Blackbird Bar & Grill has transformed the space of the old Queensland Rugby Club into a venue inspired by the bygones era of 1920’s prohibition, with the grill the major feature. Kudos to them for laying their talons on one of the premium spots along the Brisbane riverside. With a massive 1,000 square meters of space, the site has panoramic views of the Brisbane River and our iconic Story Bridge. Celebrated hospitality body, the Ghanem Group – famous for Byblos Portside and Melbourne, the 5th Element and Saj & Grill at South Bank – are certainly venturing into what seems to be a testing esplanade for Brisbane’s restaurateurs. The Ghanem Group is not shy of waterfronts or precinct competition and is prepared to “wow” Brisbane.
Esteemed two-hatted chef Jake Nicolson has curated the menu, where steak and seafood will be particular features. Head sommelier Penny Grant has swooped in from Stokehouse Melbourne, working closely with Chef Jake to make sure the wine list is streamlined to the fare. For the nocturnal eaters in the wee hours, a special grazing menu has been formed where tippler king Aaron Clark, has gone to great lengths to pair the cocktail list to the cuisine. And with the 1920s theme, expect the spirits to pack a punch. Aaron has also flown above and beyond with the cocktail team, hand-selecting the best in Brisbane from rockstar bartenders Simon Wade to Chris Denman.
To fit right into Blackbird as if you belong there, here are our tips:
Look famous. Be legendary. Appear complex. Act easy.
You were only waiting for this moment to arise.
