Encores to close as owners look to opening new Toowoomba CBD restaurant

The owners of one of Toowoomba’s most popular restaurants has announced they will not renew their lease and are looking forward to their next project.

Encores owners Mark and Meredith Rawlings.

One of Toowoomba’s most popular restaurants, Encores, is set to close with owners Mark and Meredith Rawlings saying the decision was driven by timing and the difficult business climate.

“After 28 years in one of the most iconic venues in Toowoomba, it is time to make way for newer (and possibly slimmer) blood,” the couple said via a statement.

“With the end of lease upon us, the decision – should we stay or should we go – has been a difficult choice.

“However, with hospitality staffing more challenging than ever and no end in sight to the challenges of trying to run a small business in today’s climate, we have decided it is time for a change.

“Years ago, Professor Peter Swannell advised us – it’s time to leave when you’re at the top of your game.

“Based on our guests’ comments, and the number of special celebrations we have had the honour to host, we feel like we’ve made it, although not on our own – more as a team of great people – guests, staff, and suppliers – all have helped make up the Encores experience.”

Encores opened in the Empire Theatre in 1997 and has been the heart of the foodie scene.

It rapidly established a reputation for fine dining and became the venue of choice for Garden City.

For a time the couple ran a second restaurant, Inbound, at the Toowoomba railway station.

In their statement, Mark and Meredith alluded to their next project.

“We are not ready for retirement, quite yet, so we have plans for a smaller venue within the CBD, to host small events and functions, but still in Encores’ signature style,” the statement said.

“However, what we do know is it’s time to step aside and let the next chapter in the Empire Theatre’s restaurant space take hold.”

Empire Theatres general manager Giuliana Bonel thanked the couple and said she was saddened by their departure.

“We sincerely wish Mark and Meredith all the very best in their next venture,” she said.

“For nearly three decades, Encores has been an integral part of The Empire experience — from their exceptional in-restaurant dining to catering our large-scale on-stage dinner events, Encores have consistently delivered a standard of service and dining experience second to none.”

Encores will vacate the premises by the end of May, the Toowoomba Regional Council works to secure a new tenant.

Originally published as Encores to close as owners look to opening new Toowoomba CBD restaurant