When pinpointing the ideal destination to build a new retail precinct from scratch, there are a few factors one needs to consider. At the top of the priority list sits location, visibility, ease of access and a built-in market base – all factors that help gauge the viability of any potential project. For the team behind Queensland-based property development group Pointcorp, the decision to erect a brand-new retail hub in the heart of Albion was a no-brainer. The five-way intersection bridging Sandgate Road, Crosby Road, Frodsham Street and Abbotsford Road sees more than 68,000 cars cruise through daily – that’s an impressive stream of traffic, equating to phenomenal exposure for any business lucky enough to sit in close proximity. Looking to capture the attention of these commuters is Pointcorp’s newly completed Albion Central, a community-oriented plaza that is elevating the suburb – along with the Sandgate Road dining cluster (Vaquero, Artie & Mai, Brewbakers) and Albion Fine Trades – into a major nerve centre for gourmet eats and essentials.

Over the past week, several retailers have opened their doors to curious locals, and of the new arrivals, Good Lookin’ Rooster has been getting tongues wagging the most. The concept, which specialises in juicy free-range rotisserie chicken and freshly made gourmet salads, sold out over its opening weekend. Hordes of chook-hungry patrons lined up to tuck into GLR’s range of plump hormone- and antibiotic-free birds (available in rolls, quarters, halves or whole), rotating selection of salads, hot sides such as chips, roast baby chats, sweet-potato wedges and rotisserie corn cobs lathered in Cafe De Paris, as well as an assortment of gravies, bone broths and seasonal soups. Joining Good Lookin’ Rooster is The Yiros Shop, a beloved go-to for Greek street food that expanded to Albion Central with its seventh location. Like its sibling outlets, The Yiros Shop’s menu is predicated on the ingenious combo of fluffy pita stuffed with marinated lamb shoulder, wagyu beef, Maryland chicken or grilled haloumi. In addition to yiros, this eatery also dishes up golden fries coated in crumbled feta, tangy Greek salads and saucy snack boxes. A few spots down sits Albion Bakehouse, a mixed-offering bakery hawking home-style pies, oven-baked sausage rolls, flaky croissants and a selection Vietnamese eats (think crusty banh mi, rice-paper rolls and rice-noodle salads). The crew behind The Montague Hotel and Hotel Carrington has expanded its independent bottle-shop portfolio to Albion as well, with the shelves at Crosby Road Wines and Ales stocked to the brim with boutique wines, craft beer, and premium spirits. Rounding out Albion Central’s culinary component is The Albion Marketplace – a continental deli that should be the main port of call for locals seeking artisanal meats, cheeses, premium pantry fillers and coffee.

Albion Central is now open to the public. Hit the Stumble Guide to get more details on the hub’s foodie retailers.