Under The Clock

Under the Clock is a secret café steeped in historic charm, found hidden away underneath the landmark heritage-listed South Brisbane Town Hall that is now part of Somerville House.

Look for the entrance at the base of the old Town Hall, adjacent to Somerville House’s gates and a step through reveals a clear-roofed terrace that resembles a Victorian era railway platform, scattered with tables and chairs.

The café, which is owned by Somerville House, occupies the basement of the grand old building, with original brick walls, archways and alcoves preserved. Along one wall are a line-up of black and white pictures depicting the colourful history of the building, which started life as the South Brisbane Town Hall in 1892 and throughout the ensuing years has been a HQ for the US Armed Forces during World War II, residential flats for British engineers and their families post-war, the Conservatorium of Music from 1957-79 and in 1999 it was purchased by Somerville House.

Seating is either inside the ambient interior or on the terrace, where there’s a wooden bar with stools and café tables in signature Somerville green.

On the menu are a range of snacks and light meals available all day, such as avo on toast, buttery fruit toast, bacon and egg focaccia or Pancake Stack with maple syrup, ice-cream and mixed berries.

Lunch options include Pulled Pork Brioche with house cut slaw and onion jam, Chef’s Salad or Ploughman’s Board with toasted bread, dips and deli items. Otherwise from behind the counter are heat-ups like sausage rolls, filo pastries and quiches or gourmet filled rolls, along with sweet treats like scones, jam and cream or Strawberry Swirl cheesecake.

Coffee served at Under the Clock is Bear Bones, while other hot drinks include a slection of teas, peppermint hot chocolate, chai latte and matcha (or matcha mug). Cold drinks include iced coffee, mocha or latte; frappes (chocolate hazelnut or cookies & cream) smoothies; or milkshakes.

The menu may have changed since our visit.