Brisbane Events

Alice tumbles into the wonderland of Sofitel Brisbane Central

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:15:00 GMT

Sofitel Brisbane Central is proud to support Alice in Wonderland, the latest Queensland Ballet production to feature at Playhouse QPAC, with shows until 14th April 2012. The ballet is based on the much-loved children’s tale and includes the famed characters of Humpty Dumpty, Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts and the mischievous twins Tweedledum and Tweedledee.

Inspired by the vibrant set, Sofitel’s Cuvee Lounge Bar has been transformed into a wonder filled bar themed with pink flamingos, giant mushrooms, high tea sets and colourful butterflies reminiscent of the wonderland scenery.
A special ‘bad bunny’ Easter and Wonderland cocktail will feature at Cuvee Lounge until the 14th of April and is a chocoholic dream. Using cane rum, the chocolate inspired creation includes monin special chocolate liqueur, monin white chocolate liqueur and a dash of cream. Guests of Cuvee Lounge Bar can also enjoy exclusive access to the Easter dessert station at the adjacent Thyme2 Restaurant for just $28, including tea or coffee.

For booking, call (07) 3835 3535 or email H5992-fb09@sofitel.com

Sofitel's new high Tea gets the Parisian touch!

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:03:00 GMT

Babychino’s, free flowing hot chocolate, petit high tea’s and creations by France’s Chef of the year - Sofitel Brisbane Central caters for High Tea experts to the youngest of tastebuds.

The luxury hotel has recently launched a new High Tea menu, with sweet delights created by France’s Chef of the year Edouard Loubet, and a speciality children’s menu for petite taste buds.

“ Many of our regular High Tea goers are mothers who enjoy High Tea as part of ladies groups and often have their children with them. We have therefore created a version which includes endless hot chocolate and more appealing pastries for young tastebuds, resulting in our petite high tea,” says Sofitel Food and Beverage Director Pascal Tadin.

For an additional* $25, children aged up to 12 years can enjoy a petite high tea accompaniment; which includes a selection of petit ribbon sandwiches, a selection of friands and three pastries of the day, along with a complimentary juice or soft drink and endless hot chocolate.

Sofitel’s new adults only High Tea includes a glass of bubbles on arrival, classic ribbon sandwiches and homemade scones, along with a range of new additions that are set to have guests salivating for more. New items to grace the menu include verbena cup cakes, cappuccino chocolate mousse, lavender crème brûlée and opera slice with sugar diamond almond sponge soaked in coffee syrup and layered with ganache and coffee butter cream.

Food enthusiasts will delight at Edouard Loubet’s creations, with the famed French Chef inventing a black truffle cheesecake with cocoa crumb and a duo of delicate snow macaroons with raspberries especially for the new High Tea menu!

Hosted each day from 2 pm on level 30 of the hotel, Sofitel’s High Tea setting offers unrivalled panoramic skyline views of Brisbane city and surrounds. The weekend High Tea also offers an extra touch of richness, with a chocolate fountain available as part of the High Tea experience.

Sofitel High Tea, Monday to Friday $45.00 per adult, $35 per child
Saturday and Sunday $55 per adult and $45 per child, (includes bonus chocolate fountain and chocolate platter).

Terms and Conditions - High Tea Etiquette
Bookings are essential and subject to availability. Reservations for 4 guests or more must be prepaid 48 hours in advance. Petite High Tea available for children aged up to 12 years and only in the company of parent or guardian who have ordered regular high tea. Children must be supervised by parent or guardian at all times. Gluten free options are available, pre-booking is required. Sofitel High Tea includes a complimentary glass of Australian sparkling wine or non-alcoholic beverage on arrival, coffee, Ronnefeldt tea or flavoured fruit infusions.

For reservation call, 07 3835 3535 or email H5992-FB09@sofitel.com

Celebrate Mothers' Day with High Tea Couture

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:44:00 GMT

Bubbles on arrival, fashion couture, high tea and luxury Parisian inspired surrounds will ensure for an unforgettable experience this Mothers Day.

