Nestled in the industrial back streets of Newstead, The Triffid is one of Brisbane’s few live music venues, with a twist. Its beautifully lit, paved red brick beer garden and newly added rooftop terrace offer Brisbane foodies an intimate space to relax, share a few drinks and have a casual bite to eat surrounded by some of Brisbane’s most memorable music moments. Having proven its staying power in the growing Brisbane night-life scene, The Triffid has launched a larger, more expansive food menu for this season, giving already converted locals another reason to visit.
The aptly named, Feedback Café is where the grub is served up. Housed in a converted shipping container in the large open beer garden – the operation is small but packs a punch. The service is laid back like the chilled atmosphere, you simply order and pay at the bar while grabbing your drinks.
The new menu comprises mainly of American inspired takeaway style dishes with a few salads thrown in for good measure. A couple of the original burgers remain but are joined by tasty newcomers like the Triffid Dog ($12), Grilled Chicken Salad ($12) and Jalapeno Poppers ($8).
Burger lovers will no doubt find themselves satisfied with three very different options on the menu. Those who love a classic can try The Triffid Burger ($15), a traditional style cheese burger served medium rare on a brioche bun with all the usual trimmings. Or for something a little different, there is the Haloumi Burger ($15) with a beetroot puree, served with chips or the Falafel Burger ($15) with a mint yoghurt and chilli sauce.
For the indecisive amongst us, perhaps the Trio of Sliders ($15). You’ll get a mini version of the Triffid Burger and the Haloumi Burger as well as being able to try a special crispy fried Triffid Chicken Slider with cucumber and chilli mayo.
Outside of burgers the menu offers a selection of fried food favourites including the Triffid’s signature crispy chicken Triffid Karaage Chicken ($10). Of course chicken wings make an appearance, what bar menu is complete without them these days, Bird on the Run ($12) is accompanied by a generous amount of dipping sauces including maple syrup, blue cheese sauce and a BBQ sauce.
The wings are salty, moreish, and ideal for sharing with a couple of frothy beers.
The café also serves fries four different ways which make a welcome addition to any of the menu items. I, however, find them best shared between two or as a meal on their own. You can’t go past the Pulled Lamb Shoulder Fries ($12) served with a ranch sauce and salsa verdi. The table one over from us ordered them and I had a serious case of food envy!
On Sundays they do a special cheese board. It’s relatively no fuss. You’ll get three different cheeses, ours were a brie, cheddar and a blue, served with an onion relish, beetroot puree and pickles. Crackers came in a box on the side and though it was delicious, it didn’t have the usual finesse you would expect on a cheese board. I think next time I would just share a couple of the small bites and a big serving of the Pulled Lamb Shoulder Fries – I told you I had food envy!
Overall, the atmosphere here takes the cake, it is laid back but with a cool rock and roll charm much like its settings. The crowd is an eclectic mix of rockers, hipsters, pub lovers and upmarket locals who’ve uncovered this gem. It’s a worthy spot for a pre-gig dinner or a long lazy lunch with mates. With a beer garden boasting a newly expanded food menu and a rooftop terrace, The Triffid is certainly on its way to becoming Brisbane’s favourite spot for a relaxed beer and bite.
The Triffid
Address: 7-9 Stratton St Newstead QLD 4006
Contact: 07 3171 3001
Website: http://thetriffid.com.au/
Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 12 noon-late
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