It’s been two long years since Andrew McConnell and Jo McGann announced that Supernormal would be coming to Brisbane and now, at long last, the doors are about to open.

Coming July 23, the acclaimed Asian-influenced Melbourne favourite will bring the familiar bones of Supernormal to the riverfront of Brisbane, however, this counterpart will lean into the Brissy landscape, both literally and figuratively.

Utilising ingredients and produce from close to the source, Supernormal Brisbane is an homage to southeast Queensland produce, climate and lifestyle. The menu shares its lineage with Supernormal Melbourne – snacks, a raw bar and entrées to start, dumplings, mains and large dishes designed to share – however dishes like freshly caught coral trout from nearby tropical waters, Moreton Bay bugs, and whole mud crabs unabashedly fly the Queensland colours.

Related story: Brisbane welcomes Bar Miette, an all-day cafe and restaurant by Andrew McConnell

McConnell is raring to go, experimenting with the best of the indigenous produce and his signature blend of Tokyo, Shanghai, Seoul and Hong Kong. “As a chef it has always been my aim to offer experiences that are highly reflective of their time and place,” says McConnell.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have created – it feels very at home to me in this location and reflects many of the things I know and love about Brisbane – the nuanced hues of the landscape, the warm climate, the abundance of produce grown on the doorstep.”

A pan-Asian globetrot lands on the menu, with highlights of sticky pork rib dumplings; ginger and prawn dumplings; baked abalone pastries; whole steamed coral trout with brown butter and lime dashi; Szechuan and yellow chilli poached Moreton Bay bugs; hand-rolled Shanxi noodles; and whole mud crab with black pepper sauce.

While true to local works, some Supernormal favourites will be migrating north. The famous salt-cured, twice-cooked crispy duck will feature at Supernormal Brisbane, as will McConnell’s much-loved New England lobster rolls.

The physical space also adapts to the tropical surrounds. Layers of natural tones with raw materials create the restaurant’s foundation, and architect-designers Vince Alafaci and Caroline Choker have hand-selected works by local and international artists. Generous and curvacious banquet seating breaks the 150-seat space into intimate zones, and vaulted ceilings and soaring glass windows bring the outdoors in.

Above the main dining room you’ll find a private dining area, the Bridge Room, which caters to up to 50 guests, and provides unparalleled views of the iconic Story Bridge, mirroring the earthy tones of the primary restaurant space.

Related story: Take it outside to Brisbane’s best outdoor bars

Located on the riverfront at 443 Queen Street, entry to Supernormal is via the river boardwalk, from Queen Street taking the stairs, or via the lift down to the boardwalk from recently opened Bar Miette.

When is Supernormal Brisbane open?

Get ready, Supernormal Brisbane is officially open on July 23. Supernormal will be open seven days a week from midday until 11pm with the kitchen open
throughout.

Supernormal Brisbane is located at 443 Queen St, Brisbane City. For more details and to book, head to the website.

Related story: 6 ‘Chinese-ish’ recipes for a modern Asian-fusion feast