Nick Pinn, Co-Owner, Aquitaine Brasserie
A pair of thongs, sunshine, beer and good music ...
With two successful restaurants boasting menus of tantalising flavours, it’s surprising to discover it was the liquor side of things that originally drew Nick Pinn to the hospitality industry. While studying hospitality management, Nick initially thought he’d go down the beverage route, opening his own bar or club. But food lured him in, resulting in the opening of Malt Dining in Brisbane City and Aquitaine Brasserie at River Quay. Having worked in hospitality on and off for 20 years now, Nick is well-versed in what makes a dining experience a memorable one. The French-inspired Aquitaine Brasserie may have only opened in October, but Nick already has another idea burgeoning in the back of his mind – a new venture that this time leans a little more towards the liquid. The Weekend Edition caught up with Nick to chat weekend essentials.
How do you like to start your weekend?
As late as possible.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
Jump on the pushbike and head for the hills.
How do you like to unwind?
Crack open a bottle of champagne and make homemade hamburgers with my wife.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
A pair of thongs, sunshine, beer and good music.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Go for a walk along the river.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
It being one week closer to Christmas.
What are you reading at the moment?
My wife’s mind and I am getting good at it.
What inspires you?
Hard-working, unselfish people.
What was your childhood dream?
To play rugby for the British Lions.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Playing my part in creating my beautiful daughter, Matilda Jayne.
What is success to you?
Creating a lifestyle that will allow you to live the way you want to live, without restrictions.
What are your words of wisdom?
Never ask someone to do something you are not prepared to do yourself.
Only a local would know … If you ride you bike with your helmet on your handlebars, your brain probably isn’t worth saving anyway.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … Sip Cafe, Teneriffe
Relax … Kingscliff, NSW
Dine … Mum’s house
Indulge … Krissy’s caramel slice
Shop … Chapel Street, Melbourne
Catch-up … Claret House, Teneriffe
Be inspired … On the deck with my dad and a cold beer
