Biggera Waters to get a taste of culture

JUNE 2010
A PLAN to revitalise Biggera Waters with a $20 million gourmet food and dining marketplace is to be undertaken by Brisbane-based Essence Property Group.

The DA-approved Harbourside Market will open early next year opposite the popular Harbourtown Shopping Centre.

Designed to meet demand at the northern end of the Gold Coast, Harbourside Market is primed to emerge as a destination in its own right – offering a sophisticated fresh and organic food market and a range of fine dining choices.

Individual food boutiques including an authentic bakehouse, juice bar, traditional gelato bar, fresh fruit and veg market, a selection of organic produce, fresh seafood and a European deli will form the hub. Planned restaurants and a gourmet coffee house are expected to inject a new zest into the area.

Essence Property Group co-director Chris Giufre, says the aim is to create a sophisticated modern-day version of the traditional European marketplace experience.

“We wanted to replicate the feel of a bustling European marketplace, but with a modern-day warmth and sophistication,” he says.

“We want to be able to educate customers and have people appreciate fine foods. Harbourside Market will provide the most authentic foods from traditional, artisan producers, showcasing an array of gourmet specialty products including imported and local cheeses, charcuterie, oils, vinegars and antipastos.

“The focus will also be on exceptional customer service. Expert providores will be on hand to make recommendations to enhance food understanding and will be able to suggest the best food pairings for any occasion.”

Harbourside Market is a shared vision of the Giufre and Cortese families, the partners behind Essence Property Group.

Its expansive project portfolio features up-market lifestyle developments including apartments, townhouses, commercial shopping centres, hotels, retail precincts and commercial office developments.