its highly-anticipated dining experiences will span across both its home port of Port Douglas and the FNQ capital, Cairns. Following a turbulent start to the year, weathering Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Taste Port Douglas’ co-founders, Reina and Spencer Patrick, are excited to bring the area back to life, welcoming their all-star line-up of the nation’s top culinary talent, as well as local and far-flung visitors from across the country. “This year’s Taste Port Douglas will be a culinary celebration like no other, with a spectacular lineup of events and masterclasses hosted by some of the best talent in the country. Following the cyclone in December it’s been a tricky start to the year for the local community and businesses, and we’re now excited to see the festival bring FNQ back to life, welcoming both interstate and international guests to feast with us once again,” says Spencer Patrick, Co-Founder and Culinary Director, Taste Port Douglas. He continues: “We hosted more than 10,000 visitors at Taste Port Douglas last year, many of whom travelled from overseas to feast with us, and this year we anticipate an even bigger crowd with bringing our capital city into the action.” This year’s menu entails returning friends of the festival and new faces alike, hosting… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK

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Winter woes in Australia: Combatting seasonal blues with Hygge

a man sitting in a chair reading a book in a living room

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Updated: 29/06/2024

Influenced by the cold weather, shorter days, and longer nights, new research has revealed Aussie moods are taking a dramatic downturn as the mercury drops. A new national survey from Australia’s leading meal kit delivery service, HelloFresh, shows more than half of the nation (53%) is experiencing ‘Winter Woes’, impacting our comfort levels, motivation, and eating habits. With 41% of Australians associating the seasonal shift with sadness and loneliness, the data has highlighted the biggest barriers to achieving comfort and satisfaction in winter as a lack of sunlight (61%), cold homes and poor heating (53%), and our inability to spend time outside (50%). According to Positive Psychologist and Founder of the Happiness Institute, Dr. Tim Sharp, Aussies should consider looking to the icy isles of Scandinavia for inspiration this Winter by adopting the Danish concept of Hygge (pronounced ‘Hyoo-guh’). Dr. Tim Sharp explains: “As an outdoorsy nation, our transition from autumn to winter can be particularly tough as we grapple with the reality of spending more time indoors. What we see as a result is an increase in those feelings of sadness, loneliness, and frustration, as reflected in HelloFresh’s research. Hygge encourages us to reframe how we feel about our time indoors and the winter months by finding comfort in the discomfort and embracing coziness to boost our moods and make the cooler months more bearable.” Fortunately, simple adjustments to our environment and habits can help us traverse those barriers to the comfort we all feel. Creating cosy and inviting spaces in our homes with… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ADELAIDE, BRISBANE, CITIES, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

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DAP & Co. Unveils Naldham House to Transform Brisbane’s Hospitality Scene

Paul Piticco Denis Sheahan Andrew Baturo

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Posted: 29/06/2024

DAP & Co., one of Brisbane’s leading hospitality groups, has announced it will open its much-anticipated new offering in Dexus’s Brisbane landmark, Naldham House, next month after a long restoration. Set to become the city’s hottest new dining, drinking, and events destination, the iconic three-storey building will be home to three unique venue concepts, with the first two, Naldham House Brasserie & Terrace and Club Felix, to open in mid-July. Follow the journey at @naldhamhouse and @clubfelixbrisbane. Naldham House is the latest venue from DAP & Co, co-owned by Andrew Baturo, Denis Sheahan, and Paul Piticco, who specialise in respectfully restoring and refurbishing heritage-listed buildings in Brisbane to create impressive hospitality concepts. The group are behind beloved venues Popolo Italian in Brisbane’s Southbank, the award-winning Gresham Bar in the old Queensland National Bank building in Brisbane’s CBD, and Walter’s Steakhouse and Wine Bar on the ground floor of the Old Mineral House, where they brought New York charm to Downtown Brisbane. The 140-year-old heritage-listed Mary Street building will be a major milestone of Dexus’s $2.5 billion Waterfront Brisbane project on Eagle Street. The revitalised precinct will deliver a global-standard business and tourist destination that aims to maximise its prime riverside location with enhanced open spaces, amenities and a revitalised premier dining hub. The incredibly beautiful late nineteenth century maritime building, which has been unoccupied since the Brisbane Polo Club closed almost a decade ago, will lead the charge in revitalising the heritage buildings of Downtown Brisbane, with other key hospitality operators also moving into the… Read More

Category: BRISBANE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK

Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular: celebrating craft beer

