If it wasn’t for the blackboard out the front, you might miss new coffee joint Bear Bones Espresso. Wedged between retail stores and office blocks on McLachlan Street, the slender space is yet another addition to the burgeoning Fortitude Valley coffee scene. Bear Bones is the brainchild of Brisbane restaurateur and graffiti artist Asa Boardman – the man who indulged locals with beloved venues like The Kettle and Tin in Paddington and The Ponycat in New Farm. Asa’s latest creation follows his trademark style, with vibrant wall art crafted by the man himself and an easygoing vibe that invites guests to linger longer. The former office space underwent some heavy cosmetic work to achieve its current look, with the boys breaking through the walls and opening up the roof to form a cavernous warehouse space.

A coffee roasting machine will soon find a home in the back of the cafe, crafting premium blends for Bear Bones customers as well as taking over roasting duties for both The Kettle and Tin and The Ponycat. Meanwhile, the Fortitude Valley baristas will work their way through a rotating line-up of specialty beans, currently featuring a blend from Peter Wolff, with Proud Mary on the way. To fill the belly, peruse the goods in the cabinet or implore the lads to whip up avocado and Danish fetta on sourdough, or a pulled pork sandwich with red cabbage and apple slaw. The venue also plans to host community music and art-focused events in the future.

Bear Bones Espresso
2/66 McLachlan Street, Fortitude Valley
Open: Monday to Saturday 7:00 am to 2:30 pm