Sometimes there are reasons that a Toowoombaite needs to go to Ipswich. We don’t have to talk about the reasons, but we do have to talk about the foodie situation that’s emerging there. One drive around town is all it takes to see our mates down the road are experiencing a similar urban foodie evolution to what’s happening in downtown Toowoomba.
If you’re hungry in Ipswich it’s best not to go past 4 Hearts Brewing Pumpyard Bar and Brewery. This local brewery has a wide selection of natural beer all brewed on site and free of any preservatives.
I can’t speak for the beer because I’m only about it when it’s battered onto chips. However, the beer battered chips I can speak for. They were that perfect mix of chunky, chewy and crunchy. You know what I’m talking about. My pulled pork burger was the business, absolutely full of flavour with a heapingly generous serve of pork.
My mate’s battered flathead and chips disappeared as quick as my burger. We did find it odd though that the flathead was $25, while the burger was $16. The size of the servings were comparable, so I felt like I’d scooped up a bargain with my burger and the fish seemed a little overpriced. Still, it’s not a dealbreaker. Next time we’ll all choose the burger.
The other highlight of 4 Hearts is the venue. It’s been restored wonderfully, staying true to the original industrial vibe. The 100 year old site was originally the site of water supply to Ipswich and later the Technical College. Exposed brickwork, tables with legs made from steel pipes, bathrooms fitted out with copper and the imposing shiny beer vats – it’s industrial chic heaven.
Keen to check 4 Hearts out? Now’s the time to head to town, the Ipswich Festival is on, with live music, activities for kids, public art, markets, an olive festival and of course fireworks. Check out the whole program at ipswichfestival.com.au, it’s on until Sunday 24 April.
4 Hearts is open Wednesday to Sunday from 12pm. It’s located in the heart of town – entry is via South Street. Visit 4heartsbrewing.com and find them on Facebook and Instagram.
