Brisbane just got a new dining gem — and it’s bringing back the charm of old Australia. Marlowe A Classic Bistro, the latest venue from the well-known Fanda Group (behind Southside, Central, Rick Shores, and Norté), has opened its doors on Fish Lane. This elegant bistro is built inside a heritage-listed 1938 art deco apartment block, giving it a warm, homely, and slightly quirky vibe that instantly stands out.
Walking into Marlowe feels like stepping back in time — and into someone’s cosy home. The space features cream walls, timber furniture, marble accents, and antique touches like vintage silverware, eclectic lamps, and sunrooms. According to co-owner David Flynn, the goal was to make guests feel wand just a little nostalgic — like visiting your nan’s house, but
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A Menu Inspired by the Past
Marlowe’s kitchen is led by co-owner and chef Ollie Hansford, known for his work at Siffredi’s Spaghetti Bar, Rita’s in Teneriffe, and Stokehouse. He has created a menu inspired by 1950s and 1960s Australian dining, pulling recipes and ideas from old cookbooks like The Lost Recipes by Ross Dobson.
Expect to see Aussie classics with a refined twist, such as:
- Cheddar scones with chicken pâté
- Curried crab brioche
- Prawn cocktail tartlets
- Smoked cheese soufflé
- Clam and saffron risotto
Mains are cooked over a woodfired hearth, delivering rich flavours in dishes like spiced pork chop with caramelised apple, stuffed chicken breast with mushrooms and sherry sauce, and a standout coral trout Wellington with chive butter sauce.
Signature highlights already making waves include:
- A rich duck pie with jus and radicchio jam
- Cheesy garlic bread made from Lune croissant dough
- The Marlowe Mixed Grill featuring Wagyu sirloin, lamb cutlets, beef tongue skewer, and Cumberland pork sausage
Local Produce and All-Aussie Drinks
Hansford has gone the extra mile to source ingredients from small, local producers across South East Queensland — including Joyce’s Gold Heritage Poultry, Elbow Valley Beef Wagyu, and Cherax Park yabbies.
On the drinks front, group beverage director Peter Marchant has curated a wine list that’s entirely Australian (except for French champagne). It blends legendary names like Rockford, Henschke, and Penfolds with small boutique wineries, plus an exciting range of cocktails made using local spirits like Loborn amaro from Mount Tamborine.
Visit Marlowe on Fish Lane
Marlowe officially opens to the public on Tuesday, September 23, and bookings are now open online. Whether you’re craving classic Aussie flavours with a creative twist or simply want to soak up the charming retro vibes, Marlowe promises a dining experience like no other in Brisbane.
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Marlowe A Classic Bistro on Fish Lane brings nostalgic Aussie flavours to Brisbane in a cosy 1938 heritage art deco setting.