Revitalised Mistys is ready for next chapter

From Doug and Cate Patterson 

In its heyday, Misty’s was a ‘destination restaurant’. People drove up from the coast and Brisbane, not to visit Montville, but to have a meal at Mistys. Some great chefs, like Helen Brierty and Nicole Vertuel, created amazing meals prepared in a tiny cubbyhole of a kitchen and served them in a quirky, historic ambience that ensured a memorable experience. Patrons usually stayed the night in Montville, but they came to experience Misty’s dining.

When Misty’s chased a ‘trendy’ reputation, with craft beer and live music, it chased a younger clientele looking for a different experience. It sought to attract a ‘tourist customer base’ at the expense of providing a dining experience. It entered a very different, very competitive market and struggled. 

Misty’s, the building was tired and needed major rejuvenation work – much more than a face-lift. Two years later, Misty’s is ready to host a new venture. At the heart of the upgrade renovations is a large, well-equipped, modern commercial kitchen which would have past chefs drooling. 

As a result, the ground floor has been reconfigured to create two main dining areas with carpeted steps providing access to a group dining space on the first floor and an intimate small group dining option in the now enclosed second floor lookout. The retention of original hardwood flooring, cypress pine walls and past restaurant features has recaptured the original ambience of Misty’s.

Misty’s is ready to reclaim its reputation as a destination restaurant. All it needs is a chef with the vision and skill to serve a meal that people will drive a hundred kilometres to experience. This historic, heritage building is ready and waiting. The question is who will accept the challenge?