Gauge

For those fond of Teneriffe hot spot Sourced Grocer, Gauge is a sure bet. A soft spot for industrial design lead Jerome Batten – who owns both venues – to create this calm and clean space on Grey Street.

A sparse, communal table is in the middle of the dining area. It’s surrounded by bench seating and smaller tables for two to take advantage of the people-watching viewpoint.

The lighting is soft, yet effective, and marries well with the natural sunlight that floods the space. Parking can be an issue, but it’s something regular Fish Lane visitors should be accustomed to.

Gauge’s menu challenges diners. Mostly designed to share, it’s a mix of local, familiar items partnered with more daring, unusual ingredients – for example, raw Mooloolaba prawn with sesame milk, shellfish oil and ice plant.

The “garlic bread” with burnt vanilla and brown butter is so popular, it may as well be automatically added to the bill. It’s another example of a confusing yet texturally delightful dish.

Coffee is also a particular focus, with Coffee Supreme supplying the beans. Southbank business folk ensure there’s a constant stream of takeaways, both of espresso and selections from the “Rare and Interesting” range for filter.