Being a loyal New Farm resident, I usually insist on making my friends schedule our social events around the endless supply of trendy establishments in Teneriffe, Fortitude Valley and New Farm.  But lately I have made a few discoveries in the Woolloongabba and East Brisbane precincts that are worthy of travelling across town for.  The Crosstown Eating House is a boisterous bar and restaurant that I accidentally stumbled upon one Sunday brunch after being refused a table at Pearl Cafe.  Admittedly I spent the majority of brunch cursing Pearl for not squeezing in a table for us, although in hindsight it was a blessing in disguise.  Ever since that fateful morning, The Crosstown has become a regular favourite of mine for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks.  ...  

Set in a 1920s brick building in the antique strip of Woolloongabba, The Crosstown is a quaint and laid-back dining destination that caters for every culinary occasion of the day.  The breakfast menu has a range of traditional fare alongside some eccentric options for those who feel particularly adventurous in the morning.  I always insist on ordering the house smoked ocean trout with potato hash and asparagus.  The three key ingredients of this simple dish blend delightfully together with watercress, herbed sour cream and a squeeze of lemon.  I am also obsessed with potato hash cakes which is the other compelling reason for my menu choice.  

As for lunch and dinner, the restaurant features a selection of mouthwatering shared starters and classic bistro style mains.  The menu changes seasonally but in my opinion, you really can't go past ordering the famous sticky pork spare ribs or the signature meatballs.  Whatever meal you dine at The Crosstown for, expect to be blown away by the serious deliciousness of the deceptively simple nosh being served.  And whichever side of Brisbane you live in, your meal will undoubtedly be well worth 'crossing town' for.

The Crosstown Eating House
Address: 23 Logan Road, Woolloongabba
Phone: (07) 3162 3839
Website: http://www.thecrosstown.com.au/