Brisbane’s CBD is not known for child friendly dining, yet there is one restaurant in the heart of the city that has provided just that since the 70s, and is still going strong.
Stumped? We’re talking about The Pancake Manor on Charlotte Street which is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week to fill hungry tummies with delicious pancakes, crepes and salads.
Pancake Manor: The History
The Pancake Manor is housed in a church building, formerly St Luke’s Cathedral, built in 1904 by John Steward and Company. This detailed brick building with its magnificent arches and roof has also been the headquarters for the Anglican Church Mission and underneath was a club room for “newspaper boys”. The stained glass windows and craftsmanship evident in this historic building make it a fun and quirky setting for a pancake restaurant.
Pancake Manor: What to Expect Today
In 1979, the building was refurbished and the Pancake Manor opened, serving breakfast to hungry families, late night snacks to party goers and everything in between. In 2004, the Good Knight Bar below the restaurant in the old newspaper boy’s club room was opened. In keeping with its historic theme, the restaurant has knight armour on display and church pews for seating. There is also a pool table that children are welcome to play on. The downside is that after operating for 35 years as a restaurant, the décor and facilities are looking tired and are in need of a facelift.
Pancake Manor: The Food
Let’s get your mouths watering. Think pancakes or waffles with grilled bananas, butterscotch sauce, cream and vanilla ice-cream. Or from the children’s menu, most kids will love the “Funny Face” pancake with marshmallows, strawberries, vanilla ice-cream, chocolate sauce and strawberry jam. If you are wanting a meal, there are breakfast pancakes with sausages and eggs, salads, burgers and a range of savoury crepes, including the Mexicana, served with spicy beef, sour cream and tomato salsa. The children’s menu also offers meals such as the Pizza Power pancake with ham, cheese and tomato sauce. If it’s a beautiful day, takeaway is available, so you can enjoy your food in the nearby Botanical Gardens.
Pancake Manor: The Facts
- Highchairs available
- Toilets with baby change table
- Reservations welcomed, but not essential
- Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks (fully licensed)
- Open seven days per week, 24 hours per day
- Gluten free and vegetarian pancakes/crepes available
- Children’s colouring in competition provided, with prizes to be won
The Pancake Manor is located at 18 Charlotte Street in Brisbane’s Central Business District. For bookings, phone (07) 3221 6433.
For more family friendly cafes, check out our other reviews of great places to eat out with the kids in Brisbane.
Louise Heath
is there any parking nearby?