mt gravatt Archives - Page 9 of 10

Vapiano in Mt Gravatt Braces for an Overhaul

Vapiano, the famous pizza restaurant with an outlet at the Garden City in Upper Mount Gravatt, is bracing for some changes amid this new normal. The eatery will soon introduce a new ordering system that will give the customers more control of their dining experience.

For the last decade, Vapiano’s stores across Queensland have had a familiar ordering system where diners line up at the food stations and then see the chefs prepare and cook their meals.

The new process will incorporate smartphone technology and QR codes, as well as ditch the need for queueing.

Diners may immediately secure their table once inside Vapiano and then place their orders from their smartphones.

The idea is to keep customers comfortably seated whilst the waitstaff provides the service. They may also use their smartphones to pay for their meals so that no one has to leave the table.

However, customers who come in without smartphones may still place orders at a dedicated but smaller corner in the restaurant, where physical distancing will be observed.

The kitchen’s operation will also be altered to reflect the new ordering system.

Managing director Will Cooke believes that will keep the restaurant more efficient whilst maintaining the quality of its food and service.

Meanwhile, Vapiano will also bring in new tables and lighting to freshen up the ambience. The Brisbane City outlet is the first to make the design changes whilst the ordering system will be introduced at the Garden City outlet in Mt Gravatt before the holidays.

Vapiano serves homemade Italian comfort food like pasta, pizza and salads with meals tailored to the customers’ preference.

“Whether you come in for a cheeky after work cocktail in our bar area, or spend hours enjoying a meal with friends in our restaurant, we pride ourselves on serving only the best made-to-order pizzas, house-made pasta, hand-tossed salads and delicious dolci in a fun, relaxing atmosphere filled with fresh herbs at every table and live olive trees.”

To book a table with a maximum of six diners, visit their reservation page online.

Maa Kinn Authentic Thai Food Reopens In Mt Gravatt With Discounts And A Cause

Dine-in business has restarted for Maa Kinn Bangkok Street Food since mid-May but under the “new normal,” this Upper Mt Gravatt restaurant has been serving up more than just authentic Thai dishes for its patrons.

Maa Kinn is also giving discounts for customers who will choose to shop online and pick up their food from the store on Logan Road in a bid to promote social distancing and no-contact transactions amidst this pandemic.

For July, customers who place orders on their online website and pick the items up themselves will get a 10% discount from the full-priced menu.

The list of food includes a budget-friendly selection of spring rolls, puffs, wontons, curries, stir fry dishes, noodles and noodle soup, and house specials like Som Tum (papaya salad with tomatoes and peanuts), Red Duck Curry with a range of sauces, Kanaa Moo Grob (crispy pork belly with Asian vegetables), and Garlic Prawns.

Photo Credit: Maa Kinn Bangkok Street Food/Facebook

This month, Maa Kinn has also picked Micah Projects as its beneficiary for Charity of the Month. Micah Projects is a not-for-profit organisation that provides support for children and families who have been affected by social injustice.

Customers of Maa Kinn have the option to donate to the cause when they place their orders and it will be matched by the restaurant’s owners.

“Here at Maa Kinn, we believe that charity starts at home,” Maa Kinn’s statement read. “Therefore with the help of our customers, family and friends, we are accepting monetary donations to go towards purchasing dry and canned goods to go into Emergency Relief packs that are given out to individuals and families that are doing it tough during these unprecedented times.”

If you’re keen to support Maa Kinn Bangkok Street Food check their store online or visit their Facebook page for the store’s trading hours.

