Owner of Belvedere Bar N Grill at Hamilton’s Portside Wharf reveals reason behind closure

One of Brisbane’s most popular waterfront restaurants has shocked fans by announcing its closure on social media. But a return has already been hinted at. SEE THE OWNER’S PLANS

The part-owner of one of Brisbane’s most popular riverfront bar/restaurants has revealed the reasons behind the venue’s shock closure.

Belvedere Bar N Grill at Hamilton’s Portside Wharf last night (Thursday, June 23) announced on its Facebook page that they would be shutting their waterfront location on Saturday after more than a decade at the site.

Owner Cosimo Carvignese, who opened the restaurant in April 2012 after his business partner suggested the riverside location was perfect for a steakhouse, said they were closing the venue for no other reason except “it was just time”.

Belvedere owner Cosimo Carvignese with Mark Maric and Gianni Greghini when the restaurant opened in 2012. Picture: Adam Armstrong

“We’ve been here for 10 years and that’s a long time and it was just time to move on I think,” he said.

“We’ve loved being here, but it’s also a lot of work with such a big restaurant, especially lately with the staffing issues most restaurants are having.

Belvedere Bar and Grill at Hamilton's Portside WHarf has announced its closure. Picture: Facebook

“I am no longer just the part-owner, I’m the waiter, bar person and doing so many things.

“I’m 63 going on 64, so I think it’s just time to do something a little smaller.”

Mr Carvignese said reading the comments from loyal customers after they announced the closure was emotional.

“It hasn’t really hit me yet, it has hit some of the team already but I’m sure it will probably hit me on Saturday when we close,” he said.

Belvedere Bar and Grill at Hamilton's Portside Wharf has announced its closure. Picture: Facebook

“But when I read the comments from our customers after we announced we were closing, you do get a bit emotional because you see how many people loved the restaurant.

“But it’s not a sad time, it’s an exciting and happy time.”

That happy and exciting time Mr Carvignese is speaking of is the possibility Belvedere will return in the near future.

Mr Carvignese said he was looking to lease the site of the former Mr and Mrs Jones Wine Bar at the Portside Whard precinct, where a deal could be finalised in the coming weeks.

“It will be a bit more of a refined restaurant for around 45-60 people, but it will still be named Belvedere Bar N Grill,” he said.

“If we can get the deal signed, we expect to be open in September.”

Mr Carvignese said he wanted to thank his team, including business partner and co-owner Joseph Martin and long term team members Andrea, Giovanni and Luca.

Belvedere Bar and Grill at Hamilton's Portside Wharf has announced its closure. Picture: Facebook

He also said he wanted to thank their landlord, Brookfield, for their help over the years, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

One customer posted: “Cosimo I’m very sad, but excited for your new venture.”

Another posted: “Thank you to all the team, we have celebrated some wonderful family occasions with you. We wish you all the best in finding that new spot.”