While they say the global financial market is declining for a double dip, there is another ‘market’ closer to home where things have been looking up.  What am I talking about?  Malt - the newest establishment on Market Street, of course.  Since opening in mid 2011, this bar and restaurant has been giving corporates a great excuse to escape from the hubbub of Eagle Street’s usual hotspots. ...

Just around the corner from Waterfront Place is this hidden gem of a venue.  Enter this iconic heritage building and behold - a luxury three level bar and dining experience comprised of a bar, a restaurant and a cellar for private events.  Each level has its own distinct feel to it but the overall atmosphere is intimate and exudes old world glamour.

On the ground level is a charmingly sophisticated bar which resembles an exclusive gentleman's speakeasy of yesteryear.  Think exposed brick walls, a solid oak bar and eloquent dim lighting.  I often like to nestle myself here for a serious cocktail (or two) after having a rough day in the office.  Ladies, try the Singapore Sling or the French Collective.  Gentlemen can opt for an Old Fashioned or Cuban Lace for a more masculine looking cocktail.  I'll admit the crowd here is slightly older than other Eagle Street waterholes, but its a great place to start with some classy drinks before moving on to a dirty night at Fridays.

After easing up with a few drinks at the bar, you can head upstairs to the ‘Attic’ for dinner.  The restaurant on the third level boasts a classic menu with a creative and confident twist.  Based on my last interlude here, I would highly recommend the pan seared duck for the main course.  It was tender and succulent thanks to a perfectly cooked breast and a good choice of accompaniments.  The wine list is also intriguing and shows some imagination.  Our little posse of suits opted for a bottle of the 'Snake Charmer' shiraz (and we ordered a second bottle soon enough).  Off the plate, we were impressed with the polished service and the ambient tunes from the piano man.  Oh and one other thing - be sure to admire the contemporary artwork that is sure to spark conversation at the dinner table.  ('Contemporary' being a code word for erotic).

All in all, if restaurants were stocks then I would definitely be investing in this one.  Check it out.

Address: 28 Market Street, Brisbane
Phone: 3236 4855
Website: http://maltdining.com.au/
Opening hours:
Monday to Friday 11:30am - Midnight
Saturday 5:30pm to Midnight
Sunday closed