Did you know that Josie North, a popular breakfast and brunch place at the Clements Arcade in Toowong is now operating on extended hours three nights a week as a wine bar?
Matt Roggenkamp, the owner of Josie North, has introduced the wine bar concept to his specialty-coffee destination after realising that Toowong was missing such pleasure. In fact, a customer once kidded Roggenkamp that he should host wine nights at the coffee shop.
From Thursday to Saturday, the coffee shop opens late to serve vino from small-scale producers in Australia, France, and Italy. At least six bottles are on regular rotation and can be ordered by the glass, like Fistful of Flowers Vermentino from Momento Mori or Bloody Hill shiraz from Mayer.
Once in a while, however, the wine list will have rare bottles for returning diners who may be on the lookout for something new.
As for the food, the wine bar offers a small selection on the menu, such as ‘nduja toast with tomato and basil oil, burrata with broad bean and herbs, or the chicken cotoletta with Italian slaw and truffle hot sauce. Though short on choices, these flavourful food go well with the wine list.
Josie North’s layout and seating arrangements remain the same for wine nights, except with dimmer lights and louder relaxing music. Though coffee is still its star product, the after-dark crowd has embraced this refreshing change so far.
Follow Josie North on Facebook for updates.
“Love this Cafe. A bit hidden away in the back of an arcade type alley so can easily miss it, but the coffee they serve here is always high quality. Service is impeccable.”
James Cameron
“A must try if you’re in the area! The customer service was exceptional, as was the iced oat latte and avocado smash! Will definitely be back!”
Jack Smith
“A nice little spot for speciality coffee and a quick catch up. Had a share serving of the filter coffee with a friend. Would recommend sitting inside on very sunny days as the outside/walkway seating can get fairly warm from the skylights.”
Anna