Sea Legs spreads its wings with a new neighbourhood haunt in Wilston

Sea Legs Brewing Co. wasted no time finding steady footing in Brisbane’s beer scene when it opened in late 2018. Since launch, the Kangaroo Point-based beer maker has deftly navigated pandemics and uncertainty in the craft-beer industry, remaining a steadily popular suds spot for the brew-loving populace.

Now, owner Jon Fuchs is ready to expand.

Very soon, Jon will open the doors to Almanac, a brand-new bar and eatery currently taking shape in the old Tomato Brothers space on Kedron Brook Road. For Jon, a Wilston local, the site offered an opportunity to realise his plans for a new venue – one that shared DNA with his riverside brewery, but was also distinct.

So, how does Jon describe his new 90-seat joint?

“I’d say it’s a cosy neighbourhood bar crossed with a wine-slash-cocktail bar, crossed with a vinyl concept,” Jon says. “We’re creating an inviting space for not only the local crowd, but a broader demographic, and I think it’ll evolve as we get settled into the space.”

Jon has worked with architecture and interior design firm Cayas + Ward (Oxford 152, Breakfast Creek Hotel) on Almanac’s aesthetic, which pairs ochre tones, sleek green tiling and brass fixtures to create a timeless visual identity. The name of the venue itself harks back back to Jon’s pastoral upbringing back in the United States.

Food & Drink

Sea Legs Brewing Co.

Under the Story Bridge at 89 Main Street, Kangaroo Point

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“I grew up on a farm and an almanac is something that farmers use to plan their season ahead,” Jon explains. “It tells you the seasonal changes throughout the year, what to expect, and so on.”

Food & Drink

Sea Legs Brewing Co.

Under the Story Bridge at 89 Main Street, Kangaroo Point

More Info

With that in mind, Almanac’s interiors will boast a throwback feel, with warmth and approachability as key objectives of the design.

“There’s a very warm effect to all of it, I think,” says Jon. “It’s like an older semi-American farm-style cafe, diner thing. That feeds into just a really cosy and inviting environment.”

Once open, Almanac’s bar will dispense Sea Legs beers, plus wines and cocktails. Brennen Eaton (formerly of Barry Parade Public House) has come aboard as Almanac’s venue manager, assisting with the curation of the beverage program.

“Brennen comes from a good background in those [wine and cocktail] worlds,” says Jon. “It’ll evolve as we settle in. We’ll see what everyone’s after.”

That said, Jon confirms that most, if not all, of Sea Legs Brewing Co.’s core range will be available, either on tap at one of Almanac’s eight taps or by the can. Expect to see a rotating IPA, a low-carb cerveza and a ginger beer, plus plenty more.

When it comes to vino, Jon says to expect a solid selection of classics and crowd favourites.

“We’ve put together a pretty comprehensive wine list that’s not overbearing,” says Jon. “There’s a lot of options there, some high quality stuff, selected to pair with the food in some way.”

Like the kitchen at the Sea Legs brewery, Almanac’s menu will boast an American focus. But where the Kangaroo Point hub slings Detroit-style pizzas, frickles, burgers and wings, Jon says Almanac will lean more towards barbecue, employing a woodfired oven to lend heat and smoke to a smorgasbord of options.

While the menu will boast American-inspired foundations, Jon says Almanac’s offering will also draw influence from Mexican cuisine, plus some Asian and Middle Eastern inflections.

“We’re pulling a lot of inspiration from American barbecue,” Jon reveals. “Not necessarily old-school barbecue where it’s just meat city – we’re really moving into the new world, modern barbecue, but putting our own spin on it.”

Though Jon isn’t shy about the connections between Sea Legs and Almanac, he hopes the latter is able to exist outside the shadow cast by its older sibling, finding a community of its own among Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

“They’re very sister-esque, I guess, but I’ve always liked the idea of the bar having its own identity,” says Jon.

“I think venturing into an area like this – an area that could use a bit more – and hitting a different touch point is important.”

Almanac is expected to open in the next week or two – keep your eyes on the venue’s social media pages for word on the official opening date. Rest assured, we’ll be popping in for a peek when it opens.