It takes about nine minutes to drive from Milton to the Pullman Hotel at the corner of Roma and Ann Streets, where a new restaurant, Goldfinch, opened on 2018 Boxing Day.
This roomy and bright new hangout at the heart of Brisbane CBD might remind patrons of the Hamptons, the favourite summer destination of affluent Americans in New York. With its sprawling windows, bi-fold doors and hanging plants, Goldfinch offers guests a relaxing place to wine and dine.
Goldfinch is both a cafe and a restaurant that serves Mediterranean comfort food with a dash of Pacific fusion. Open from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., head chef Gary Howieson serves dishes with familiar home-cooked goodness using healthy and fresh ingredients, much to the indulgence of the guests.
Initial reviews of the newly-opened restaurant are largely positive, averaging a rating of 3.8 out of 4 stars on ResDiary. Diners evaluated Goldfinch for its food and drink, service, atmosphere, and value for money.
“The new renovation is bright n refreshing.
~ Paula, 4 ½ starsMenu is similar to before with some new additions. We all have an enjoyable dinner.”
“Food was of high quality and serves were extremely generous. We ordered too much…”
~ Gordon, 4 ½ stars.
The hotel used to be known as Crest International, the former stomping ground of VIPs in the ’70s. In those days, celebrities and dignitaries frequented the hotel’s restaurant and bar, Goldfish.
It’s no coincidence that Goldfinch sounds a lot like Goldfish. Hotel managing director Michael Daviss said that they chose a similar-sounding name so Brisbane locals, both young and old, can create new memories in this special venue.
Daviss wants Goldfinch to be the ultimate meeting place for the locals. Serving lunch and dinner for groups of families or friends, the restaurant is also an ideal business meeting place. Elixir, a Brisbane roastery, provides the coffee for Goldfinch.