Farewell Flour Factory, hello ARARA! A new South American restaurant is coming to Queen Street

When the sad news came that we’d be farewelling Queen Street gin joint The Flour Factory, we couldn’t help but wonder…

What will happen to that beautiful, heritage-listed space?

We now have our answer, with multi-level venue ARARA set to open next month. Inspired by the vibrant colours, music and flavours of South America, there will be a sprawling collection of spaces to get spicy – whether you’re enjoying the rooftop patio, colourful laneway gardens or hitting up the 60-person restaurant TUPí.

“ARARA is a real escape into the Americas. It’s a rambunctious, boisterous and colourful venue that brings something entirely new to the Perth scene,” said Sneakers & Jeans CEO Andy Freeman.

“This multi-level offering is designed as a venue for everyone, from a midweek dinner to an all-out celebration, all accompanied with a Caipirinha or Pisco Sour, of course.”

The venue will be spearheaded by Brazilian-born Head Chef Diego Machado de Mello, previously at the Brisbane Hotel and Santini.

“The menu showcases a plethora of unique memories and intimate family recipes, such as my take on the Picanha and my grandmother’s beloved Torta de Banana dish. It is good food cooked with real passion,” said Mello.

ARARA’s menu is suitably share-friendly, from classic chicken coxinha, arepas and empanadas, to equally shareable, party-starting punch bowls.

TUPí’s menu takes things up a notch, starting with snacks like prawn-stuffed acarajé and Brazilian crab cakes, to more substantial offerings like short ribs served with cassava and watergrass, pork belly with black beans or beef rump cap with bacon-studded farofa.

“Our menu is designed to share and enjoy with friends. It’s South American conversational dining that’s created to be enjoyed by all – all while being surrounded by the eclectic and energetic ambiance of ARARA.”

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ARARA is scheduled to open in May, with an official public opening party dropping on Friday, May 19 – keep an eye on the ARARA Instagram for updates.