Overview
For the past few years, Brisbane's brewery scene has been booming. If you're keen for a freshly made beer straight from the source, there's now a spot serving up just that in most parts of town. But, come May, you'll need to head to a just-announced new precinct in Albion if you'd like to drink brews, then pop into the adjacent fromagerie, then listen to live tunes and wander around farmers markets.
All of the above — plus a pop-up restaurant, patisserie, craft bottle shop, coffee roaster, street food, specialty espresso bar, wine and cocktail bar, events space, and laneway filled with street art — are headed to Craft'd Grounds, which is currently under construction on Collingwood Street. It's taking over a set of industrial and warehouse spaces in the inner north suburb, as well as a century-old timber mill, with the folks behind Albion's existing Collingwood Black Espresso and Bar and The Black Market spearheading the project.
Craft'd Grounds' inspiration: The Grounds of Alexandria in Sydney. Thanks to its laneway and industrial-meets-rustic aesthetic, it's also nodding in both Melbourne and Byron Bay's direction, too, with the design overseen by John Flynn from Conrad Gargett and the precinct's co-founder James Rennell. And, it's set to be big, sprawling over a 2600-square-metre space, 500 square metres of which will be taken up by the brewery.
Render of Craft'd Grounds
Exactly which beer brands will be pouring their wares hasn't yet been revealed, and neither have any further details about the space's other stores — other than Collingwood Black Espresso and Bar and The Black Market, of course. But, when it opens, it's hoped that Craft'd Grounds will become a hefty drawcard with both locals and tourists alike.
"It's about a destination that's humble and gives an appreciation and experience of everything handcrafted, including beer, coffee, modern comfort food, fresh farmers markets, live music, all 'Made in Brisbane' – and importantly, a chance to slow down,
discover and leave everyone who comes with a story to share," said Rennell. "It's about feeling dwarfed and in awe watching the brewer at work, tasting Australia's freshest produce, experiencing the crafts of incredible artisans, and live musicians."
Craft'd Grounds is set to open on Collingwood Street, Albion at a yet-to-be-revealed date in May. We'll update you when exact opening details are announced.
Top image: Google Maps.