Director Andrew Badcock relocated from Perth to set up Brisbane’s first, and so far, only Dôme cafe. In Western Australia, Dôme is a flourishing franchise with 30 locations. The franchise has enjoyed amazing but considered growth since the first outlet opened in Cottesloe, Western Australia in 1990.
And it must be doing something right because the Dôme business model has also spread to 40 outlets in Asia and the Middle East.
Andrew recognises that there is still great potential for growth in Brisbane’s burgeoning dining scene. Both lived here over 10 years ago and they recall how much the city has changed.
"George Street has changed considerably from a decade ago when there was nowhere to grab a drink or snack apart from the pubs," said Andrew.
"We think that our spot, underneath the Casino Towers apartment building and across the road from Queen’s Park, is perfect for Brisbane people to get their first taste of Dôme.
"We’ve paid a lot of attention to getting the atmosphere right,”.
Dôme brings a touch of European sophistication to Brisbane’s cafe scene.
Dôme brings a touch of European sophistication to Brisbane’s cafe scene. The continental atmosphere is reflected in curved wooden chairs, a sumptuously decorated ceiling, brass fittings and quality music. People who like ultra-trendy coffee spots, bouncing with noise and shiny surfaces, won’t be drawn into Dôme.
Instead, there’s room for parents to bring in prams with a welcome addition of baby change facilities. The tables and booths provide enough peace and privacy for office workers to hold casual meetings and it’s the kind of place where diners are welcome to make themselves comfortable and settle in for while.
The menu is brightly photographed with a decent selection of all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, wraps, soups and other cooked items. Orders need to be placed at the counter but the items are then served to your table.
Dôme offers a wide variety of hot and cold beverages. Of course, like all cafes, it serves many varieties of coffee. But some good summertime caffeine options are the iced espreski (available in lots of flavours) or a low-fat smooth fruit. Plus you can buy fresh coffee beans to take home.
Tea snobs (of which Brisbane has a growing number) are no longer prepared to pay for a cup of tea made from a measly tea bag. At Dôme there are chai, herbal and blend loose-leaf teas, elegantly presented in silver service teapots. Extra hot water or soy milk is available at no extra cost.
A liquor license and pavement dining approval is on its way. These will help Dôme evolve into a reliable CBD venue for good food and quality service with a relaxed atmosphere. Peter and Andrew wouldn’t have moved all the way from Perth for anything less.
For more information: Dôme cafe
