Search underway for new owners to keep The Balcony restaurant’s legacy alive

Rich in old-world charm and a cornerstone of Townsville’s dining scene, this CBD restaurant needs a new owner to continue its proud legacy. Find out why.

Kelly and Luke Johnston at the Balcony Restaurant which is up for sale. Picture: Evan Morgan

A search is under way to find someone to step up and continue the proud, multi-decade legacy of Townsville’s popular CBD restaurant The Balcony.

Built in 1920, and occupied by Willmett’s Stationery Shop for many years, the historic building at 287 Flinders St became The Balcony Restaurant in the early 1980s, before it was purchased by the Johnston family in 2012.

A quiet oasis away from the bustle of the Townsville CBD, The Balcony is located upstairs at 287 Flinders Street, which has retained its old-world charm with gorgeous hardwood floors, a classic decorative fascia and an ornate balcony.

Over the past fourteen years, the owners have operated the venture as a highly successful lifestyle business, with daytime hours and a selective approach to functions and catering.

A chef by trade, who previously owned the Newmarket Hotel, Luke Johnston said he and his wife Kelly were drawn to The Balcony for the lifestyle after seeing how its restricted trading provided flexibility to raise a young family.

“The Balcony’s done us well. We’ve raised our children, picked them up from school in the afternoons, sent them on sporting missions … and we have nice things that we like, but I think that chapter in our lives is coming to an end,” Mr Johnston said.

“We’d like to pass it on to somebody enthusiastic to take the reins. After 15 years, I think everyone’s owed a change.

Luke and Kelly Johnston at the Balcony Restaurant which is up for sale. Picture: Evan Morgan

“There is so much opportunity here, from expanding evening dining and events, to building a premium catering arm. We’ve kept the business deliberately focused on lifestyle, but the potential is enormous.”

The restaurant has built a strong following thanks to their delicious Australian cuisine, where timeless dishes like their risottos and homemade hollandaise-enhanced breakfast benedicts have remained on the menu for decades, complemented by new favourites like their seafood chowder.

Risottos and steak sandwiches are two of The Balcony's crowd favourites. Picture: Supplied.

The Balcony's homemade hollandaise on its benedicts has breakfast diners coming back for more. Picture: Supplied.

“We often say, ‘Open the doors, and they will come,’ and that’s really been our experience,” Ms Johnston said.

“This business is built on loyalty and relationships. Many of our regulars have become friends and it’s a place that holds a special meaning for so many in the community.

“We’ll be proud to see someone new take the reins and continue the story of The Balcony. It’s more than just a business, it’s a part of Townsville’s heart.”

Kelly and Luke Johnston at the Balcony Restaurant which is up for sale. Picture: Evan Morgan

Originally published as Search underway for new owners to keep The Balcony restaurant’s legacy alive