History reimagined as King Tea brings tapas and cocktails to Paddington
Paddington locals have been gossiping about a new kid on the block – one that has turned one of the suburb’s most iconic buildings into a hot new eating destination. Once upon a time the building housed a popular tea merchant and tobacconist but has since been transformed into King Tea, a stylish tapas bar that is paying homage to the history of its home with a look that bridges generations. You won’t find tea on the menu here, but you will find a stellar selection of share plates, boutique Spanish wines and a sublime atmosphere that locals have been craving since trams rolled down Latrobe Terrace.
The space
The area surrounding Paddington Central has seen a huge boom in the past few years, with several stellar eateries popping up left, right and centre. Nestled near Hai-Hai Ramen, Remy’s and Sassafras Canteen is King Tea – a composed and comfortable tapas bar that has seen one of the area’s hidden historical gems given a new lease on life. The former King Tea snack bar has been resurrected in a new form, with the building’s original components revealed and brought to the fore. Exposed brick walls, original hardwood floors and steel beams crossing the ceiling give the whole space an engaging atmosphere with loads of character, while a new bar and kitchen have been installed to add a modern touch.
The food
King Tea specialises in Spanish tapas – encouraging groups to congregate and converse over shared helpings of lovingly cooked morsels (and a few glasses of wine, of course). The menu boasts a range of traditional selections from patatas bravas, blood sausage, chargrilled vegetables, lamb rubs, crispy pork belly, roasted cauliflower and more. A range of preserved seafood such as sardines, razor clams and anchovies is available for adventurous palates, while a charcuterie and cheese selection helps round out the menu. As for the drink, a wine list of predominantly Spanish drops is available in addition to a concise cocktail selection and a curated tap and bottled beer offering.
The details
King Tea is trialling its own pintxos hour, which evokes the grazing culture made popular in Spanish tapas bars. Free snacks are provided between 4:00—6:00 pm on Friday evenings, with small bites available while patrons sip. An area will soon be open between King Tea and Hai-Hai for patrons to mingle while they wait for a table, while sidewalk seating will soon be added. A function area is still under construction at the rear of the venue, which will be available for private events.
For more King Tea’s opening hours and contact details, head over to the Stumble Guide.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Brisbane dining guide with more than 2400 places to eat, drink, shop and play.