Sofitel Brisbane Central will play host to a magnifique Mothers Day High Tea on Sunday 13th May. The event will see guests enjoying patisserie creations by the hotels award winning Chefs, and admiring more than 90 years of fashion history in a special couture showcase by Darnell Collection.

Guests will enjoy a gastronomic tower of delicious sweets and petite finger sandwiches from the new High Tea menu, along with free flow sparkling, and live entertainment – in luxury surrounds overlooking Anzac Park and the Central Clock Tower.

A fashion timeline will set the scene for the vintage themed celebration, with the Darnell Collection boasting an inspiring range, including a 1930’s crepe dress and Bo Peep hat, and a 1960’s wool suit collection with pieces from Yves St Laurent, Chanel and Dior. Furniture from the unique France Boutique will also be on display, adding to the classic vintage theme.

Sofitel Mothers Day High Tea starts from $55 per adult and $29 per child. Three sittings available, prices may vary*. *Mothers Day High Tea Sittings Sunday 13th May 2012
11.00am, $55 Adult $29 Children or $500 for a table of 10 adults
2.00pm, $59 Adult - $29 Children or $550 for a table of 10 adults
5.00pm, Sunset Mumm Champagne High Tea $55 per Adult $29 Children or $500 for a table of 10 adults

In addition to High Tea extravagance, Sofitel’s Thyme² Interactive lunch offer will impress lovers of seafood, with a special seafood station on offer for the occasion. Guests will also receive a cocktail on arrival, and a pink rose for Mum.
Thyme 2 Luncheon includes live entertainment. Sittings from 12noon
$99 Adult and $49 Children. Advantage Plus welcome.

Terms and Conditions: Pre-payment required. Bookings essential.
Email: H5992-FB09@sofitel.com or call 07 3835 3535

Sofitel lights the way for Earth Hour

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 07:43:00 GMT

Sofitel Brisbane Central will partake in the global Earth Hour initiative on Saturday 31st March from 8.30pm.

The multi award winning Prive249 will play host to a special candlelit dinner, with a menu featuring a delectable choice of cuisine including crisp carpaccio of courgette, soft goat’s curd, provincial inspired lamb and jasmine brûlée.

Cuvee Lounge Bar will be lit with an abundance of tea light candles, setting a romantic mood for a cozy pre-dinner cocktail or two. An Earth Hour inspired creation, the Earth Side cocktail, will be offered for the night and features gin, mint, lime and dark sugar.

Guests looking for an overnight luxury stay can take advantage of the Breakfast Drive Package, which includes overnight accommodation, a welcome drink, breakfast for two and car parking. From $285 – it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate a candlelit earth hour with a touch of French elegance.

This is the fourth year that Sofitel Brisbane Central has been involved in Earth Hour. The property will be switching off external Sofitel signage, lobby lights and major restaurant and bar lighting in support of the global initiative.

Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney, when 2.2 million homes and businesses turned their lights off for one hour to make their stand against climate change. Earth Hour 2010 takes place on Saturday 31st March at 8.30pm (local time) and is a global call to action to every individual, every business and every community throughout the world. It is a call to stand up, to take responsibility, to get involved and lead the way towards a sustainable future. Iconic buildings and landmarks from Europe to Asia to the Americas will stand in darkness in celebration and of one thing, our planet.

Spice up your life at Sofitel Brisbane with Thyme2 Restaurant

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:51:00 GMT

Explore the exciting flavours of Asia at Thyme2 Interactive Restaurant in a spicy Asian showcase from Monday 5th March until Sunday 1st April. Sofitel’s popular restaurant has added a fresh twist on traditional Asian cuisine, offering diners an enhanced selection of Malaysian, Chinese and Thai dishes to the extensive menu.
The Asian themed menu will boast several signature favourites, including Sambal Udang (spicy prawns), Num Tok Mu Yang (grilled spicy pork and onion), Nasi Lemak (coconut rice), Chinese Egg Noodles with Smoked Duck and Snow Peas, and a selection of innovative Pad Thai creations.

