Pavement Whispers: Volume 565 July 7

Jul 07, 2026, updated Jul 07, 2026
Chef Marco La Perna is opening Don Gino Trattoria on Hardgrave Road in West End this weekend | Credit: image supplied
Chef Marco La Perna is opening Don Gino Trattoria on Hardgrave Road in West End this weekend | Credit: image supplied

From news of a Sicilian-style trattoria opening in West End to Sunnybank’s new sky-blue-hued sando spotThe 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 …

Don Gino Trattoria
If you’ve been solemnly scrolling through reels and carousels of friends enjoying a Sicilian summer, here’s some news that might help alleviate your FOMO. A brand-new Italian-inspired trattoria and wine bar is set to open in West End, with Don Gino opening on Hardgrave Road this weekend. Owned and operated by Sicily-born chef Marco La Perna, Don Gino has transformed the old Bar Hugo space into a lively neighbourhood eatery where generous hospitality, exceptional produce and simple, carefully executed dishes take centre stage. The restaurant aims to offer diners an authentic taste of Italy, with classic dishes like Sicilian-style arancini, panelle (fried chickpea fritters), handmade pasta, pizza and cannoli (filled with imported sheep ricotta from Italy) on offer alongside a wine list loaded with imported drops from Italy (with a sharp focus on Sicilian vino). Throw in a list of classic cocktails, and Don Gino is shaping up to be a warm, family-friendly eatery where every guest feels as though they’ve experienced a little piece of Italy. Stay tuned for an up-close look inside Don Gino next week.

Fufu Sando will serve a range of Japanese-inspired sandos along with specialty coffee | Credit: image supplied

Fufu Sando
A colourful new sando specialist will make its debut in Sunnybank next month, with Fufu Sando set to celebrate its grand opening on Saturday August 1. Owned and operated by hospitality veteran Haru (who previously has worked across Gold Coast cafes like Goya in Broadbeach), Fufu will specialise in Japanese-style sandwiches and specialty coffee – slinging both from a striking sky-blue-hued site in Market Square. Fufu Sando will specialise in a tightly curated selection of hot and cold Japanese sandwiches served on soft shokupan bread, with a chef-curated offering served with dipping sauces – think curry-dipped pork katsu sandos to beef fillings with yakiniku sauce.  Pairing the grab-and-go eats with Seven Miles coffee, ceremonial-grade matcha and vibrant blue spirulina drinks, Fufu Sando looks to blend the comforting familiarity of the Japanese convenience-store sandwich with a fresh, modern cafe experience. Keep your eyes peeled for more soon.

Firehouse Subs has opened its first Australian location at Westfield Mt Gravatt | Credit: image supplied

Firehouse Subs
American sandwich chain Firehouse Subs has officially landed in Australia, opening its first local outpost at Westfield Mt Gravatt and marking the beginning of a broader national rollout with master franchise partner Retail Food Group. Specialising in premium hot subs packed with slow-cooked meats, premium cuts and bold flavours, Firehouse Subs has experienced sell-out days since its official launch on Thursday July 2, with crowds descending for a taste of popular signatures like the brisket and cheddar, steak and cheese, spicy Cajun chicken and the NY-style pastrami sub. In addition to its sizeable subs, the sandwich spot is also serving wraps, gourmet cookies and sides.

Straddie Brewing Co. is bringing its Makers’ Table experience to C’est Bon this Thursday | Credit: image supplied

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