After a tumultuous year and being in and out of lockdown, it has been super hard for some of our favourite small businesses, cafes, and restaurants to keep operating and feeding the hungry mouths of Ipswich and Toowoomba locals.
In order to help our local businesses thrive and continue to help our cities flourish, we need to show them some love and support. Here is our list of our favourite restaurants and cafes in our region, what they offer and why you and your family should stop by and pick up some beautiful food.
TOOWOOMBA
Meringandan Hotel
If you are looking for a good old pub feed, look no further! Crisp schooners, parmis and superb steaks, all tied together with a community feel. Located on 30 Main St, Meringandan, you will want to make this spot your new local. Check it out this weekend, you won’t be disappointed.
Pump Cafe
Based on exceptional customer service and quality food, this business has thrived and become a preferred café for all Toowoomba locals. With cafes across three locations, it is always easy to get your Pump coffee fix. Offering exception food, quality service, and even a drive-thru, it really is a no brainer.
Fitzy’s Toowoomba
This family-owned pub has a long and rich history in Toowoomba, and if you are a local you’d be well aware of the Fitzy’s name. Fitzy’s is your one-stop-shop for dining, gaming, functions and even just a Friday afternoon drink. Rally up the gang and spend an afternoon at Toowoomba’s most iconic pub.
The Baker’s Duck
What do you get if you combine high-quality organic, locally sourced ingredients, attention to detail, and a whole lot of love? The Baker’s Duck, of course! If you are looking for delicious pastries, yummy sourdough and everything in between, this is your place. Located on Campbell St in Toowoomba City, you will want to add this to your hit list.
IPSWICH
Bakehouse Steakhouse
Reviving an Ipswich Classic has paid off for this family-owned restaurant. Behind the iconic pastel pink door lies a dining experience that is a feast to both the eyes (and the stomach). Priding themselves on producing the perfect steak, the Bakehouse Steakhouse truly exceeds expectations. With endless shoestring fries and a cocktail menu that is to die for, make sure you visit this new city gem ASAP.
Rafter & Rose
If you are on the hunt for a great coffee, look no further than Rafter and Rose. This eclectic café has something for everyone! Even those with allergies or food intolerances. With an amazing menu of gourmet café food and a cabinet overflowing with homemade, decadent sweet treats, Rafter & Rose has become a weekend favourite for all Ipswich locals. Take home the signature Rafter & Rose flavours with a jar of their house-made jam, so you can have the café experience each and every day.
Dovetails Restaurant
If you are a bit of a food connoisseur Dovetails will most definitely be your cup of tea. With 5-star services and a beautiful atmosphere, the food isn’t the only thing that will have you running back to this standout restaurant. Serving modern Australian cuisine using the finest local ingredients, Dovetails Restaurant will dazzle your tastebuds and have you running back for more.
Mikes Pizzeria
The new kid on the block, but no stranger to the Ipswich dining scene, Mike’s Pizzeria offers quality woodfired pizzas and pasta alongside a curated selection of wines. Owned by the superstar team from Heisenberg Haus (another one of our favourites) you can be sure to receive exceptional food and service to match.
TAYLAH ANTONIOLLI – MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
07 3202 3040
A go getter and doer, Taylah is a no excuses, get the job done kind of girl. With a strong work ethic and high attention to detail, Taylah is happy to help out wherever she can. Armed with a degree in business specialising in marketing and public relations Taylah brings fresh ideas and innovation to the iThink team.