Things are heating up at Howard Smith Wharves, the eating and drinking precinct along the Brisbane River that will see its second tenant open its doors next month. Mr Percival’s, the centrepiece of the development, is modelled on European beach clubs and will offer a seafood-heavy menu overseen by Damien Styles, announced as head chef today. Styles was most recently at starred Burleigh Heads restaurant The Fish House, but his CV also includes Berardo’s in Noosa and Melbourne’s Taxi Dining Room.
“I’m excited to be part of what I see as the most amazing development in the hospitality industry in Brisbane,” Styles says. “Being from Brisbane originally, this role is like a homecoming for me as well.”
Styles’s skill with seafood will be on full display at Mr Percival’s. The chef intends to use catch from Moreton Bay and the east coast of Australia for his menus. While details are still under wraps, snacks include lobster rolls, whipped cod roe with warm baguette and zucchini fritters.
Artist’s impression of the Howard Smith Wharves development
Inspired by the beach clubs of Europe, Mr Percival’s spans 200sqm, includes an overwater deck and features interiors by Anna Spiro, who’s also responsible for the distinctive look of Halcyon House in northern NSW. For her latest project, the designer has anchored the indoor-outdoor space with a large octagonal bar featuring brass detailing and a terracotta-coloured marble top. Salmon pink umbrellas on the deck, retro upholstery on the outdoor furniture and Moroccan-style zellige tiles on the floor complete the look.
The development of Howard Smith Wharves has been in the works for several years and, when complete, will span 3.4 hectares and include eight dining venues. Among them is Sydney restaurateur Jordan Barthelmess’ first restaurant in the city, Greca, a Cantonese eatery from Andrew and Jaimee Baturo (also behind The Gresham), a Brisbane outpost of popular izakaya Toko, as well as a brewery, coffee roaster and bakery. A 164-room Art Series Hotel is also slated to open.
Sounds like the place to be this summer.
Mr Percival’s, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary Street Brisbane, Qld, howardsmithwarves.com
