Fiery flavours and fantastic fare at Fogata Latin Fusion on James Street
If you are sick of drab and uninventive food every time you head out to eat, Fogata ‘bout it! James Street’s newest eatery Fogata Latin Fusion draws influence from the entire South American continent and showcases the vibrant passion for flavour that is intrinsic to Latin cooking. Think char-grilled meats, tropical tantalisers and colourful cocktails.
The space
Fogata Latin Fusion can be found in the space formerly occupied by Porcini – James Street regulars might be familiar with the location, which sits just past the QA Hotel. The space has been overhauled with a creative and relaxed aesthetic with two distinct spaces to choose from – one offering a casual deck bar atmosphere and the other a proper sit-down dining area. Rustic touches such as exposed brick and cushy ottomans covered with hessian coffee bags are juxtaposed with lush plant hangers and eclectic South American decorative touches. A revamped bar hides the kitchen, which has been fitted out with a brand-new charcoal grill imported from Brazil. Get a closer look at the space in The Street Photographer.
The food and drink
If the name didn’t give it away, Fogata Latin Fusion serves up, well, Latin fusion. A quick look at the menu shows that the team has decided to showcase flavours from all across the continent, dividing the menu up into regions and offering tasty bites from each. A tapas selection offers moreish morsels such as coconut prawns, chicken wings and empanadas, while share plates include paella, churrasco and feijoada stew. The larger plates are divided into three regions – the Caribbean and tropical north, the barbecue-mad region of Pampas (Argentina and Uruguay) and the home of root vegetables and potato dishes, the Andes. Patrons can sink their teeth into seafood platters, quinoa salads, rump cap steak and more – with sides such as charred corn, roasted root vegetables or sweet-potato chips. The bar offers four tap beers, Argentinian and Chilean wines and 30 cocktails divided into three categories – classic, contemporary and Passiona Latina.
The details
Fogata Latin Fusion is the brainchild of two brothers who have worked in Brisbane’s hospitality scene for years since emigrating from Brazil. The restaurant’s concept is based on a story of a group of travelling gypsies, who travelled more than 20 countries entertaining small villages with folk tales in exchange for shelter. These gatherings took place around a fogata, which is the Spanish word for wood fire. Tim Sharp, formerly of Brewski and The Stables Craft Bar & Kitchen has come onboard as head chef. The restaurant will be offering a breakfast menu in the coming weeks, as well as a selection of economical lunch specials for locals.
For opening hours and contact information, head to the Stumble Guide.
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