The creators of popular Brisbane eatery Billykart, Ben O’Donoghue and Ben Roberts, have recently opened their new venture, Bender’s Bar, right across the road in West End.

Bender is apparently Ben O’Donoghue’s longstanding nickname, so the name seems a good fit. The venue is also located on a bend/corner so it is geographically appropriate as well. The Bens describe Bender’s Bar as a “local love story, a place for the people” delivering “no gimmicks, just delicious burgers and good booze”. Bender’s promises to deliver “burgers that are simple but so tasty, great relaxed service and a simple, broad drink selection. Everything you want in your little local down the street”. Billykart had already made quite a name for its burgers, so now the duo has taken the formula across the street to their new place.

Switching on the grills in the space formerly occupied by Copperface Jacks and Da Burger, Bender’s Bar offers a more casual space. Ben Roberts explains: “While it has all the Billykart hallmarks they are quite different offerings, with Bender’s taking the burger, beer and drinking route, while Billykart returns to its ethos of simple, fresh produce delivering great flavours in its relaxed setting.” Menu highlights at Bender’s include old faithful the Billykart Burger, a fish burger with ranch dressing, avo and lettuce and beer battered pickles and jalapeño poppers.

In keeping with the venue’s more relaxed structure, the team is committed to establishing the price point at Bender’s Bar as wallet friendly. Ben states, “Benders also allows us to be a bit more aggressive in the market, offering some great food and drink deals like Wednesday’s $10 burger nights.” These weekly specials and competitive prices are a move that’s quickly establishing Bender’s as a regular watering hole for locals and those on the pilgrimage for the perfect patty. In addition, as any good pub should, Bender’s plays host to various regular events including trivia nights, live music and DJs, plus live sports broadcasting. For the new year, upcoming events include a weekly trivia night, Friday afternoon knock off drinks, food specials and meat tray raffles. The two Bens are also planning something special for Sunday afternoons, so be sure to keep an eye out.

Now obviously as exciting as all of the deals and events are, the real hero at Bender’s is the menu. The menu currently consists of five humble yet mighty burgers: the classic cheeseburger, Aussie Aussie Aussie, Chicken Sando, the Fish Burger and Vegan Sando, catering to a cross-section of tastes. There is also a short offering of sides, such as beer battered onion rings and parmesan and truffle fries. Ben Roberts says his favourite picks include the classic cheeseburger, vegan burger, Bender fries and hot wings. To enjoy alongside the food, Bender’s boasts a drinks menu including 10 tap beers and ciders, wine and a handful of spirits. Bender’s is open Wednesday to Sunday, noon til late, at 56 Boundary Street, South Brisbane.

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