“Although we have always a offered a selection of worldly cuisine, our Asian theme encourages guests to explore a more varied menu of traditional and authentic dishes,” says Sofitel’s Executive Chef Patrice Falantin.
“Our restaurant décor has also taken on a new charm with specialty decorations and Asian dining features creating a fun atmosphere end new environment for our guests”, adds Falantin.
Executive Chef Jack Wu of Sofitel Wanda Ningbo will join Thyme2 Restaurant during March to celebrate the Chinese themed showcase. Teaching the traditional tricks of the trade to the Sofitel Brisbane kitchen brigade, Chef Wu will also showcase his skills in daily cooking demonstrations for Thyme2 diners.

The specialty Chinese themed promotion commences Monday March 5th until Sunday March18th, followed by an exciting Thai concept from Monday March 19th until Sunday April 1st.
Lunch starts from $59 per person, with dinner from $69 per person. Reservations essential. www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au or phone 07 3935 3535. Advantage Plus members welcome.

The French Film Festival with that ‘je ne sais quoi’ returns for 2012

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:54:00 GMT

From modest beginnings in 1989, the ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL has emerged as one of the pre-eminent events on Australia’s cultural calendar.
This beloved national celebration of French cinema, which will take place in Brisbane from 14 March until 1
April, welcomed a record-breaking 130,000 attendees during its 2011 season and for its 23rd outing will feature over 1,300 sessions at 17 locations across the country. Proudly presented by the Alliance Française in association with the French Embassy in Australia and the gracious support of Gold Sponsor Peugeot, the 2012 programme incorporates 9 eclectic sections dedicated to a host of universal themes, certain to entice the ‘bon vivant’ in us all!
Launching the 2012 Festival will be Declaration of War (La Guerre est déclarée) a powerful tale selected as
France’s official submission for the 2012 Academy Awards. Based on real-life events, Declaration of War, will screen courtesy of Palace Films, and is the compelling tale of a young Parisian couple whose carefree existence is suddenly shattered by an unexpected twist of fate. A massive box office success in its native France, Declaration of War is just one of the fantastic 45 films and documentaries on offer in this year’s line-up, which will also include a closing night presentation of François Truffault’s 1980 classic, The Last Metro starring Catherine Deneuve, Gérard Depardieu and Jean Poiret. Winner of 10 César Awards, The Last Metro embodies all that is great about French cinema and, like the Festival, has stood the test of time.

For booking and session details, visit the Festival's official website at:
http://www.affrenchfilmfestival.org/