I have been looking for a great Thai restaurant on the Southside for sometime. There have been a few that are good and I ordered a couple times from them, but still kept looking for a really great one. There have been a couple that have been down right disappointing or they have changed hands. Last night we tried Maa Kinn for the first time, OMG! we have found it, the best Thai food on the Southside. The dishes were packed full of flavour, perfect protein:vege ratio, and we tried a dish we haven’t seen elsewhere, Ginger Stir fry we added prawns….. oh my goodness, it was delicious! My husband isn’t normally a ginger fan, but he was willing to arm wrestle me for the leftovers. Highly recommend Maa Kinn.
Trudy Radenovic, Google Reviews

“I popped in with a friend today for lunch. I had Thai green curry and it was fantastic. The people that served us were lovely – very friendly. If the rest of the food is as nice as what had today I’ll be a regular – thankyou!”
Peter Charles Dominic Shirres, Facebook

Mt Gravatt Kerbside Collection: 4 Simple Ways to Stay Clutter-Free

Here’s your chance to get rid of clutter at home as the next kerbside collection in Mt Gravatt and Mt Gravatt East is set for Monday, the 9th of March 2020. Time to get moving and gather up items the weekend before the scheduled collection.

Take note to bring out only acceptable items, such as sporting equipment, bath and laundry tubs, carpets and rugs, electronic waste, white goods, furniture, small household appliances and wood products less than 1.5 metres in size. If you need to get rid of bottles, glass, mirrors, hazardous wastes and other unacceptable items for kerbside collection day, you can make arrangements with resource recovery centres instead.

Whilst kerbside collection helps reduce the clutter in your home, you can stay clutter-free by adopting these simple ways.

1. Have a proper filing, organisation, and storage system.

Where does all your clutter come from? In most homes, the most common clutter sources are:

Bills, lists and documents
Children’s items
Clothes
Tools (kitchen, gardening, related hardware)
Electronic devices and chargers
Decorative stuff and knickknacks

If you are able to identify the source, you will be able to see what needs a filing, organisation, or storage solution. For instance, if you’ve got piles of paperwork at the kitchen counter, you might need a filing rack in that space to keep documents orderly. If you have gardening items, you might need a console or cabinet in the backyard so that these are not all over the place.

2. Chuck out things you “might” use one day.

Professional organisers have one rule of thumb: give items away if you haven’t been using it for more than a year. So, that bread maker sitting inside its box at the back of your pantry, which you only used once in three years, could be of a better use for someone else. Maybe a relative or a friend will want this unexpected gift.

3. Essential items should have space in your house.

As soon as you walk in your front door, where do you put keys, phones, wallet? Where do you hang your coat, jacket or scarf? These are basic essentials that you always need when you leave the house so these must have an accessible and organised space in your house, such as a table, shelving or cubby hole by the door.

In the same way, your kitchen pantry or cabinet must have a special space for essential ingredients. If you use certain items more often than others, it must be stored and placed where you can easily see and reach out to it, rather than putting these all the way to the back of the storage.

4. Get rid of old items if you bring home a new one.

Cycling through your items regularly greatly reduces the clutter. If you’ve got a new mop, there’s no use to keep the old one since you won’t use it anymore. You also don’t need to dump old items in the garage. Why not have a garage sale or donate your old stuff at tip shops?

Mouthwatering Cinnabon Opens New Brisbane Store in Mt Gravatt

Sugar and spice and everything nice. Southside residents, you’re in for a fantastic Valentine’s Day treat! Cinnabon Australia is opening its second Brisbane store at Westfield Garden City on Friday, the 14th of February 2020.

You can finally grab a fresh ‘bon in the oven at the Cinnabon store on the second level of the shopping centre opposite Stefan as early as 8:00 a.m. The U.S. bakery chain is famous for making a fresh batch of its ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls every half-hour so customers always get ’em hot and soft.

To avoid the long lines on opening day, you may pre-order a CinnaPack online to be picked up at its Westfield Garden City outlet. This pick-up option will be operational any day of the week so you’re free to choose a convenient date beginning 14 Feb.

*Photo Credit: Cinnabon Australia/Facebook*

CinnaPacks come in a box of four or nine (MiniBons) and you can choose from the following flavours:

Cinnabon Classics
Caramel PecanBon
Mixed Cinnabon
ChocoBon

Queensland company Bansai Group is responsible for bringing the famous cinnamon buns to Australia. The company opened its first Brisbane store at the Toombul Shopping Centre in Nundah just before Christmas in 2019. It plans to open 50 more stores all over Australia in the next five years.

