New CBD wine bar ‘just what Toowoomba needs’

A new wine and snack bar has opened in the heart of the CBD offering the latest in organic, natural and vegan wines with a focus on Australian independent winemakers and distillers.

Just in time for the festive season the CBD’s newest wine and snack bar, Cork and Lever, has opened in Margaret St.

While the introduction of the new space has created much intrigue to passers-by, the idea behind the bar was inspired by recent events, and a focus on supporting Australian-made products.

With 2020 posing such a difficult year for independent winemakers, owner and operator Micha Whitley set out to create a space to showcase and support local artisans who have been affected by the events of 2020.

Cork and Lever has opened on Margaret St.

“It’s been a tough year for small business owners in rural and regional Australia within the hospitality industry. The food and beverage community is quite tight-knit, and together we have experienced businesses closing due to overseas competition,” she said.

Cork and Lever offers a sophisticated, relaxed and inviting atmosphere, offering the latest in organic, natural and vegan wines with a focus on Australian independent winemakers and distillers.

It opened over the weekend and Ms Whitley said she was overwhelmed with the response.

“We had people lining up outside waiting for us to open the doors on Saturday,” she said.

“The feedback that we were getting that this is just what Toowoomba needed for this particular demographic of 30 year-old plus men and women who want to enjoy quality beverages and to try new and exciting drops, with a small food offering to match.

The Cork and Lever in Margaret St.

“Local businesses have been very supportive of us, with customers commenting that they had been sent to us prior to their booking for a pre-dinner aperitif, or after their dinner for dessert and a nightcap. We are supporting them right back and have been providing recommendations for all our neighbouring businesses.”

By opening Cork and Lever, Ms Whitley hopes to encourage Toowoomba to support Australian-made products, and be part of helping small businesses recover and thrive post COVID.

“Going out for a drink is the great Australian past time, and knowing that it came from a status that’s conscious about its conditions and is contributing to the Australian workforce and economy is the icing on the cake,” she said.

Cork and Lever has opened on Margaret St.

While restrictions continue to ease and the CBD reopens, the addition of the new space is a welcome sign, creating a new economic opportunity, new jobs and excitement within locals who have been wanting this type of establishment.

“A strong local hospitality sector is crucial to Toowoomba’s recovery and ongoing success,” she said.

“We have felt an overwhelming display of support from not just patrons, but from local businesses within the CBD.

“There is a real sense of support and genuine well-wishes from our neighbouring businesses and we all want to see each other succeed.”

Cork and Lever is located at 191 Margaret St.