Overview
Brisbane's dining scene has been on a mighty upward trajectory in recent years, with scores of forward-thinking restaurant, cafe and bar openings ensuring the city's food culture competes with the country's best. At the forefront of this momentum is the Tassis Group, which has just unveiled Aunty, the 12th restaurant in its impressive portfolio, joining the likes of Rich & Rare, Mulga Bill's, Stilts, Longwang and Pompette.
Set to launch amid Fortitude Valley's vibrant James Street precinct in the second half of 2025, guests can expect high-quality, but approachable, modern-Asian cuisine. Balancing the rich culinary traditions of Cantonese flavours with classic techniques and contemporary flair, those familiar with the Tassis Group's approach should anticipate another distinctive dining destination.
"Fortitude Valley has this incredible energy and diversity that perfectly matches what we want to achieve with Aunty," says Tassis Group founder Michael Tassis. "We've been searching for the perfect location to showcase our modern take on Cantonese-inspired Asian cuisine for almost two years, so when the Wandoo Street space in Fortitude Valley became available, it was a no-brainer."
Aunty's new digs are in the former home of City Winery, just one street over from Fatcow on James Street, another Tassis-led restaurant. That makes life simple for incoming Aunty Head Chef Salvatore de Ponte, who brings 15 years of experience in top-notch kitchens across Australia, Asia, Italy and the UK, including as the former Fatcow sous chef. The menu is yet to be revealed, but expect Asian classics and innovative interpretations, complemented by banquet-style dining.
"Salvatore's approach to Cantonese-inspired cooking is both respectful and revolutionary," says Tassis. "He understands that great food is about more than just ingredients. It's about technique, timing, and an almost spiritual connection to the cooking process."
Like the cuisine, the restaurant's design is also highly considered. Overseen by longtime Tassis Group collaborators Clui and creative agency Allo Creative, Aunty will resonate with moody interiors and modular dining zones. Plus, the design will pay respect to traditional Cantonese teahouses, while adding modern flourishes that speak to Brisbane's evolving dining scene.
Aunty is expected to open at 11 Wandoo Street, Fortitude Valley in the second half of 2025. Head to the website for more information.
Images: Mitch Fresta.