Aunty

With a line-up like Fatcow, Opa, Longwang, Stilts and Rich + Rare, you’d expect Tassis Group’s next move to be one for the books. So, it’s only fitting their latest announcement is a sophisticated modern Asian restaurant taking over an iconic Fortitude Valley location.

Aunty will transform the highly sought after space on Wandoo Street that previously held City Winery into a high-quality dining experience focusing on the rich culinary traditions of Asian cuisine. Reflecting the prestige of the James Street precinct while expanding its multicultural dining offerings, Aunty will combine classic techniques and contemporary flair to serve up staple dishes and innovative interpretations on a backdrop of deep greens, rich timbers and marble surfaces. 

“Aunty is elegant, but she’s not precious,” said Tassis Group founder Michael Tassis. “This is a venue that’s polished and considered, but still warm. It’s about confidence—knowing exactly who you are and doing it well.”

Bridging the gap between traditional Italian techniques and authentic Asian flavours will be acclaimed chef Salvatore de Ponte at the helm of Aunty’s kitchen.  

"Salvatore's approach to Cantonese-inspired cooking is both respectful and revolutionary," said Tassis. "He understands that great food is about more than just ingredients. It's about technique, timing, and an almost spiritual connection to the cooking process. His background gives him the technical skills to execute these dishes at the highest level, while his passion for Cantonese culture ensures authenticity and sophistication in every dish."

Menu highlights include a whole chilli mudcrab cooked to order from the live tank, ½ duck two ways, and char siu pork neck, as well as a dedicated dim sum menu with refined small plates and centre-of-table-worthy dishes to work your way through. Generous and designed to be shared, you can also expect banquets for effortless group dining (including a dedicated vegetarian banquet) brought to life with premium ingredients and traditional techniques. 

On the beverage front, Aunty is pouring a wine list that spans approximately 250 labels—reflecting the menu’s richness and restraint—plus bespoke cocktails drawing inspiration from Asian spirits and flavour profiles. Special occasions will find their home in the semi-private dining room, as the 100-seat restaurant creates intimate nooks and crannies with levels, booths and curtains featuring subtle references to mahjong tables and tables threaded throughout. 

It’s an offering designed to complement Tassis Group’s distinct portfolio while expanding the city’s multicultural dining scene in unprecedented ways. Plus, proving a good feed shouldn’t break the bank, diners are invited to enjoy a lunch special menu from $24 and a daily happy hour from 3pm to 5pm that includes a $12 lobster roll.

Book here.

Image credit: Aunty | Markus Ravik