Paul McGivern and partner Bailee Dewes have announced the sale of their east Brisbane venue The Wolfe, with local chef Josue Lopez taking the reins.
McGivern and Dewes will continue to operate La Lune Wine Co, in South Brisbane’s Fish Lane precinct. “After 30 years in the kitchen, it’s the right time for me to step back and focus on a new project in a new role,” McGivern says. “It’s a relief to see The Wolfe go to such a familiar face in the Brisbane restaurant industry.”
Lopez, who has worked at high profile restaurants such as Noma, will introduce subtle changes to the menu while maintaining The Wolfe’s strong focus on produce. The 2016 Brisbane Times Good Food Guide Chef of the Year is passionate about showcasing produced grown and farmed in the local region, including native ingredients.
“I have respected Paul as a chef from his days at Rapide and known him for a number of years, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to continue to build on this great suburban restaurant, which is much loved,” Lopez says.
Wine will have a strong focus on Champagne and Burgundy, as well as Australian and New Zealand wines, with a nod to Queensland producers.
“It’s always hard to say goodbye to a venue but I’m truly looking forward to seeing what Josh puts up,” McGivern says.