Established since 2004 by owner Vivian Ting, Yi on Edward (previously Ann Garms Gifts) has become a much loved cafe restaurant by both locals, interstate and international visitors over the years. Located near the Botanical Garden precinct, next to our Brisbane landmark Port Office Hotel and Stamford Plaza hotel.
Owner Vivian Ting was born in Hong Kong and migrated to Brisbane with her family in the 1980s. After a decade of working as a qualified accountant, Vivian left her profession and joined the cafe restaurant scene in 2004.
A common question over the years is “Why the sea change?” and her answer is “Love at the first sight. I love the shop the minute i set foot in it, even though i know nothing about hospitality back then. Even until now, after seven years, it still melts my heart”
How does an accountant with no hospitality knowledge and experience survive the business? And what is more, she doesn’t drink coffee, or wine, or eat Western food? “ I got my basic cooking skills from my high school in Hong Kong. I need to thank my parents. They sent me to a prestigious school which has a very intense curriculum. At 15, we were proficiently creating delicate dumplings and dim sims from scratch. Upon purchasing the shop, the learning continued from my staff and chef, and most important of all, I listen to my customers. That’s how I learn and improve ourselves continuously.”
The Yi Team
Differentiating from the traditional restaurant business model, where staff have segregation of duties, our team at Yi is and highly multi-tasked. The aim is to promote higher efficiency, better services, low costs and therefore low price for customers. This business model proved to be successful over the years and survived the high tides and low tides of the restaurant seasons. So, don’t be surprised if you see our chef making coffee at the coffee machine!!
Our latest review in Must Do Brisbane.
“Such a gorgeous city nook! The restaurant decor reminds me a little of an old-fashioned tea-shop… there are also dainty sweets and tarts in the front cabinent, though fortunately the meals are generously sized. Service was attentive and caring; our salads and vegetable stacks were HUGE, well-priced and delicious. Extras such as smoked salmon and salt and pepper calamari were inexpensive, and, once again, generously served. At the end of our meals, the waitress brought some little homemade passionfruit tartlets to our table — such a treat. Yi really makes you welcome. I can’t wait to go back.” SMackay