Bocuse D'Or Australia

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 06:55:00 GMT

Brisbane Club Executive chef Shannon Kellam was last night selected to represent Australia in the 2013
Bocuse d’Or International Cooking Competition, known as the greatest World Cuisine contest in Lyon in
France, the 29th and the 30th January, organised by Romain Bapst President Bocuse D’Or Australia and his
committee.
Shannon and his assistant chef, Richard Pascoe also winner of the best commis were selected as Team
Australia for the biennial world chef championships from a strong field of three teams from Victoria, and
Queensland, including former international competition winners, held at the Southbank Tafe in Brisbane
yesterday.
A team of 25 international, interstate and Brisbane judges Presided by the Patron of the Australian Bocuse
D’Or Mr. John Miller (OAM) and Black hat, Chief Judge Keith McNeil, two stars Michelin and 2011 French chef of the year Edouard Loubet and some of Australia’s most respected chefs, Tetsuya Wakuda Tetsuya’s Sydney and Singapore, Philippe Mouchel of PM 24 Melbourne, Kym Machin and David Pugh from Brisbane made their selection during a five and a half hour cooking marathon yesterday.
Tetsuya Wakuda and Edouard Loubet described the event as a triumph for the organisers, and the level of
the candidates was of a great international standard. Edouard Loubet is sponsored by Sofitel Brisbane
Central as guest chef; you can discover his culinary delights “Un voyage en Provence” from the 22nd
February to the 10th of March 2012 at Sofitel’s Restaurant Prive 249.
The announcement was made at the Bocuse d’Or four chef’s Presentation Dinner held in Brisbane at the
Convention Centre last night. The dinner was organised by the Academie Culinaire de France (Australie) with
the fantastic chef’s Tetsuya Wakuda, Edouard Loubet, Tony Bilson, pastry chef Pierrick Boyer and Brisbane
Convention and Exhibition Centre executive chef Martin Latter and his team.
The Bocuse d’Or (Concours mondial de la cuisine – world cuisine contest) considered the world’s most
prestigious cooking competition has become the most sought after prize for young chefs world-wide and
provides a professional springboard for young talent in international gastronomy.
Shannon will train under the Academie Culinaire de France chef’s and under guidance of Bocuse D’Or
Australia coach and 2012 new 3 Michelin star Chef Emmanuel Renaut from Les Flocons de Sel in Megève
France. Emmanuel will fly to Australia in May to train Shannon and to support the organisation.
The runner-up Andrew Ballard from Crown Casino Melbourne will fly to Paris in October this year to compete at the prestigious Trophee Passion competition in Paris organised by the Academie Culinaire of France and President Gerard Dupont. Andrew will train under the Academie Culinaire de France (Australie) Victorian members.

Michelin Star Guest Chef arrives at Prive249

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 03:36:00 GMT

From extreme mountain sports to the summits of French Gastronomy, acclaimed Two Star Michelin Chef Edouard Loubet will showcase his culinary fare at an exclusive degustation evening at Privé 249 on Wednesday 22nd February from 6:30pm.
Guests attending the event will enjoy a carefully prepared seven-course journey of gastronomy by French born Loubet, along with wine pairing by Restaurant Manager Wendy Hawkins-Leslie.

Edouard describes his style in three words ‘simplicity, smoothness and lightness.’
“I fight against heaviness”, the Chef insists.

A master of his craft, Loubet is a Two Michelin Star Chef, and boasts four hats at his restaurant Gault et Millau Domaine de Capelongue in Bonnieux France. Loubet was also awarded the coveted title of French Chef of the Year in 2011 by Gault Millau, one of the most influential restaurant guides in France.

Born in Val Thorens, Loubet was a professional member of the French Alpin ski team, before the family tradition (his mother owns the Fitz Roy in Val Thorens) influenced his move to the kitchen.

Shortly after completing his culinary studies Loubet traveled to the United States and Canada. During his travels he constantly wrote to the owners of all three star restaurants listed in the Michelin guide in his homeland of France, in the hope of securing a position on his return.

Impressed by his persistence and enthusiasm, Alain Chapel at Mionnay offered him a role, and from there Edouard moved throughout the French restaurant scene learning from the leaders in his field, including Marc Veyrat of Annecy (where his passion for herbs was born), Pierre Orsi (La Mère Brazier) and Philippe Chavent (La Tour Rose).

“Edouard has personally designed a very special menu for the evening. It is unlike anything we have offered before and the team and I am thrilled that we can work alongside Edouard and introduce his style of cuisine to our guests. It will be quite an experience,” says Prive’s Executive Sous Chef Craig Napper.
Lobster Soup infused with Wild Vervain, Complicity of Foie Gras, Chanterelle Mushrooms Mousse and iced soup of bitter chocolate with floating islands of yarrow meringue and ice cream are just a few of the elements to appear throughout the seven course event.
Tickets for the event are $249 per person, which includes expert wine pairing. Bookings for ‘Dinner with Edouard Loubet’ are essential and can be made by contacting 07 3835 3535. Tickets are strictly limited.
Following the exclusive evening with Edouard Loubet, Craig Napper and the team of Privé 249 will offer a selection of Edouards dishes from Thursday 23rd February to Saturday 10th March for a special 3 course dining option for $99 (excluding wine pairing). Bookings via 07 3835 3535.
Privé 249 offers a sexy, smart and private dining experience. All the senses are engaged with magical views, sublime flavours, smart service and striking décor.
Floor to ceiling windows frame magnificent city views overlooking Brisbane Central Clock Tower and the historic Anzac Square. By day natural light streams through the windowed wall and by night the mood is transformed with dramatic Italian chandeliers. Black glass tabletops are set with white china and Italian titanium cutlery, a striking mix of gold and silver.

