Portside Wharf in Brisbane’s north-east suburb of Hamilton has spurred a wave of retail leases in the precinct during the past 12 months, with 14 new tenants securing over 2,200 square metres of space.

Portside Wharf is undergoing a $20 million enhancement program which includes the launch of a retailer grants and incentives initiative, offering packages of up to $500,000 each for retailers to establish at Portside.

Brookfield Properties executive vice president, Lee Butterworth said leasing enquires had increased 750% since the release of the campaign which aims to curate a sustainable village environment with like-minded retailers.

“The redevelopment has breathed new life into the residential and retail precinct, giving locals renewed reason to visit Portside Wharf, with many retailers quick to take advantage,” he said.

“A string of high-profile new venue openings, grants and incentives and the 2032 Olympics glittering on the horizon has proven a winning combination for business owners who have seized the opportunity to secure their spot.

“The calibre of venues we’ve attracted during the past 12 months is testament to our careful curation for Portside Wharf’s regeneration.”

This year’s new additions include Choo Choo Sushi, which opened in February, while Brisbane restaurateur, David Wang is completing fit-out on two establishments, noodle spot, Sugee Ramen and chic Chinese restaurant and bar, Uncle Wang, both anticipated to open mid-April.

Wang said his commitment to the combined 197 square metre lease was driven by Portside Wharf’s riverside renaissance and surging popularity.

“I’ve always thought Portside Wharf’s waterfront location and its surrounding community would be a great fit for one of my venues. After hearing about the enhancement program, I knew it was the right time to secure a tenancy,” he said.

“Our team eagerly await the opening of our first Sugee Ramen and our second Uncle Wang restaurant and can’t wait to welcome local and returning customers.”

Gastropub Portside Social’s fit-out of its new 224 square metre venue is also about to commence, ahead of an anticipated mid-year opening.

Brisbane hospitality royalty Michael Tassis also recognised the rare opportunity to open a restaurant at what is one of only a handful of waterfront locations in Brisbane, taking 412 square metres overlooking the Brisbane River for his seafood restaurant, Fosh, which opened in August 2023 following a $3 million fit-out.

Portside Wharf was initially established in 2006. The redevelopment and introduction of the new Gallery House and Rivello spaces has increased this to 13,877 square metres.

Brookfield Properties’ retailer grants can be used towards the cost of setting up a new business or retail space, including for fit-out, design and marketing support. Retailers are invited to lodge an expression of interest before 19 April at https://www.inportsidewharf.com.au/