More super than normal

The first thing you realise when you arrive at Brisbane's version of Supernormal is that it looks nothing like Melbourne's version of Supernormal. People who pay attention to these things have muttered as much – in either smug or scandalised tones, depending on their bias – ever since Supernormal Northern Edition opened in the middle of 2024.

Its subdued, earthy palette demonstrates few, if any, obvious links to the famously manga-quirky stylings of Supernormal Southern Edition. It's out with the Japanese vending machine, in with the pleasant potted palms. Out with the gritty industrial warehouse-style dining space, in with the lower floor of a multi-use high-rise from Cbus. "It isn't the same!" grouch detractors, as though they'd expected restaurateur Andrew McConnell to 3D-print his Flinders Lane Asian-fusion flagship and drop it, fully formed, next to the Brisbane River.

Here's what else you realise if you take the time to think about it: who cares? Because Supernormal Brisbane is excellent, in almost every way that matters.