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Today saw Brisbane Jamie Oliver fans rejoicing as the famous chef’s
Jamie’s Italian opened its doors on Edward St at 11:30am.
The two-storey, 240-seat restaurant is the fifth and largest Jamie’s Italian in Australia and features the same menu but with a distinct Queensland flavour to the interiors. All of the final details received approval from Mr Oliver’s team in London.
Mr Oliver told The Courier-Mail that he was more than impressed with the heritage-listed Rowes Arcade Edward St space, originally built in the 1900s.
“We’ve used lots of beautiful Queensland-inspired leadlight glass features, bespoke leather work and exposed walls to create a cool, urban feel, which works really well against the backdrop of the traditional space,” Mr Oliver told The Courier-Mail.
“I haven’t had a chance to visit Brisbane just yet, but my team are in town and they’re really excited by the food scene.”
The upmarket restaurant chain would not confirm the cost of the fit-out, but The Courier-Mail reports that it is rumoured to have cost upwards of $3 million. The restaurant will employ 35-45 chefs to prepare the national menu of handmade pasta, salads and signature dishes, priced from $12.50 up to $32, for lunch and dinner seven days a week.
“There are lots of young chefs getting in on the action and it sounds like Brisbane is upping its game and is becoming a real destination for young talent,” said Mr Oliver.
On street level, there is “Jamie’s Bar”, an antipasti island where chefs slice up charcuterie, and restaurant seating for 90. Downstairs, there is a larger 130-seat dining room and main kitchen, plus a second bar.
Jamie’s Italian Australia general manager Karen Westfield said she hopes the restaurant, positioned directly across from QueensPlaza, will revitalise the city.
“Jamie’s Italian has absolutely been a drawcard for other cities and I’m hearing that in this area in particular there isn’t much choice in terms of eateries,” Ms Westfield said.
“I think it will be great. The price point we’re at is so unique – people don’t expect to dine out and get change from $50 anymore.
“Eagle Street precinct is fabulous but we are totally different.”
