Revealed: What’s happening to former James St Grocer site

Once serving as the home to James St Grocer, which abruptly closed its doors months prior, here’s what’s happening to the site.

Husband and wife team Simon and Renee Desmarchelier have opened the doors to their new cafe 95 Mary St. Picture: Rhylea Millar

He’s spent decades working in hospitality, including the kitchen of Richard Brandson’s luxury private island, and now Simon Desmarchelier, alongside wife Renee, have opened a boutique cafe in leafy Toowoomba.

Once serving as the home to James St Grocer, which abruptly closed its doors months prior, the cafe now has a new name, owners and concept.

Husband and wife team Simon and Renee Desmarchelier have opened the doors to their new cafe 95 Mary St. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Fittingly called 95 Mary St, business has been booming for the new boutique-style cafe, with many patrons showing their support since its first day of trade on Wednesday.

Already a favourite on the evolving menu is the hot smoked salmon, with plans to add beetroot and gin and tonic-cured salmon too.

“I think keeping it simple and offering good quality food and service is the ethos here,” Mr Desmarchelier said.

“We believe Toowoomba will take ownership of this and it will become a real food destination.”

Husband and wife team Simon and Renee Desmarchelier have opened the doors to their new cafe 95 Mary St. Picture: Rhylea Millar

Serving Botero coffee and Jilly’s fine leaf tea, the cafe also caters for all dietary requirements with vegan, organic and gluten-free options available.

Making the space their own, the parents-of-two have incorporated bright blooms from Ruby Lane and will showcase works from local artists.

Husband and wife team Simon and Renee Desmarchelier have opened the doors to their new cafe 95 Mary St. Picture: Rhylea Millar

The East Toowoomba cafe is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 8am to 4.30pm, with plans to extend trading hours in the future.