Flaming Knights barbecue cafe opens in Drayton at former Arches Cafe site

The owners of a fan-favourite catering company have their eyes set to the future after officially opening their barbecue cafe.

A popular catering business has officially put down roots on the outskirts of Toowoomba, filling a gap much desired by the community.

Owners Mark Aboud and Nick Myatt were not prepared for the amount of support they would receive in their first week operating out of their Flaming Knights Barbecue Cafe at the former Arches Cafe Drayton site.

“The food truck gave us a lot of exposure … but we didn’t anticipate the turnout we’ve had,” Mr Aboud said.

“We’ve always believed in customer service as the key to a successful business, and we focus on that.

“We’ve had a lot of our regulars from other venues and the food truck visit … but a lot of new faces as well.”

Executive chef Mark Aboud tries out a burger at his new cafe. Picture: Nev Madsen.

The long-time friends decided to go into business together after living in the USA and getting a taste of proper smoked meats.

After officially starting a business in August 2021, Mr Myatt said the pair were busy straight away and were contracted caterers, before eventually working out of a food truck and now their own venue.

While they are only operating during breakfast and lunches, Mr Aboud said there was potential for the business to open for dinners and weekends.

Some of the food on offer at Flaming Knights in Drayton. Picture: Nev Madsen.

“We pride ourselves as being clean, neat, tidy and organised with good customer service, so we would like to picture ourselves like Super Rooster, and having multiple stores.

“Hopefully one day we can provide two or three Flaming Knights around Toowoomba with a whisky bar attached.”

Mr Aboud said it was crucial for local businesses to support each other, and said they would not be where they were without the support of The Cave, 4 Brothers Brewing, Toowoomba Farmers Markets and Bearings and Power Transmission - Toowoomba.

“We want to help the community in anyway we can, so that’s why its all about locals supporting locals,” he said.

“We wouldn’t be here if they people didn't take a chance on us, so we want to help others too.”