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Sometimes, a building has so much character and personality that it inspires an entirely new concept, rather than the other way around.
And that’s exactly what’s happening at the historic Bowden Railway Station, where the charm of the historic building has sparked plans for an exciting new dining destination.
Previously home to the much-loved Loose Caboose café, the building has been snapped up by The Big Easy Group, the hospitality team behind some of Adelaide’s most iconic dining spots, including Anchovy Bandit, Tarantino’s and La Louisiane.
And while plans are still in their early stages, the group has shared some exciting details about what could be coming to this little corner of Adelaide.
The Big Easy Group co-founder Oliver Brown revealed that the team fell in love with the space, willing them to create something a little different.
“We were more inspired by the building itself to lead us towards the concept we wanted to do rather than looking for a space for a concept.”
With its beautiful heritage stonework, intimate interiors and position right alongside the railway tracks, the former station is brimming with old-world charm.
“I think that old heritage buildings have just this unique character in spades that is a lot more difficult to achieve in a new build.”
The team has been drawing inspiration from the railway lines that wind throughout Asia, particularly countries such as Vietnam and Thailand, where bustling train stations and historic buildings are a big part of culture.
“It’ll definitely be an Asian concept of some kind.”
While the exact direction is still being decided, the group intends to narrow the focus to Southeast Asian influences.
For a hospitality group best known for its Italian-inspired dining experiences, it’s an exciting route, although Oliver says Asian flavours and techniques have long played a part in the cooking at venues such as Anchovy Bandit and Tarantino’s.
The new concept will give the team an opportunity to explore those flavours in much richer detail.
Part of the building’s appeal is its size, with the former station naturally lending itself to something a little more intimate. Whether that becomes a cosy full-service restaurant, a relaxed wine bar or somewhere in between is still up in the air.
Although one thing is for sure.
Oliver said the finished concept will be unlike anything else currently operating in South Australia, both in its offering and design.
For now, the team is busy cleaning up the property, refining their ideas and preparing for the next chapter of the historic station, which still has plenty more stories to tell.
Where: Former Bowden Railway Station, 21 First Street, Hindmarsh
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