Valentines Day at Sofitel Brisbane Central

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 03:13:00 GMT

No one does romance better than the French, so this Valentines Day book a stay at Sofitel Brisbane Central and experience art de vivre with the exclusive Sofitel Magnifique Romance Package.

Enjoy luxurious comfort in an elegantly appointed room, a bottle of Mumm, a surprise valentine gift on arrival, and breakfast in bed for you and your loved one. From just $305 per night, Sofitel’s Romance Package is the perfect excuse for a luxury inner city escape.

The hotels award winning dining outlets boast a mouth watering selection of cupid approved dining specials, with both Thyme2 Interactive Restaurant and Privé 249 offering Valentine inspired menus during select days in February. Thyme2 will offer pre-valentines seafood dining specials from Saturday 11th February, with complimentary bubbles on arrival and a live harpist performer entertaining guests on select evenings.

The multi award winning Privé 249 has an exclusive six-course Valentine degustation menu created by Executive Sous Chef Craig Napper. The menu will be available for one night only, Tuesday 14th February at $149 per person and features a summer berry and rose petal sorbet dessert, which is sure to be a winner with valentine diners.

The seductive décor of Privé 249 offers the perfect setting for a romantic evening, with the ambient glow of candlelight, city views, personal service and sublime flavours making the perfect recipe for an unforgettable Valentines Day.

Cuveé Lounge Bar has developed a speciality Valentines cocktail to celebrate the month of love. The Passion pour la Rose is a delicate combination of Hennessy VS and Vanilla Liquor 43. Shaken with fresh passion fruit, scented with rose petal, and accompanied by a Sparkling Rosé chaser – a must for couples to sample during their stay.

For reservations contact Sofitel Brisbane Central via 07 3835 3535 or visit www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au
Terms & Conditions: Romance package subject to availability. For Bookings contact hotel direct or visit www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au.Full dining details available online at sofitelbrisbane.com.au, including entertainment dates and Valentines menus.

ACCOR CELEBRATES CHINESE NEW YEAR

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 01:56:00 GMT

With Chinese New Year approaching, Accor has announced that 20 of its hotels in Australia have achieved Chinese Optimum Service Standards to enable to them to better cater for the growing inbound market from China. Accor is the first hotel group in Australia to introduce these standards, which will enable accredited hotels to meet the expectations of Chinese travellers with the inclusion of Chinese dishes on menus, Chinese newspapers and television channels, Chinese language welcome kits, Chinese adaptors and more to make guests from China feel at home.

An integral component of the Optimum Service Standards is special training for Accor’s staff in cultural differences that will assist them to more respectfully serve Chinese guests. Accor has also introduced Indian Optimum Service Standards for visitors from that country.

Last year Accor saw an 18.3% increase on Chinese guests and this year is expecting even higher numbers, especially with the dramatic increase in flights from China thanks to the growth of flights to Australia by airlines such as China Southern, Air Asia, Jetstar, Scoop and others. Indeed interest from the Chinese market is so high that next week will see the arrival of the first ever charter flight from China to Ayers Rock Resort, which is now part of the Accor network.

Not only is China set to be Australia’s number one source of visitors in coming years, but already Chinese tourists are our biggest spenders, contributing $3.1 billion to the economy in 2010 and a predicted $6 billion by 2020, almost twice as much as Australia’s second biggest market, the UK.

“We have already seen the impact that our Chinese Optimum Service Standards have made in terms of bookings and we expect the number of accredited hotels to at least double during 2012,” said Accor Vice President Australia Simon McGrath. “We need to show that we not only want the Chinese market but that we are pulling out all stops to provide them the best possible service when they get here.