Copy of GABS 2023 730

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Posted: 29/05/2024

The Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular, affectionately known as GABS, stands as a unique and unrivalled event in the global beer scene. It is a singular gathering where aficionados can savour 120 fresh and exclusive festival beers, each meticulously crafted by 120 distinct artisanal breweries, predominantly comprising small independent establishments, all in the span of a single day. Annually, GABS issues a widespread call to breweries near and far, inviting them to tender their interest in brewing a bespoke GABS Festival beer. This summons acts as a fertile ground for brewers to unleash their creativity unhindered. It serves as a crucible of sorts, nurturing concepts for beers that aim to astonish and gratify the palates of attendees. Notably, over 1,400 brews have been concocted for GABS, with some of these festival creations transcending to become chart-toppers, such as Hop Nation’s revered Jedi Juice, Feral Brewing’s esteemed Karma Citra & Imperial Biggie, Deeds Brewing’s sought-after Juice Train NEIPA, and Two Birds Brewing’s iconic Taco, among a host of others! From the multitude of proposals received, only 120 elite selections secure a coveted spot – constrained by the capacity of taps adorning the vast GABS Festival bar. Each of these chosen brews exudes excitement and singularity as brewers test the boundaries of beer innovation! The current roster is a testament to this ethos, brimming with eccentric and fantastical blends. In the prevailing trends of 2024, we witness a surge in the incorporation of indigenous ingredients such as native Ooray (Davidson) plums, local macadamias, Australian endemic blood limes, ripe… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

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New VIVA North Melbourne cabaret venue and bar

cabaret pexels laclav 16651136

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Updated: 01/05/2024

This April, the industrial precinct of North Melbourne will witness a spectacular transformation with the grand opening of VIVA, an innovative venue that harmonizes live performances with exquisite dining. By seamlessly blending a vibrant bar setting with captivating cabaret experiences, VIVA is poised to redefine entertainment in Australia, creating an immersive hub for underground artistry, culinary delights, and premium libations. Step into a realm where history intertwines with modern allure at VIVA. Infused with the opulence of the 1920s and accentuated by cutting-edge staging and technology, VIVA promises to be a stage for the nation’s most distinguished dance and cabaret luminaries. The venue is crafted to whisk guests away on a journey of delight, excitement, and artistic exploration. Featuring two exclusive in-house shows that anchor the night’s entertainment lineup, VIVA kicks off with Elegant, a captivating cabaret performance brimming with comedy, dance, charm, and theatrics. For those seeking a more provocative and daring experience, Exotic awaits as the late-night spectacle designed to captivate, enthrall, and perhaps even challenge your perceptions. Elegant, the early show, is helmed by the acclaimed arts and entertainment maestro, Jason Coleman. With an illustrious portfolio encompassing iconic events like the Sydney Olympics opening ceremony, hit musicals such as Hair and Hairspray, and the beloved TV series So You Think You Can Dance, guests at VIVA are primed for an extraordinary evening within an intimate setting. Director of VIVA, Karlee Kaminski, shared, “At VIVA, we aspire to merge the enchantment of live performances with exceptional dining, service, and beverages, establishing a new… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES, COFFEE, FOOD & DRINK

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Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship cafe is open

Tobys Estate Brisbane 4

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Posted: 01/05/2024

Attention coffee aficionados in Brisbane! Get ready to embark on a journey of coffee enlightenment as Toby’s Estate introduces free monthly coffee tastings at their Brisbane flagship café. Dive into the world of Toby’s origins, coffee processes, and the latest fascinating coffee techniques in an engaging and informative setting. But wait, there’s more than just coffee awaiting you! Alongside the aromatic brews, indulge in a plethora of delectable cooked meals and sweet treats from the full kitchen, perfectly paired with your espressos and lattes for a complete sensory experience. So, Brisbane dwellers, why delay? We look forward to welcoming you soon! The Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship café is conveniently located at 1/33 Longland St, Newstead QLD 4006, open daily from 6:30 am to 2 pm. Join us at the NEW Toby’s Brisbane flagship for this month’s complimentary tasting event! Engage with Queensland’s Toby’s experts, savor the latest Single Origin offerings, and elevate your home brewing skills to new heights. Event details: Experience the epitome of coffee excellence at Toby’s Estate Brisbane Flagship Café – where every cup tells a story, and every sip is a journey through exceptional taste and quality. Get a free tasting ticket: Register for your free ticket here.

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, BRISBANE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK

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