Popular Brisbane cafe Vega to reopen after devastating fire
A crowd-funding campaign supported by loyal diners is helping a local Lutwyche cafe reopen after it was destroyed.
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Popular north Brisbane cafe Vega, which was destroyed by fire last month, is set to reopen in a new home across the river.
The beloved plant-based eatery in Chalk St, Lutwyche, owned by husband and wife Prince Khamkaew and Pratana “Gifty” Langkapinth went up in flames on February 7 destroying about $80,000 worth of equipment and furniture, with investigators still unable to determine the cause.
But the couple has now found a new site to operate from at 91 Jane St in West End.
Leased by agent Anthony Conias, the 150sq m timber cottage on 488sq m of land features two decks for covered outdoor dining, plus a cosy, homely vibe inside like Vega’s former Lutwyche location.
With the Chalk St eatery uninsured, Ms Langkapinth plans to sell her house and has been working two jobs to try to earn enough money to start over, but will also be helped by the community, with loyal fans of Vega starting a GoFundMe campaign and raising almost $15,000.
“This amazing thing happened to me – local people offered help,” Ms Langkapinth said. “Their support is so incredible,” she said.
The new West End site is currently undergoing final renovations, but when it does open later this year, guests can expect all their favourite plant-based dishes, plus an expanded grab-and-go range with everything from pastries to salads.
The multicultural menu – heavily influenced by Ms Langkapinth’s Thai background – will also feature the likes of a vegan omelette, plus a sweet and a savoury croffle (croissant waffle), the sweet with caramelised banana and fruit, the savoury with tempeh, avocado, fried “egg”, pumpkin and beans.
Mr Khamkaew will be head chef, allowing Ms Langkapinth to run front of house, although the pair is partnering on menu development.
They will serve Fonzie Abbott coffee, alongside a range of smoothies and juices, including their popular blue-tinted butterfly pea drink.
A cabinet will also be filled with vegan and gluten-free cakes and sweets.
The couple is hoping for an August opening.
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