Paddo Tavern to get new look by 2032 Games amid high street revival

The Paddo Tavern is to get a plush new look and extra rooftop level with sweeping city views, while a luxe new project right across the street swings into action, changing the face of Caxton Street forever. SEE THE PLANS

How the extra level and facade would look.

The Paddo Tavern is to get a plush new look and extra rooftop level with sweeping city views, in time for the Olympics.

It comes as a luxe unit project has begun work opposite the iconic pub and as Gambaros restaurant closes tomorrow, October 31, after 70 years serving customers a short walk down the road at Caxton St.

The Australian Rugby League Commission, which bought the site two years ago from the Gambaro family, was expected to install a management group to run the restaurant space.

In August the ARLC announced the boutique hotel in the same building would be rebranded as The Beetson, named in honour of late league legend Artie Beetson whose statue stands outside Suncorp Stadium.

“We’re planning to celebrate our last day with our loyal customers, some of whom have been coming to us for 50 years,’’ John Gambaro said.

“But we have expanded our Black Hide steakhouse across the road so it’s now steak and seafood.’’

How the extra level and facade would look.

McGuires Hotels, Queensland’s largest family-owned pub group, has meanwhile lodged plans to expand the floor area of the Paddo Tavern almost 50 per cent to 5112 sqm including three new function rooms for private parties, weddings and other events.

There would be a new, modern facade, kitchen, store, bathrooms and a new lift to improve accessibility, spread over four levels, with a “green’’ wall and upgraded garden areas, plus a more attractive street presence on Given Tce.

Carparking would be cut from 85 to 79 spaces, less than the minimum required by Council, but traffic consultants TTM said the City Glider stop outside the site meant many patrons arrived by bus.

Donny, John, Joyce and Frank Gambaro at their restaurant on Caxton St which closes tomorrow, October 31. Picture: Josh Woning

The development application is “impact assessable, meaning residents can appeal it in the planning court and neighbours must be publicly notified.

However, town planners Urbis said in the DA documents that the upgrade would enhance the site ahead of the 2032 Games.

“These improvements are designed to improve the tavern’s operational efficiency and service quality, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors,’’ Urbis said.

“In addition to the functional upgrades, the extension will significantly enhance the visual appeal from the lower end of Given Tce, particularly for those walking up from Suncorp Stadium.

“The new design will incorporate modern architectural elements that blend seamlessly with the existing structure, creating a cohesive and attractive facade.

Artist's impression of the proposed 208 Given Tce project.

Artist's impression of the new laneway entrance from Given Tce.

“This visual enhancement is expected to draw more foot traffic and increase the tavern’s prominence as a local landmark.

It comes after work began recently across the street on a major luxury, boutique unit and short-stay project at 208-220 Given Tce.

Prominent local landowners the Vidakovic family said the project would reactivate Given Tce, which has been slowly coming back from a period of shop vacancies and poor retail turnover.

An “activated’’ laneway would connect a new childcare centre at the rear of the site to Given Tce and character shops would be restored to attract new restaurants, cafes and providores.

The project involved two midrise buildings of five and four storeys with 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-term accommodation suites, respectively.

Originally published as Paddo Tavern to get new look by 2032 Games amid high street revival