Justin De Beer is no stranger to the Brisbane bar scene, having managed some of the River City’s best drinking venues over the years, Laruche included. But now De Beer has turned his hand to ownership, launching his own multi-level bar in the former site of the now defunct Chester Street Bakery.

The clandestine nook will become home to Hello Gorgeous, a casual speakeasy designed around lazy afternoons and evenings spent drinking in the sun. “[It’s] for everyone to just relax, enjoy great food and wine, and have fun,” De Beer says of his bar’s intentions.

Currently in the midst of construction, the bar will launch in late January. Hello Gorgeous has already promised thirsty locals the opportunity to sip on one of 40 different wines, alongside a handful of Champagnes and sparkling options. The cocktails here will rotate seasonally and there will be an intriguing ‘temperant’ low-alcohol section with drinks designed to take it easy on both the head and wallet.

As for the space itself, only the shell of the Chester Street Bakery remains. Bea Berry Designs has taken charge, focusing on ‘luxe sophistication’ throughout. The deck out front has been adorned with tropical plants and bar tables, while indoors is a hub of teal banquettes, curved arches and pastel pink tiling.

Those after a bite to eat will find solace in a menu designed by head chef Matthew Wrench. Designed to partner with the bar’s array of alcoholic drops, the menu ranges from share plates to heartier mains and is divided into the sections of Raw, From The Garden, Fish and Crustacean, Meat, Share Boards and Sweets. But it’s the sides here that really sing, think indulgent plates of roasted bone marrow accompanied by sourdough crisps.

Hello Gorgeous
32A Chester Street, Newstead
hellogorgeousbar.com.au