As with its first Brisbane store, Cinnabon Westfield Garden City offers coffee, frappes and heaps of sinfully sweet drinks to pair with the food. Check the official site for its trading hours.

Top Christmas Events Happening at Mt Gravatt Plaza

As the days wind down until Christmas, Mt Gravatt Plaza has a few more activities lined up to warm up joy. Feel the spirit of the holiday by visiting this shopping centre on Creek Road.

Here are the Christmas activities you can expect during your visit until the 24th of December 2019.

Kids Christmas Craft

When	10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Until the 21st of Dec 2019
Where	Outside Chatterbox

Bring your kids to Mt Gravatt Plaza for a few hours of fun and enriching crafting activities. The children will be taught to make paper baubles or decorate their own gingerbread at this FREE event. There’s no need to book a slot, so feel free to drop by with your little ones.

Charity Gift Wrapping

When	9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Weekdays) 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Weekends) Until the 22nd of Dec 2019
Where	Outside Coles

Since it’s the season of giving, you can take part in a charity drive by having your Christmas gifts beautifully wrapped in exchange for a gold coin donation. One wrapped present equals one gold coin donation. Proceeds will go to The Lions Club of Greater Mount Gravatt Mansfield Inc.

*Photo Credit: Mt Gravatt Plaza/Facebook*

Gifs with Santa

When	10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily Until the 24 of Dec 2019
Where	Outside Coles

The kids would surely love a Christmas keepsake with Santa Claus so head down to the Santa Booth for a photoshoot with the jolly old man. A digital copy of the moving photos (gifs) and still photos will be emailed to the parents. The children will also get a free photo book.

This is another FREE event and every participant has a chance to win a $200 gift voucher from Mt Gravatt Plaza retailers if they publicly share their gifs on social media. Use the hashtag #mtgravattplaza to be considered for the draw. Winners will be picked on the 24th of Dec 2019.

While you’re there, you may also shop for ingredients for your Christmas Day feast. Mt Gravatt Plaza has two grocery stores, a butcher shop, a seafood market and a bakery.

The centre also provides ample covered parking spaces for Christmas rush shoppers. The stores open at 9:00 a.m.

Mt Gravatt’s Hallowed Grounds Espresso Expands and Revamps for a Better Dining Experience

Hallowed Grounds Espresso in Mt Gravatt is a familiar local hangout that’s usually teeming with people who want their coffee fix and delicious bites. Since the middle of 2019, this cafe on Logan Road has undergone an expansion and revamp with its new look, new menu and new opening hours.

Today, there is plenty of room for dining or relaxing at Hallowed Grounds, including room for locals to bring their precious pooches in for some flavoured treats. Though the classic food choices remain, such as the avocado smash and the great-tasting Elixir coffee, the new menu caters to food adventures that will have patrons coming back.

The newest breakfast special, the Tuscan bowl (polenta, flat mushroom, poached eggs and kale), is perfect for energising your day, whilst its spicy El Camino (minced beef with tomato, eggs, avocado, sour cream and jalapeños) kicks up the heat to satisfy your cravings. Hallowed Grounds serves all-day breakfast fares like pancakes, bacon, cheese and eggs. The lunch menu has heaps of options from sandwiches, pasta, dish-fish taco, Asian fried wonton coleslaw, and steak with fries.

*Photo Credit: Hallowed Grounds Espresso/Facebook*

The counter cabinet has more than just muffins for dinners looking to grab a quick bite. The pastry selection is more diversified with, among other choices, vegan cupcakes, lamingtons, Hummingbird cake, and Moroccan orange and pistachio slices.

*Photo Credit: Hallowed Ground Espresso/Facebook*

Now that Hallowed Grounds is open till late night on weekends, diners can enjoy some drinks with a platter of nibbles. In keeping with the relaxing vibe, live music plays every Friday night featuring some of Brisbane’s talented singers and songwriters.

