When it comes to apartment buying, it’s always a nerve-wracking prospect buying off the plan. The same could be said for opening a hospitality venture at the base of said unfinished apartment development, but for Greg Mclean and Caity Jones the gamble paid off big time. The couple – former owners of popular Sunshine Coast eatery Decisions Cafe – dipped their toes into the Brisbane market last year, opening sun-soaked coffee pit-stop Tuckshop Time at South City Square in August. Although the development was in its infancy, the chance to cement their place as a go-to spot for the ensuing wave of residents was enough to convince Greg and Caity to take a swing. Off the back of a positive response from early residents, South City Square’s developer Pellicano offered the duo a second spot to take on with the aim of establishing both venues as the beating heart of the burgeoning precinct. Greg and Caity decided to move to Brisbane full time to concentrate on their thriving enterprise, commencing work on what would become Meek Social House – a community-focused eatery and bar inspired by bohemian beach pads and homely comforts.

Meek Social House is just that – a space where guests can come and be social in an informal but inviting atmosphere. It’s no easy feat establishing a go-to local from scratch, but Greg and Caity have hit on a winning formula with Meek’s Newport Beach-meets-Byron Bay aesthetic – a palette of white, blue and blonde timber, with wicker lamps, greenery and a wholesome neon sign creates a bright and lived-in space. The accessibility also extends to the modern Australian menu, which has been conceived by Shane Johnson (formerly of Woolshed Restaurant in South Australia) to match the venue. The breakfast and lunch offering has been constructed out of local produce, and offers recognisable eats that have been elevated by housemade flourishes. The soft-opening menu currently offers burgers, rump steaks with heavenly truffle butter, karaage chicken, and buffalo wings at lunch, with an array of tapas coming into play at dinner. Although this menu is likely to change over the next few weeks, guests can count on Meek hosting nightly specials, from its $15 steak night on Tuesday, Wednesday evening’s $10 tapas and forthcoming wings and tinnies afternoon on Sunday. Speaking of drinks, Meek Social House offers everything for a casual sip or a lively night out. The back bar boasts a gin-focused selection of spirits, which funnel into a list of colourful and handcrafted cocktails (many featuring flower and flavour-infused ice cubes). A quirky wine list, a selection of mainstream beers on tap and a collection of craft tinnies rounds out the offering, which will also likely shift and evolve over time.

Meek Social House is currently undergoing a soft opening, with the venue officially launching on Friday November 22. For open hours and other handy details, click on over to the Stumble Guide.