Why is Graceville's Cafe Scene So Vibrant?

Graceville has a bustling foodie scene, and Brisbanites come from near and far to sample their cuisines.

But is a lot of the traffic coming from closer to home?

The median household income is $2397 per week, almost $1000 higher than both the Queensland and national averages. Because of this, it could be said that locals are more likely to eat out and spend their money within the local community.

You will often see the local cyclists frequenting many of the local cafes long before the work day starts, while the Disgraceville Greys, the area’s distinguished group of retirees, frequent local favourite, Honour Espresso.

On Saturday mornings, Honour Avenue in Graceville experiences some of the highest foot traffic of any day.

Image: Georgina Auton

With several cafes in a row and multiple other outlets selling bread, produce and more, it really is the heart of Graceville and you never know what the specials will be for the weekend.

Owner of Three Girls Skipping, Caroline Jones, says that Saturday and Sunday mornings are their busiest times for the week and says while she does have people coming from all over Brisbane, the locals are always supportive.

“It’s predominantly locals all the time,” Caroline says.

“At dinner time when we do dinner, it’s rare that we don’t recognise a face,”

“I’ve heard it ever since I’ve been here, but people call it Graceville Village and it’s so true.

Image: Georgina Auton

“It’s like they don’t leave that community,” Caroline says, adding “You just have to look at what Wendy is doing at Graceville Fine Foods and the amount of money, support and goods she has collected for the farmers recently is amazing.”

This hustle and bustle continues throughout the day and often into the evening, with restaurants opening their doors in the twilight serving cuisines from France, Italy, Greece, Thailand, Japan, China and India.

But it’s not just Honour Avenue which sees this massive increase on weekends. The Graceville Fiveways and the complex of shops on Graceville Avenue are also major hotspots on weekends.

Lijean Beier owns One Girl Studio in Graceville and says a lot of people, particularly in Graceville, are beginning to see the benefits of shopping closer to home.

The Disgraceville Greys. Image: Georgina Auton

“Small and independent businesses are the most dynamic and exciting sector in the Australian economy and a healthy small business sector is vital for high employment opportunities,” Lijean says.

“All you need to do is spend your money where your house is, which keeps your neighbourhood vibrant and flourishing - this is good for everyone.”

Aside from the benefits of community members spending their money at local cafes, Place Graceville agent Brad Robson lists the vibrant cafe culture as a positive feature for locals looking to buy or sell in the area.

“Buyers will often choose an area based on the facilities available, whether that be schools, public transport and - in Graceville’s case - all of that plus cafes!”

“Being close to desirable facilities will add value to homes in the eyes of house-hunters.”

“Imagine rolling out of bed on a Sunday morning and walking fifty metres to a nearby cafe to get coffee - it really is a lifestyle choice,” Brad says.

Whatever the reason the local cafe culture is flourishing, we’re all grateful for it! Now...where to find our next coffee and cake?

Image: Georgina Auton