Hallowed Grounds Espresso’s new opening hours are updated on its Facebook page.

“Had a great experience having brekkie with wife and baby. Friendly staff served us with a smile. Ordered coffee and eggs Benedict in brioche. Both really good. I even ordered a second coffee. The place is very spacious with a back sitting area. We had no trouble finding a place to sit. Can even call in to reserve a spot if you want more certainty. We sat inside near the front so baby can look around at people and watch cars go past outside.”
~ Naveen Warusavithana, Google Reviews

“Congratulation to the extension of this business. Walked in and glad to see the spacious dine-in area. Ordered a flat white and a plain croissant with jam & butter. Needless to say, I took a seat inside (seems the first time to get a chance to sit indoor). Food & beverage came to the table very quick and the coffee is no doubt keeping a consistent standard. Although the croissant is average, it may achieve a higher mark if the service at the counter can be more passionate.”
~ Ronnielui2003, Zomato

“Haven’t been for a while but thought I’d give it a go on the way home. Love the reno & additional seating. Still great coffee and my avo on toast didn’t disappoint. Will be back.”
~ Lisa Cooke, Facebook

East Meets West for Brekky at Little Glass Room Espresso Bar in Mt Gravatt

Do you enjoy a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine for breakfast? If you’re hankering for a different flair, Little Glass Room Espresso Bar in Logan Road, Mt Gravatt is where east meets west and you will not be disappointed about starting your day at this restaurant.

Little Glass Room Espresso Bar opened its doors in the middle of 2019 to offer diners an extensive breakfast, brunch and lunch menu, where they can have both Asian or Western food or a combination of both. The idea was borne out of its owners’ frustration on breakfast food after experiencing a lack of choices from other cafes in Mt Gravatt and the nearby suburbs. The owners, by the way, are behind the community favourite and award-winning Modern Thai restaurant next door.

This foodie spot serves an all-day breakfast menu featuring the classics like eggs benny with homemade sauce or avocado smash. The standout breakfast meal, however, is a delicious bowl of Forbidden Rice (black rice pudding with coconut cream and in-season fruits) that is richly satisfying and gives all the energy you need for the day.

*Photo Credit: Little Glass Room Espresso Bar/Facebook*

On the other hand, lunch selections at this Thai-Western cafe include soft shell crab burgers on brioche buns, delightful stir-fried Thai rice noodles, healthy chicken tom yum and a reliable Pad Thai.

Little Glass Room Espresso Bar has quite an inviting vibe. When you step into the restaurant, you’ll get a sense of calm and peace, which would be perfect if you’d like to enjoy your meals amidst a quiet atmosphere.

Open at 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily, except Monday, Little Glass Room Espresso Bar also serves The Cat’s Pyjamas coffee blends from Seven Miles, a selection of tea, lattes, juices, Thai iced coffee, and fresh coconut juice. The establishment is also dog-friendly, with an outdoor deck area for lounging and hanging out.

“We just had brunch here today and would highly recommend this place. It is dog-friendly and we were able to take our foster dog Zoe for her first outing to this cafe. The staff was extremely friendly and very accommodating as we had two kids and a giant dog with us!! It has been a while since I have received such genuine and amazing service. The food was amazing as well!! 5 stars for this place and take your woofstars with you too so they can enjoy an outing as well.”
~ Nameeta Prakash, Facebook

“Great selection and a generous portion of Thai plus little French-influenced food is fab. The deco was good, staff was very attentive and polite. I will definitely return and will proudly recommend to like-minded diners. Enjoy.”
~ WH C, Google Reviews

“Atmosphere and decor are lovely. Staff is excellent very attentive and most professional. But most importantly the food is fantastic kudos to the chef very impressed, clean fresh and dynamic food. We would highly recommend the Little Glass Room. We will return.”
~ Dizzyr32, Trip Advisor

Cinnabon Rolls In Mt Gravatt, 3 Other Brisbane Sites

American bakery chain store Cinnabon, best known for its cinnamon rolls, is opening its first four sites in Brisbane. The Mt Gravatt outlet is reportedly set to begin trading in January 2020 at Westfield Garden City on Kessels Road.

