The owner of a much-loved suburban cafe is preparing to open a new venture in a growing beachside hub.
After opening One Block Back at Moffat Beach in 2016, Jasmin Smith is preparing to open Stoa at Bokarina in the first week of November.
Ms Smith said she wanted to expand to be able to offer something new to her devoted customers.
“After eight years of trading at One Block Back, I was ready for a new challenge,” she told Sunshine Coast News.
“The incredible community support we’ve received over the years has motivated me to level up and bring even more to our customers.
“I wanted to take on a fresh challenge and expand our horizons, and Bokarina seemed like the perfect place to do just that.”
Ms Smith said Stoa – which takes its name from the term for a covered walkway with columns in Greek architecture – would aim to offer something different to One Block Back.
“While we aim to maintain a distinct identity for each venue, imagine our OBB menu elevated to a new level of sophistication,” she said.
Want more free local news? Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, and sign up for our FREE daily news email.
“Stoa’s restaurant side will offer a more refined dining experience, while our cafe section will showcase some of your OBB favourites.
“Both venues will provide unique experiences and different culinary delights, making it hard to choose between them.”
The new venture will occupy a space in the Zinc building, by developer Gardner Vaughan Group.
“The Zinc building caught our eye because of its prime location and the bustling energy of the surrounding area,” Ms Smith said.
“We believe it’s the perfect spot to bring our vision to life, creating a hub for great food and memorable experiences.”
Related story: Developer shaping suburb with twin projects
She said the venue, once finished, would be a “stunning space that feels both welcoming and sophisticated”, with offerings including tapas afternoons with live music, beer on tap, wine and cocktails.
“There is quite a lot involved in opening a venue: architects, engineers, approvals, design,” she said.
Ms Smith said jobs would be on offer at the new venture.
“We plan to recruit at least 20 new staff members, including waiters, chefs, cooks, baristas and all-rounders,” she said.
“Our current OBB staff will also work between both venues, ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining our high standards.”
One Block Back, located in what was once a tin shed on Nothling Street at Moffat Beach, has grown a loyal customer base since 2016 and will continue to operate once Stoa opens.
“We aim to keep One Block Back as it is because everyone loves it for what it is,” Ms Smith said.
“We want to maintain its charm while bringing something new and exciting to Bokarina with Stoa.
“As for future expansion, we never say never! Let’s see how things go.”
Like stories that inform, connect and celebrate the Sunshine Coast? So do we. Join an independent local news revolution by subscribing to our FREE daily news feed at the bottom of this article.
