It’s not often a restaurant bills itself as “boisterous”, but more often it should. Boisterous is a fine euphemism for some of our best nights out, and a perfect way to describe the casual, fun-loving atmosphere at this rustic treat on the antiques strip of Brisbane suburb Woolloongabba. Occupying a two-storey 1920s brick building, The Crosstown Eating House harks back to those more congenial and, surely, more unruly days – a melange of vintage prints, paintings and mix-matched frames lend a homely, living-room character. Elsewhere, sloppily painted wooden chairs, plants and charming lighting complete Crosstown’s laid-back posture.
Its cuisine is equally rustic; sharing plates, bistro style grub and impressive cocktails – tacos (for breakfast!), pork belly, marinara, confit… comforting words spring from the menu like a greeting from old friends. And you’ll likely make many of those here, small but perfectly formed, Crosstown’s bar is a local affair – boisterous locals, no doubt. Outgoing, good humoured, authentic to a tee… Brisbane’s Crosstown Eating House is a figurehead for reviving the use of the word ‘boisterous’ and, for that, we salute it.
