A heritage-listed church in West End is set to embark on its latest transformation. The 19th-century edifice, which recently housed a Pilates school, will soon open its doors as “August,” a promising new restaurant that’s already creating buzz in the city’s culinary circles.
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At the helm of this exciting venture is Brad Cooper, a name familiar to Brisbane’s gastronomes. Cooper, who previously led the kitchen at Florence in Camp Hill and served as chef at Bar Francine, is no newcomer to the hospitality scene. For August, he has joined forces with his partner, Matilda Riek, bringing a wealth of experience and vision to this unique dining concept.
August promises a menu that traverses the best of European cuisine, drawing inspiration from Italian, French, and Spanish culinary traditions. Cooper and Riek are crafting a selection that will spotlight both meat and seafood, with tantalising draft dishes already in the works.
Food enthusiasts can look forward to innovative creations such as a mud-crab omelette Arnold Bennett and butterflied blue mackerel served with pickled tomato and a mussel vinaigrette.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to its drink selection, with plans for a carefully curated wine list featuring 30 to 50 bottles. This eclectic mix will showcase both local Australian wines and international varieties, promising perfect pairings for every dish.
A Storied Setting
Photo credit: heritage.brisbane.qld.gov.au
The heritage-listed building housing August is a story unto itself. Originally constructed as a Methodist church in 1888 on Grey Street, it found a new home on Dornoch Terrace in 1914. This rich history presented both challenges and opportunities for Cooper and Riek as they set out to reinvent the space.
They shared that the transformation process was complex, requiring six months of planning and approvals, including consultations with heritage experts.
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Despite the structural challenges inherent in repurposing such an old building, the duo’s perseverance is paying off. Once completed, August will accommodate around 60 guests, featuring a small, intimate bar in one corner. The space will be adorned with carefully selected artworks, creating an atmosphere that’s both reverent to its past and exciting for its future.
The culinary world of Brisbane is eagerly awaiting the grand opening of August, which is expected to take place this November. As the final touches are put in place and the menu is perfected, food enthusiasts and curious locals alike are marking their calendars for what promises to be a noteworthy addition to the city’s vibrant dining scene.
Published 29-August-2024