Bansal Group, operated by a Queensland family company, is bringing the franchise Down Under by rolling out its first four outlets in Brisbane’s north, south and west. Aside from Westfield Garden City, Cinnabon Australia stores will also rise at Nundah’s Toombul Shopping Center, Westfield Chermside and Mt Ommaney Centre.

Cinnabon Australia’s Facebook Page confirmed the bakery’s opening in Nundah before Christmas and the Mt Gravatt outlet by January.

Most of these Cinnabon Australia sites will most likely be kiosks vacated by other food outlets. The franchise takes pride in its reputation as a quick-service restaurant that produces fresh baked goods in-house every 30 minutes.

In January 2019, Bansal Group announced that it will be “opening multiple stores in Brisbane” by the end of the year. According to reports, the company quietly posted several job ads online with “multiple positions available” to prepare for its launch.

Bansal Group has massive plans to set up 50 stores across the country for the next five years. Company director Gaurav Bansal said that there is a strong market for the famous cinnamon rolls amidst the deluge of doughnuts and muffin stores in Australia.

Immerse Yourself in All Things Japan at Matsuri Brisbane in Mt Gravatt

Last year’s inaugural Japanese festival in Mt Gravatt, Matsuri Brisbane, was such a success that it’s returning for a second time. Here’s your chance to immerse and experience all things Japan and celebrate the rich diversity and multiculturalism of the community.

Set for Saturday, the 7th of Sept. 2019, Matsuri Brisbane, which is roughly translated as “a festival in Brisbane,” is happening at the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds on Logan Road. Hosted by the Brisbane Seinendan, this celebration will be on from 12:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

It won’t be a party without the food and Matsuri Brisbane will be a showcase of delicious Japanese delights, street food, supermarket snacks and alcoholic drinks. Local creatives will also be selling various Japanese inspired arts and crafts.

*Photo Credit: Matsuri Brisabane/Facebook*

The showgrounds will be divided into different sections for cultural activities. If you’d like to participate, you can learn the basics of Japanese calligraphy or the art of flower arranging (Ikebana), or compete in the Yukata contest to see who can dress up in a Kimono the fastest.

Traditional Japanese games played by the immigrants as youngsters will also be featured in the sideshow attractions. However, if you’d just like to be a spectator, you can watch the Martial Arts demonstrations or the performances on stage.

“We expected many non-Japanese people would be interested in Matsuri, but many more people than we expected showed up,” Takayoshi Momose of Brisbane Seinendan, who led the organisation of last year’s event, said.

“We are trying to make a solid Japanese community, which can be a strong support for our next generation,” he added.

“Also, we want to introduce Japanese culture to people in Australia.”

Matsuri Brisbane is on its way to becoming the biggest Japanese festival in Brisbane. This event requires no entrance fees and it’s open anyone who would love to know more about the culture of Japan.

Greek Orthodox Southside Parish to Hold Cent Auction in Mt Gravatt

Have you ever been to a cent auction? Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been to a cent auction before, you’ll get the chance to enjoy this event in Mt Gravatt this August.

On Saturday, the 31st of Aug 2019, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Greek Orthodox Southside Parish on Creek Road is hosting a cent auction from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For $10, guests will be entitled to one sheet to participate in the auction and they may also partake in afternoon tea and Baklava.

*Photo Credit: Greek Orthodox Southside Parish/Facebook*

In a cent auction, you bid using tickets found on your sheet. This paper bears a stub with your assigned number. If you like an item at the auction, just take out a stub from your sheet and put this in the box or bucket. After everyone has made their bids, a stub will be drawn from those boxes or buckets to determine the winner of the item for bidding.

If you really want that item, you can put as many stubs as you want to increase your chances of winning.

A cent auction is a great way to raise funds, as well as a wonderful activity to engage the community.

To join the event in Mt Gravatt, book ahead to be counted for the catering by phoning or texting Vikki at 0408 725 658.