Mouth watering flavours of Carl’s Jr hamburgers, thickshakes and chicken tenders enjoyed by millions across the globe are now available here in Ipswich.
Operated by the Bansal Group, the restaurant is the first freestanding drive-thru restaurant in Queensland.
Bansal Group’s General Manager Shawn Kerr said the family-owned retailer were familiar with the Ipswich area as they’re “almost local”.
“The Bansal Group own a considerable amount of IGAs throughout this region,” Mr Kerr said.
“Considering we had our first 50 customers before 7:30pm the night before opening, I think Carl’s Jr at Redbank Plains is going to be a pretty special place.”
In a display of their community centric ethos, the restaurant served Defence Force personnel for free as part of a trial run before the official opening.
The group, who have previously supported veterans’ group Wandering Warriors through their IGA stores will continue to do so through Carl’s Jr, putting forward a cash donation of $10,000 to their upcoming Tribute Marathon stretcher challenge.
Mayor Andrew Antoniolli said the influx of recent fast food chains had attracted criticism in the community, but he urged residents to consider the economical benefits the restaurant would provide to the city.
“One of the things people need to recognise is: where do the youth get work?”, Cr Antoniolli said.
“Fast food is a starting point for many people in the workforce, and this is another 60 jobs for the city.
“Make no mistake, the reason Carl’s Jnr. come here is because of our growth. It’s exciting to know that such an international brand has chosen Ipswich as its starting location in Queensland.”
Also resident at the Redbank Plains Centre is Krispy Kreme Donuts who offer the ultimate lazy treat, with a drive-thru to satisfy those Original Glazed Krispy Kreme cravings!
Other new foodie outlets include Ungermann Brothers in the Ipswich CBD, for ice cream flavours that defy sweets logic. When you hear of flavour pairings like strawberry and balsamic, liquorice and fennel or simply roasted garlic, you’re probably not thinking of ice cream – but they’re just some of the bold flavours being served up at Ungermann Brothers.
Owned by 2017 Masterchef Australia runner up Ben Ungermann and his brother Danny, the duo have set up shop at 88 Limestone Street – just in time for you to get your ice cream fix before the end of summer.
Foodies have the opportunity to try fifteen unusual flavours in a cone, cup or for something a little extra, a tasting board of three flavours.
There’s even a menu of ‘adult’ style milkshakes to satisfy the biggest of sweet tooths.
Fitted out with retro décor, the inside of the Ungermann Brothers boasts a chequered floor, blue booths, a neon sign and even a projector for you to listen to electro swing hits.
There’s also an open kitchen where you can feast your eyes on the Ungermann brothers whipping up their creations.
The shop even has the approval of Mayoress Karina Antoniolli, who took to social media with a five star review.
“Amazing” Ms Antoniolli said. “Beautiful shop, lovely staff, delicious ice cream.”
Nestled amongst Dovetails Restaurant and Pumpyard Brewery with opening hours from 11am until late daily, it looks like next weekend’s dinner, drinks and dessert menu is sorted.
Other new spots in Ipswich to try:
Crispy Puff Donuts: Created by Arcadia owner Matt Tsalikis, these tasty treats are out of this world – and based upon the Greek dessert loukoumades, so you know they’re going to be good!
The Yard on Glebe (Glebe Road Ipswich): Their Sydney roasted Single O coffee will have you addicted, but be sure to sit down and enjoy a treat amongst their minimalistic and très cute décor.