“Chinese visitors are increasingly sophisticated and they have high expectations in terms of service,” he said. “Accor has introduced specific training that will ensure our staff are attuned to the sensitivities and preferences of our Chinese guests so that they experience Australia in the best way possible.”

Hotels that offer the Optimum Service Standards are: Pullman Reef Casino Cairns, Novotel Cairns, Novotel Palm Cove Resort, All Seasons Cairns, All Seasons Cairns Colonial Club, Sofitel Brisbane, Sofitel Gold Coast, Mercure & Ibis Brisbane, Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour, Ibis Darling Harbour, Mercure Sydney Potts Point, Ibis World Square, Pullman, Novotel & Ibis Sydney Olympic Park, Novotel Melbourne on Collins, Ibis Melbourne, Novotel St Kilda.

Accreditation Program for Chinese Visitation and Service

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:11:00 GMT

Sofitel Brisbane Central has embarked on an exciting new initiative in order to capture a new market segment by becoming an accredited hotel provider for the Chinese market. The hotel has started to implement a number of initiatives throughout the hotel to attract this niche clientele.
General manager Tony Chisholm’s experience with the Asian and Chinese market has assisted in implementing the concept, especially when it comes to the staff cultural awareness and training. Sofitel Brisbane Central has added Chinese inspired food stations at Thyme2 Breakfast, and Chinese newspapers are printed daily and available to guests via various outlets. Special Chinese inspired amenities have also been introduced and the in-room compendium is now supplied in a Chinese version.

CONFERENCE ORGANISERS SAY BONJOUR IN PARIS

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 03:54:00 GMT

Confirm your next conference at Sofitel Brisbane Central and you could be enjoying a business class holiday to the city of lights.

Conference organisers who book and hold a residential conference to the minimum value of $50,000 before 30^th June 2012* at Sofitel Brisbane Central will have the chance to win a luxury escape to Paris, flying business class with Emirates. The prize includes return airfares for two adults, and five nights luxury accommodation at Sofitel Le Faubourg Paris, a flagship property for the luxury hotel brand.

Professional Conference Organisers (PCO’s) don’t need to look far for their inspiration, with the hotel currently boasting an exclusive Fashion Stills exhibition from the famous Polka Galerie in Paris. The exhibit has been touring with Sofitel Luxury Hotels throughout the year and is on display at Sofitel Brisbane until December.

A custom made gallery was constructed for the exhibition and offers conference organisers a unique space for up to 40 guests to enjoy cocktail style functions and pre or post conference events.

The artistic works of the gallery will see delegates mingling with a fashionable crowd of famous faces, such as Karl Lagerfeld, Carla Bruni and Kate Moss. Star photographers, Derek Hudson, Francoise Huguier, Jean-Marie Périer and Gérard Uféras have all succeeded in capturing unique moments on the couture catwalk; evident in the shots of Dior, Chanel, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Yves St Laurent, Christian Lacroix and Givenchy.

An exclusive Polka Fashion Stills inspired conference menu of cocktails and canapés will add to the Parisian touch, with Polaktini’s, High Tea and Fashion branded macaroons certain to be a hit amongst attendees.

General Manager Tony Chisholm says, “The gallery offers yet another space for conference and event organisers to host their events and is an experience that their guests can’t get anywhere else – it truly is unique.”

“Sofitel is an ambassador of French culture and French elegance and we’re thrilled to host the exhibition. Fashion Stills is a world class collection and reflects our commitment to the arts and our passion for offering guests memorable experiences when they visit our hotel”, ends Chisholm.

Fashion Stills will be on display to the public at Sofitel Brisbane Central in a custom deigned gallery on the lobby level until Monday December 26^th 2011.

The perfect domain for the corporate traveller, Sofitel Brisbane Central features 11 magnificent technically advanced conference venues catering for ten to 1100 delegates. Located in the CBD with extensive views over the city and direct rail access to the airport via Central Station, Sofitel offers unparalleled city centre convenience.

