As one of the founding members of Woolloongabba’s Logan Rd dining precinct, Pearl Café has become a Brisbane institution. The charm and warmth of the heritage building endures with its exposed brick walls, timber floorboards and bentwood chairs; while the staff adds to the homey atmosphere – friendly, conscientious and helpful.

Owner Manita Arnold is a winemaker, so – unsurprisingly, the glass and bottle offering is both approachable and interesting, featuring familiar styles from some lesser known Australian and international vineyards.

But it’s still the food that triumphs. Gnocchi, for example, is like a bowl of little kisses – coated in a lemon-scented cream that melts in the mouth, alongside crisp artichoke for acidity and al dente zucchini halves. While an expertly executed saffron and fennel risotto dotted with peas forms a generous bed for a crisp-skinned fillet of yellowtail kingfish.

Sides are also worth a look, as they may include carrots, which have their sweetness amplified by roasting in a honey glaze and contrasted by velvety labneh, with traditional pairings of pinenuts and sultanas making them more of a satisfying starter than a side. This is comfort food that will indeed please in a cosy package.

Must-eat dish: Gnocchi with lemon cream
Instagram: @pearl.est.2007