The Empire Opens Expressions of Interest for a New Restaurant Operator
Big heritage, big potential and one very exciting hospitality opportunity.
14 Nov 2025
Photography: Morgan Smith
If you’ve ever dreamed of running a restaurant in one of Toowoomba’s most iconic buildings, this might just be the moment the universe taps you on the shoulder.
In a rare opportunity for the precinct, The Empire is inviting Expressions of Interest for a new restaurant operator and catering partner - the first time this role has been opened since 1997.
The Empire remains one of Queensland’s great cultural institutions, welcoming more than 130,000 patrons each year and hosting an extraordinary lineup of performances and events. Now, they’re looking for someone who can help shape the next chapter of dining and hospitality within this iconic space.
The successful operator will take on the on-site restaurant and lead catering across corporate, community and special events — creating a central dining destination that pairs beautifully with the theatre’s heritage charm and vibrant performance schedule.
With historic revenue estimated between $2-$2.5 million per year (operating only four days a week), it’s a significant opportunity for a team ready to bring creativity, local connection and excellence to the table.
Expressions of Interest close 5pm (AEDT) Sunday 30 November 2025, with handover planned from January 2026.
To register interest or find out more, contact Allan Forsdick at If you’ve ever dreamed of running a restaurant in one of Toowoomba’s most iconic buildings, this might just be the moment the universe taps you on the shoulder.
In a rare opportunity for the precinct, The Empire is inviting Expressions of Interest for a new restaurant operator and catering partner - the first time this role has been opened since 1997.
The Empire remains one of Queensland’s great cultural institutions, welcoming more than 130,000 patrons each year and hosting an extraordinary lineup of performances and events. Now, they’re looking for someone who can help shape the next chapter of dining and hospitality within this iconic space.
The successful operator will take on the on-site restaurant and lead catering across corporate, community and special events - creating a central dining destination that pairs beautifully with the theatre’s heritage charm and vibrant performance schedule.
With historic revenue estimated between $2-$2.5 million per year (operating only four days a week), it’s a significant opportunity for a team ready to bring creativity, local connection and excellence to the table.
Expressions of Interest close 5pm (AEDT) Sunday 30 November 2025, with handover planned from January 2026.
To register interest or find out more, contact Allan Forsdick at 0401 557 760 or aforsdick@futurefood.com.au.
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