Despite seeing two of his venues flood in the aftermath of 2022’s rain-bomb event, Michael Tassis hasn’t forsaken the waterfront. His two water-logged spots – Opa Bar + Mezze and Massimo Restaurant & Bar – have both been refurbished and are as popular as ever. Soon, Michael and the Tassis Group will open seafood-centric venue Fosh a few river bends away at Portside Wharf. And next year the restaurateur will turn his attention back to The City, where he’ll open two more Clui Design-shaped riverside venues – this time on top of a bridge.

Last weekend, the Office of the Lord Mayor announced that the Tassis Group had been selected to open over-water restaurant Bombora and an all-day bicycle-themed cafe Mulga Bill’s on Brisbane’s newest green bridge, which will connect Kangaroo Point to The City. The group edged out a number of submissions, with the proposal – infused with tributes to history and place – taking a long-term view of the site’s potential.

“You have to submit a resume, pretty much, with what you’ve done before, what you’ve achieved and what type of results you can get,” says Michael of the tender submission process. “I’ve gone into challenging spots and made it work. This is a great opportunity that’s been presented – I think I can do something really special there.”

While finer details on both Bombora and Mulga Bill’s will be revealed in the months leading up to the bridge’s completion next year, the announcement offers plenty of insight into the inspirations propelling both concepts. Bombora, an Indigenous term used to describe large sea waves that break over submerged reefs and sand bars, will sit more than ten metres above the Brisbane River in a 300-sqm space boasting an estimated capacity of 130 guests. Equipped with a bar and a private-dining space, the restaurant will offer near-unbeatable views along The City’s waterfront stretch and across the Brisbane River to the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point cliffs.

In the kitchen, a woodfire grill will cook an array of morsels, with protein and seafood expected to be key components of the menu. “[The name] refers to land and sea, so that’s why steak and fish will be the main focal point,” says Michael. “We’ll utilise really local produce and elevate the dining experience a premium level. We’ll have live lobster and mud crab on the menu, as well as vegetarian options.”

Mulga Bill’s, (named after the famous Banjo Patterson poem Mulga Bill’s Bicycle) will tether the bridge to an urban plaza taking shape at the junction of Edward Street and Alice Street. A more casual cafe-style concept, Mulga Bill’s will serve woodfired pizzas, steak and seafood to dine-in patrons, grab-and-go pastries and coffee to commuters, plus takeaway picnic boxes perfect for grazing amongst the nearby parkland and public spaces. “It’s going to be pretty cool because it’ll have an open feel to it,” says Michael. “It’ll also be suited for people want just have a relaxing evening – a good spot to have an early dinner. [Mulga Bill’s] will cater for a mix of clients.”

More details on Bombora and Mulga Bill’s will be revealed closer to the Green Bridge’s completion in 2024.

This article was written by James Frostick from The Weekend Edition.