The extensive floor space caters for trade shows on a dedicated conference level, to international events in its pillar-less ballroom. Smaller, more intimate functions and meetings can be accommodated in boardrooms equipped with high speed internet, built-in projection and plasma screens, multiple phone and data outlets, DVD players, refrigerators and espresso coffee making facilities.

High speed Internet access, video conferencing, technical services and support teams ensure all events held at Sofitel Brisbane Central reach the highest of international standards. A dedicated team of knowledgeable Conference and Event Managers and a dedicated Conference Concierge are on hand and readily available to ensure perfection with all events.

Additional hotel facilities include Sofitel Club Lounge, a Business Centre, Cuvèe Lounge Bar, Thyme² Interactive Restaurant, the multi award winning Privé249, SoFit Gymnasium, an outdoor pool and Stephanie's Spa Retreat, which was recently awarded Best Hotel Day Spa in Australasia.

Advanced production tools, the hotel ‘theme team’, state-of-the-art boardrooms and award winning banquet chefs combine to make a long lasting and unique impressions on all attendees. Allow the team to inspire your next conference. Take advantage of the amazing conference offer today and you could be enjoying croissants in Paris.

For enquiries please contact the hotels dedicated Conference and Catering Department via (07) 3835 3535, visit www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au or email h5992-sb1@sofitel.com

* Terms and conditions: Book and hold a residential conference to the minimum value of $50,000 before 30th June 2012. Go into the draw to win a 5 night luxury escape for 2 people to Sofitel Le Faubourg in Paris, including return business class flights with Emirates.

Macarons, Fashion and Sofitel Flair

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:27:00 GMT

For Release Monday 26th September: Sofitel Brisbane Central invites you to attend a spectacular Melbourne Cup affair on Tuesday 1st November at Sofitel Ballroom le Grand. Guests will join the Classic Hits 4KQ Breakfast crew presenters Laurel Edwards, Gray Clare and Mark Hine for a stylish Melbourne Cup soirée of race day action, gourmet cuisine and spectacular fashions.

Guests will enjoy the excitement of the Melbourne Cup events on the Sofitel ballroom cinema screens, whilst indulging in Moet & Chandon on arrival, a gourmet three course feast by Executive Chef Patrice Falantin, free flow sparkling and a selection of wine and beer throughout the day.

Char-grilled fillet of beef with mushroom, pommes parisiennes, baby leeks and confit baby beetroot; and Corne Bay barramundi fillet with crispy polenta, buttered peas, pink radishes, white asparagus and watercress veloute will delight the taste buds of attendees. Sweet toothed guests can also enjoy berry mousse, pistachio and white chocolate cream desserts, along with a selection of race day macaroons.

Fashion previews by style guru’s id couture will feature the designs of Bora, Dogstar, Foxton Danger, Sharka Bosakova, Tilly Row, Wil Valor and Subfusco. Kip and Brand, Rachel Howard Millinary and Natalie Jane Millinary will lead the way in accessories and headwear, culminating in a spectacular event of spring summer styles set to impress both the fillies and stallions of the crowd!

Fashions on the field will be in hot demand and one lucky guest will win a fantastic five night escape for two at Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa located on beautiful Denarau Island, including return airfares for two with Air Pacific and breakfast daily.

The dance floor won’t be lonely with popular Brisbane band ‘Out There’ playing an impressive repertoire of covers from old time classics to today’s chart topping hits.

Sofitel Brisbane Central Ballroom le Grand, Tuesday1st November 2011 11.30am until 3.30pm. Tickets limited so book now. Early bird $155pp or $1500 for table of 10 (until 12th October). Regular ticket price $180 per person or $1750 table of 10.

Reservations and full menu details available via www.sofitelbrisbane.com.au, or available by contacting the hotel direct via 07 3835 3535.

