Heritage hospitality – The Mix Bar transforms a Woolloongabba landmark into a luxe lounge
It’s an exciting time to live in Woolloongabba. As the Cross River Rail project begins to take shape between Vulture and Stanley Streets and the South City Square project rises on Logan Road, anticipation is building for the possibilities of the area. Opening just in time to catch the wave is The Mix Bar, a dual-purpose spot that has recently opened inside the heritage-listed Woolloongabba Post and Telegraph Office. Retaining a sophisticated old-world feel in an area that is rapidly modernising, The Mix Bar is offering a taste of quintessential hospitality and also educational opportunities for those looking to obtain bar and service skills.
The story
Over years working across the hospitality industry, Mick Brown has learned more about the business that just about anyone. One thing he has noticed in his time working in bars is how little training newcomers are given – even those that have obtained a Cert 3 in hospitality have gaps in their knowledge. Mick sought an opportunity to expand his registered training organisation Study Mix by opening a watering hole where novice bar workers can obtain hands-on experience, partnering up with professionals and learning the trade in an intensive real-world setting. The ideal location presented itself when Mick spied a ‘for lease’ sign outside the old Post and Telegraph Office on Stanley Street, and the wheels of inspiration immediately began to turn. The location proved to be the perfect blank canvas to work with, and Mick started to overhaul the interior space to suit his needs, resulting in newly open watering hole The Mix Bar.
The space
Being a heritage-listed building, Mick dutifully adhered to all requirements, carefully but comprehensively transforming the empty space into an old-school bar with a level of measured opulence. Although extreme compliance regulations caused some delays, the end result is a professional bar setup that caters to the local cocktail crowd and Sunday session seekers. Inside, The Mix Bar has created a relaxed but refined space to converse over drinks and nibbles, while a laneway bar in the adjoining alleyway is ideal for catching the last rays of the day. Mick has added to the old-school feel with some antique pieces, complementing the impressive heritage-listed painting that has been hung since Australia’s bicentenary. The old post master’s residence upstairs has been converted into training rooms, and spaces on the ground floor are equipped to handle catering and food service for functions.
The food and drink
The Mix Bar serves up a considered selection of wines, craft and mainstream tap beers, cocktails and bar bites. Dip trios, charcuterie selections and cheese boards offer plenty of snacking material, while the cocktail list offers an array of classic concoctions sure to please. A rotating selection of food trucks regularly park outside to cater for more substantial hunger levels, while those looking for a suitable function space can take advantage of The Mix Bar’s comprehensive facilities.
The Mix Bar is now open. For contact details and more information, seek it out in the Stumble Guide.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Brisbane dining guide with more than 2400 places to eat, drink, shop and play.
