Sydney icon NOMAD is making its Queensland debut on James Street
One of Brisbane’s most storied restaurant spaces is changing hands. Later this year, the former Gerard’s site will reopen as NOMAD Brisbane – the first Queensland venue from hospitality heavy hitter, edition Group. Expect woodfired flavours, top-tier Queensland produce and a curated beverage program. Here’s what we know …
When Fortitude Valley institution Gerard’s closed after an incredible 14 years of operation, the rumour mill immediately kicked into overdrive, with foodies hypothesising about what would replace it, as scuttlebutt hinted that a big name had been secured to occupy the storied space.
Well, it seems like the rumour mill was correct. edition Group – the hospitality powerhouse behind NOMAD, Reine & La Rue and Privé – has announced that it will be making its first foray into the Queensland market, bringing the NOMAD brand to James Street later this year.
First opened in Sydney in 2013 and expanded to Melbourne in 2021, NOMAD is famed for its produce-driven approach to cooking, employing flame and smoke across a menu influenced by the flavours of Spain, Morocco and the Middle East.
Though an established name on the Australian culinary scene, edition Group isn’t complacent when it comes to bringing the brand to Brisbane. According to edition Group founder Rebecca Yazbek, NOMAD Brisbane will look to make an enduring first impression by reflecting the city in which it resides.
“We’ve never wanted NOMAD to feel exactly the same in every city,” says Rebecca. “What connects the restaurants is our approach to food and dining style, but each one should feel like it belongs where it is.
“Brisbane has such a strong dining culture, the city has its own pace and incredible produce, and we’re looking forward to creating a NOMAD that feels genuinely at home here.”
edition Group has enlisted Jarod Webb of J.AR Office (the team responsible for Gerard’s 2023 redesign) to reshape the interiors once more, though the venue’s eye-catching rammed-earth walls will be retained, while a more open floor plan will brighten the space.
As for NOMAD Brisbane’s menu, the team has confirmed that edition Group culinary director Michael Greenlaw will be overseeing the culinary output alongside NOMAD Melbourne head chef Jeremy Swann. Veteran NOMAD Melbourne team member Robbie Pyke-Marcou is relocating to Brisbane to take up the role of venue manager, while group bar manager Felix Woods and group sommelier Steve Senturk will team up to shape the beverage program.
Full details of the menu are yet to be revealed, though the crew has confirmed that Queensland produce will be key to the offering, with the menu built around lighter dishes and big flavours.
NOMAD Brisbane’s official opening date will be announced in the coming months, but locals can register their interest and join the booking waitlist via the restaurant’s website. Stay tuned for updates.
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