Polka Fashion Stills launches at Sofitel Brisbane Central

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:21:00 GMT

More than 120 guests gathered at Sofitel Brisbane Central on Thursday evening to celebrate the official launch of Fashion Stills, an exclusive photographic exhibition from the famous Polka Galerie in Paris. Featuring works by the worlds most famed fashion photographers, the images showcase the iconic faces of Kate Moss, Karl Legerfeld and Yves St Laurent.

As guests anticipated the official red curtain opening they were treated to a runway showcase by styling extrodinaires ID Couture, with designs by Foxton Danger, Subfusco and George Wu gracing the catwalk in spectacular style.
Hair and makeup students from the Australian Institute of Creative Design, along with photographic talent from Design College Australia took part in the production, proving that local ‘fashionable’ talent has a healthy heartbeat in Brisbane.

As the red curtains were drawn guests were invited to view the exhibition in the custom designed gallery created in the lobby of the hotel. Enjoying French bubbles and a selection of Chefs canapés, inspired guests lined up for their turn in the private poloroid photo booth to capture their own black and white memory of the night. Fashion Stills will be on display to the public at Sofitel Brisbane Central until Monday December 26th 2011.

For details on the fashions showcased at the Fashion Stills launch please see following:

Styling
idcouture: www.idcouture.com

Designers:
Foxton Danger: www.foxtondanger.com.au
Subfusco: www.subfuco.com
George Wu: www.georgewu.com.au

Shoes:
Tom Gunn: www.tomgunn.com
Vein: www.veinwear.com

Thank you to the Diploma of styling students
Australian Institute of Creative Design www.aicdedu.com.au

Prive249 adds an Australian flavour to the kitchen

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:33:00 GMT

For release Tuesday 6th September: Sofitel’s multi award winning restaurant Privé 249 has appointed Australian born Craig Napper to the role of Executive Sous Chef.

A local to the Gold Coast and Brisbane restaurant scene, Napper brings more than 20 years food and beverage experience to the popular fine dining venue. Previously holding positions with in Brisbane with Augustines on George and Restaurant Baguette, Napper has also worked in several five star hotels throughout Europe.

Cooking pancakes for Leonardo DiCaprio, making munchie packs for rocker Lenny Kravitz and assisting Gordan Ramsey at the Hyatt Carlton in London, Nappers international experience is star studded to say the least.

“Privé 249 is a new chapter in my culinary career. I’m really excited to be overseeing the boutique operation of a fine dining outlet and combining my knowledge of Australian flavours with the French influenced menu,” says Napper.

“I aim to continue the use of Queensland produce and will work closely with local suppliers to ensure we offer guests the best products available in the market. I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge with the talented team of young chefs at the hotel and working with them on creating new and inspiring menus for our guests,” adds Napper.

“The combination of limitless resources, expansive access to the best products on the market and state of the art equipment means we’ll be bringing several innovative surprises to the menu in the months to come,” ends Napper.

“We’re really proud to have Craig on board and leading the charge for Privé 249,” says General Manager Tony Chisholm.

“We have a strong brigade of French Chefs throughout the entire hotel and our Privé 249 Sous Chef, Josh Okord, boasts a distinct French flair to his cooking. The appointment of Craig will not only help guide our younger Chefs, but also bring to the mix a new world Australian influence,” adds Chisholm

Seating up to 52 guests, Privé 249 offers a sexy, smart and private dining experience. All the senses are engaged with magical views, sublime flavours, smart service and striking décor.

Floor to ceiling windows frame magnificent city views overlooking Brisbane Central Clock Tower and the historic Anzac Square. By day natural light streams through the windowed wall and by night the mood is transformed with dramatic Italian chandeliers. Black glass tabletops are set with white china and Italian titanium cutlery, a striking mix of gold and silver.

Privé 249 is currently operating for lunch Tuesday to Friday, and Tuesday to Saturday for dinner service. Entrée’s from $24 and mains from $35, guests are spoilt for choice with Privé 249 also boasting an impressive five course tasting menu and extensive wine list. Bookings are recommended and can be made by contacting Sofitel direct, 07 3835 3535.