New Zealand men’s fashion brand Rodd & Gunn has launched its global flagship store, Rodd & Gunn x The Lodge Bar & Dining, on James Street in Brisbane – its first in Australia to feature a restaurant.

Located in a heritage-listed building, the shop features 749sqm and will showcase Rodd & Gunn’s seasonal fashion collection as well as offer a dining experience.

“James St is the lifestyle hub of Brisbane and a major drawcard for local, interstate and international tourism,” said Josh Beagley, executive GM of hospitality.

“Given the strength of the local area, it provides the best platform for us to showcase our concept and we have been lucky enough to secure one of the preeminent sites on the street. Our dedication and commitment to excellence, putting our guests first and aiming to exceed their expectations is at the forefront of what we do.”

The flagship store features a downstairs corner bar with banquette seating, and a dining room leading into the retail space. A balcony with the capacity to seat 150+ guests affords panoramic views of the James Street strip.

The interior design features American oak wood flooring, wool rugs, tan leather, and brass accents throughout.

In addition, the Lodge Bar & Dining, James St will follow the same ethos as its New Zealand restaurants. The menu of the bar has been updated by The Lodge Bar Group’s globally renowned chef Matt Lambert and will be prepared to use by head chef, James Evangelinos.

The Brisbane store is the fourth venue of the Lodge Bar Group, following Queenstown, Auckland and Melbourne.

“We have moved away from opening a ton of stores and to focusing on a less-is-more approach,” said CEO Mike Beagley.

“Bigger…. bolder… multi-faceted footprints that are focused on building unique brand experiences that deliver an immersive way of engaging with our brand.”