Frankie's Food Hall

Overview

The south end of Ann Street has scored a new precinct, turning the site of the old Brisbane Fruit and Produce Exchange into $860-million development Heritage Lanes. And, as well as 35 levels of offices — plus Brisbane CBD's first free basketball and handball court by the end of 2023 — the space is home to a range of cafes and eateries. The latest: Frankie's Food Hall.

Taking its cues from Europe, this weekday breakfast, brunch and lunch spot is a sandwich diner and deli, going heavy on fillings between two pieces of bread. It also doubles as a carvery, serving up roast rolls aplenty. That means welcomely embracing a food-precinct staple that's nowhere near as common as it was decades ago but still should be, because who doesn't want a roast for their midday meal whenever the craving hits?

Open 6am–3pm Monday–Friday, Frankie's Food Hall can seat 40 whether you're after a sanga, bagel or a burger from the curated menu. One highlight: a smoked salmon bagel layered with cucumber, tomato, rocket and cream cheese. You can also make your own sandwiches and salads, and pair them with coffee, smoothies and specialty cordials.

The breakfast range includes a Croatian breakfast featuring smoked cevapi, which isn't just Frankie's signature way to start the day — it's a nod to the diner's namesake. The venue hails from father-daughter duo Bill and Eleni Pippos, formerly of Fruits of Eden and Eleni's Gourmet Deli at Toombul Shopping Centre, and takes its moniker from Eleni's son, who has dual Croatian and Greek heritage.

Greek pastries are on the menu as well, and so is a curated grocery selection heroing the diner's favourite suppliers.

Frankie's Food Hall joins Heritage Lanes' culinary lineup alongside coffee spots Public Cafe and Espresso Engine, all-day bistro Gather, bottle shop and specialist whisky store Malt Trader, and gourmet food go-to Mumbleberry.