Brisbane’s James Street is set to captivate the taste buds and culinary senses of locals and visitors alike with the highly anticipated return of the James St Food + Wine Trail (JSFWT). From Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 July 2023, this vibrantFortitude Valley street will transform into a gastronomic wonderland, offering a feast for the senses and an opportunity to celebrate the Australia’s thriving culinary scene.
Renowned as the epicenter of Queensland’s finest restaurants and venues, James Street boasts an impressive collection of culinary gems, earning its reputation as one of Brisbane’s best food destinations. Every July, these esteemed establishments band together to create a four-day extravaganza of food events and activities as part of JSFWT. The festivities culminate in Market Day on Sunday 30 July, when the talented chefs, mixologists, and baristas step out of their kitchens and onto the street, serving up a grand feast for the community.
Over 7,500 square metres of James Street’s prime roadway, laneways, gardens, and outdoor spaces, spanning from McLachlan to Arthur St, will be transformed into a hub of alfresco fine dining, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The air will be filled with the tantalizing aromas of delectable cuisine, beckoning enthusiasts to indulge their palates. Market Day alone is expected to draw in crowds of epic proportions, with its free entry attracting over 20,000 locals in the previous year.
On Sunday 30 July, from 10 am to 5 pm, Market Day will showcase a myriad of culinary delights from both familiar favorites and exciting newcomers. Joining the ranks of esteemed eateries such as sAme sAme, Hellenika, ESSA, Cru Bar, and Mosconi, are three newcomers: The Nixon Room, Sunshine, and the soon-to-open modern Mexican Carmen. Together, they will offer 33 market stalls, providing a staggering 125 opportunities to sample restaurant-quality cuisine and cocktails. Even Gerard’s Bistro, currently undergoing refurbishment, will make a special appearance, allowing devoted patrons to savor its artful Arabic flavors.
Gelato Messina James St, a beloved institution in its own right, has prepared a delightful surprise to mark the occasion. In honor of JSFWT, they will unveil five limited-edition flavors, each available on a different day of the event. The flavor parade kicks off with “TAKIN’ THE MIKKI” on Thursday 27, followed by “TRAMONTANA” on Friday 28, and “MALT BROWNIE” on Saturday 29. Finally, on the much-anticipated Market Day, Gelato Messina will offer “SWIRLS GET THE GIRLS” and “THIRST TRAP,” promising a sweet finale to this culinary extravaganza.
Leading up to Market Day, several resident venues along James Street will offer exclusive menu pairings, set menus, and tantalizing tastings. Gerard’s Bar, The Green, ESSA, Harveys Bar + Bistro, Jocelyn’s Provisions, LOS, and The Nixon Room will entice foodies with an array of tempting experiences. Champagne menus, pizza parties, DJ performances, cook-ups, seafood long-lunches, limited-edition products, and an exclusive rooftop garden event at The Calile Hotel are just a glimpse of the edible adventures awaiting visitors.
The James St Food + Wine Trail promises to be an unrivalled celebration of culinary excellence, uniting Brisbane’s finestestablishments and showcasing their remarkable talents. As locals and visitors converge on this gastronomic paradise, the vibrant atmosphere, delectable offerings, and lively entertainment will undoubtedly make this event a highlight on the city’s social calendar. With free entry and a diverse range of experiences for all ages, JSFWT encapsulates the very essence of community spirit and the love of food. So mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds for a journey you won’t soon forget.
