Pavement Whispers: Volume 555 April 28
From news of a new Italian eatery for Bulimba to a coffee festival in North Lakes, The Weekend Edition is always on the search for the latest food news in Brisbane, dedicated to ensuring its readers are in the know. When we put our ears to the pavement this week, this is what we found out …
Romeo Italian
A new Italian dining experience is set to arrive in Bulimba next week, with restaurateur Simone Presta (of Doughcraft and Scugnizzi fame) preparing to unveil Romeo Italian at 161 Oxford Street. Taking over the former Medé space, Romeo (named after Simone’s son) will introduce a fresh Italian tapas-style concept to the neighbourhood, showcasing traditional favourites in a modern, shareable small plate format that encourages guests to sample multiple dishes in one sitting. The menu will also include mains and full-sized plates of pasta, for those with an appetite. An elevated beverage program will feature a 100-label wine list and menu of contemporary cocktails. As for the fit-out, the team is keeping Medé’s light and airy aesthetic unchanged, with a strong focus on warm, community-driven hospitality poised to bring a vibrant new energy to the suburb. Keep your eyes peeled for an up-close look at Romeo Italian soon.
Hallowed Grounds
Now open in Carseldine, Hallowed Grounds Cafe is a bright, modern neighbourhood spot designed for easy mornings and laid-back catch-ups. Located at Carseldine Village on Beams Road, the spacious, pastel-toned cafe will cater to locals and nearby workers with a relaxed, open setting perfect for everything from quick coffee runs to group gatherings. On the menu, expect familiar Australian breakfast and brunch classics elevated with subtle twists – think hot-honey bacon savoury waffles, miso mushroom toast, umami crunch garden bowls and French toast with fresh fruit and caramelised-date butter. The fare will be available alongside a strong coffee program powered by Axil Coffee Roasters, with a focus on quality and consistency.
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Told You So to host a coffee festival in collaboration with Single O
North Lakes coffee shop Told You So is celebrating its tenth birthday in the best way possible – with an exclusive, one-day-only coffee festival on Monday May 4 (Labour Day). In collaboration with Single O, the free drop-in event is open to the whole community. Highlights include complimentary limited-edition Colombia strawberry filter coffee on tap, breakfast food trucks serving Italian classics and American-style burgers, birthday cookies by Black Lemonade, Whistle Beverage Co. refreshments and Alternative Dairy’s cold-brew soft-serve. With a local DJ setting the morning mix and plenty to enjoy, this is one celebration not to miss. Cruise on over to Told You So in North Lakes from 7:00 am to 12:00 pm on Monday May 4.
Golden Avenue makes Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Hot List
Anyday Group’s Middle Eastern-inspired venue, Golden Avenue, has been recognised by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the best new restaurants in the world. The 2026 Hot List, published last week, highlights top-tier dining destinations selected by the publication’s global editors and contributors. Spanning everything from hotel fine diners to intimate neighbourhood venues, the list celebrates standout openings across the globe – placing Golden Avenue firmly on the international stage. Located on Edward Street in Brisbane City, the venue opened in late August 2025 and has since drawn praise for its interiors by J.AR OFFICE, as well as its bold menu celebrating the flavours of the Levant. With a relaxed yet refined setting, Golden Avenue focuses on long lunches, lively dinners and everything in between.
Sunshine Coast’s Banana Bender Pub welcomes new burger and pizza spot
Arriving just in time for the long weekend, the Banana Bender Pub has unveiled a new addition to the Sunshine Coast dining scene. Burger and Pizza Co. officially opened its doors last week, offering locals and visitors a place to enjoy signature burgers and handcrafted pizzas – perfect for those visiting Aussie World or stopping off the Bruce Highway on a road trip. Banana Bender Pub general manager Jenny Howell said the team is thrilled to support local suppliers through a partnership with Maleny Buffalo Farm. This commitment to sourcing from trusted growers and producers ensures premium, nutrient-rich buffalo meat from the Sunshine Coast hinterland, showcasing ethical farming practices. Menu highlights include the Sticky Beak pizza, topped with hickory barbecue sauce, fior di latte mozzarella, chicken, red onion and roasted capsicum, as well as The Knot burger, featuring a juicy house-made beef patty, smoked bacon, fresh salad and a drizzle of ‘nduja mayo, all served on a soft milk bun. Burger and Pizza Co. is open every day from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, making it a convenient stop on your next trip north.
If you’ve heard something that’s worth mentioning in The Weekend Edition’s Pavement Whispers, email [email protected].
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