If you asked Botanica owners Alison and Brett Hutley how many requests they’ve received from locals asking them to expand to their suburb, they’d probably tell you that they lost count years ago. But, if you change your line of questioning to which suburb received the most requests, they’ll likely concede that it was Hawthorne. With a blossoming foodie scene and proximity to some major thoroughfares, Hawthorne is undoubtedly one of the most desirable boom areas worth tapping into. That being said, the Hutley’s slow-and-steady approach to growth has meant that every expansion opportunity (no matter how enticing) is carefully weighed and considered before a plan is put into action. It’s guiding principle that has allowed Botanica to grow its presence without sacrificing quality, ensuring each of its three locations (located in Red Hill, Teneriffe and Camp Hill) remains dependable, even as demand for Botanica’s product has skyrocketed. Before the pandemic hit Brisbane, Alison and Brett were presented a prime opportunity to set up shop within a forthcoming boutique dining complex called Two Sixty-Five, the construction of which was about to get underway on Hawthorne Road. As the stars finally aligned for Botanica’s anticipated arrival in Hawthorne, lockdowns forced the team’s plans to be placed on hold, meaning the Hutleys were forced to patiently wait a little longer to make their debut.

On Monday January 25 their patience will be rewarded – Botanica is about to open a brand-new salad bar within the Hawthorne micro-precinct, joining similarly lauded traders Ze Pickle, Paper Cup Coffee Co. and Nodo (the latter of which will be opening at the hub in April). Much like its sibling locations, Botanica Hawthorne occupies a small spatial footprint, but then again, it’s not about size – it’s about what you can do within it. All eyes will naturally be drawn to the salad cabinet on the main counter, showcasing mounds of Botanica’s popular (and ever rotating) array of salads. On any given day the selection could include crowd-pleasing options like cauliflower and sweet potato with yoghurt dressing and harissa, Israeli Cous Cous with roasted sweet potato, vegan pesto, roasted red onion and baby spinach, and the kale salad doused with confit-garlic dressing, parmesan and sourdough croutons, among others. Also available is Botanica’s salivation-inducing selection of savoury tarts, heavenly cupcakes and glazed bar cakes – all of which are gluten free. At Hawthorne Alison and Brett will be placing special focus on Botanica’s selection of signature bundt cakes, with an assortment of flavours making this locale the go-to spot for the bundt bandits among you.

Botanica’s Hawthorne location officially opens on Monday January 25 – head to the Stumble Guide for operating hours.