Every Tuesday, I take one of my team out to lunch for a monthly catch-up. We’re all creatures of habit, so it’s a pretty standard rotation of Ribs & Burgers, Nodo, Cheeky Poke or James Street Sushi (can you guess who picks what?).
I’m always open to new suggestions, but I do prefer it when lunch is an actual meal – unfortunately for me, I predict a number of açai bowls, pizza and for the really delusional team members – gelato for lunch (I’m referring to Lou, we’re married so I can say this).
That having been said, it’s exciting to see the tenancies at Little Lane, New Farm’s cool micro-precinct, fill up with a range of venues that offer something for everyone!
I promise, I will get to the (very exciting) properties shortly, but I simply can’t miss giving one of Brisbane’s chicest new dining destinations a mention.
We did not make it to midnight on New Year’s Eve, but we did make a spontaneous early booking at The French Exit for dinner and enjoyed a really lovely evening. The beautiful heritage facade reveals a Parisian bistro inspired venue unlike anything Brisbane has seen before, with an exquisite menu to match.
Anyday’s ability to marry incredible flavours with a signature touch, interiors by some of the country’s most sought-after interiors designers (Tamsin Johnson, in this case), and service that is attentive but unpretentious, place this venue in a league of its own. Do yourself a favour and put this restaurant at the top of your 2026 list!
In terms of your property list, 420/88 Macquarie Street should be at the very top of yours, especially if you are on the lookout for a large scale apartment! Oversized windows frame city views in the distance, and inside the apartment, a renovation of impressive scale awaits.
Defined by generous proportions, this apartment spans 207 SQM across two levels, with natural light pouring through original sash windows and skylights, illuminating a space where original heritage features meet modern, bespoke craftsmanship.
On the lower level, a vast open-plan entertaining space, versatile multipurpose room and two secondary bedrooms await. Above, an enclosed mezzanine reveals a sprawling master wing, offering exceptional separation and privacy.
The emphasis on materiality throughout the residence is evident in the selection of striking marble, elegant cabinetry, considered hardware and integrated European appliances. We will be holding a pre-market viewing tomorrow from 10.40 AM -11.10 AM. Don’t miss the chance to view this exceptional property before we launch the campaign.
We’ll be at the Dakota Woolstore for the latter half of our day tomorrow, so if you’re planning on sticking with us, you’ll be glad to hear that Kin are back (it was a rough week before they reopened after a short break on Thursday!) and their outdoor seating looks better than ever! Together with our wonderful neighbours at Design & Co, they are subtly redesigning their interiors and we cannot wait to see what they come up with!
We’ll be at 212/88 Macquarie Street at 10.40 AM as well, a one bedroom with a one-of-a-kind renovation focussing on reclaimed local timber and inspired MCM touches.
Our last open home of the day will run from 11.20 AM at 223/88 Macquarie Street – a generous three bedroom apartment on the quiet back of the building, with a spacious, sheltered balcony, perfect for the balmy evenings we’ve had recently!
If you (like me) need caffeine earlier in the day, Cult is the perfect new spot on Commercial Road to grab a coffee, and their menu certainly lives up to the name. Think all day breakfast, thick sangas, canned speciality matchas and of course, coffee.
From there, it’s a short stroll to our first open homes of the day – a one minute walk around the corner to 58/70 Vernon Terrace to be precise, and only a little bit further to 68/36 Vernon Terrace at 9.00 AM.
You’ll also be in the perfect spot to come through 143/53 Vernon Terrace and 152/53 Vernon Terrace at 9.50 AM. If you need around round of coffees, Vinty Bean in the Mactaggarts Woolstore is my go-to for a takeaway double espresso, and Sippy Tom across the road have a mean brunch menu if you’re starting to get hungry!
That’s a wrap on the first Percival Press of 2026 – if this was your first week back on the tools, congratulations, you made it! If you’re back on deck on Monday, may your inbox and calendar be kind to you as you get back into the swing of things!
Talk soon,
Ben
