The Chelsea Bistro @ The Barracks

Aug 2, 2012 by lisa @ tofudie

In 2008 the heritage listed barracks on Petrie Terrace underwent a major facelift.  The site which was a gaol in the mid 1800’s, then later the Brisbane Police Depot is an historic landmark of Brisbane which now houses an array of restaurants, cafes, specialty stores and a cinema.  There is one café in particular that I just can’t keep away from, the Chelsea Bistro.

Breakfast at the Chelsea is quickly becoming one of my favourite weekend pastimes.  This classy little bistro open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, is the perfect place to spend a lazy Sunday morning.  Customers can enjoy an espresso and lose themselves in a good book (there is a great collection available in-house), dine from the sophisticated menu or just sit at the bar and read the paper.  On cold mornings you can still enjoy alfresco dining wrapped in a cosy blanket or under the warmth of the large outdoor heaters.

The furnishings are modern and elegant and large mirrors create a very spacious feeling in a relatively small area.  Crystal chandeliers hang from the ceiling and polished timber furnishings create a warm atmosphere, while the incredibly friendly wait staff add to the café’s charm.

The menu changes seasonally, incorporating the freshest produce available.  There are a number of vegetarian options available however the chef is very flexible, so if none of these options take your fancy, just ask the waiter for some more options.  On my first visit to the Chelsea, the very helpful waiter told me I could order anything on the menu and the chef would make it veggie friendly.  The potato hash cake, poached eggs and marinated feta are all musts, but the star of the show is the carrot jam which is available as a side for only $2.  This gorgeous, sweet and savoury jam is what first drew me to the Chelsea following a friend’s recommendation and now I can’t get enough.