James St Journal August
Journal
August 17, 2025
A Time to Say Hi
August isn’t traditionally associated with new beginnings, but we don’t exactly do things by the book around here which is why we’re kicking tradition to the curb. For this month’s James St Journal, it is this new something that we’re homing in on. New openings, new fit outs and new extensions – read on to discover those that are here now and those that are coming soon.
Say hi now
For a month not normally associated with new beginnings, August is chock full of them. Coincidentally these new beginnings also fall into two categories: food and fashion. Holding it down in the food corner is Sushi Room with its alfresco bar extension that offers patrons the chance to experience its culinary craft in a more casual atmosphere and the newest epicurean eatery of them all Hideki Izakaya who are serving up Japanese-inspired staples for breezy lunches and quick dinners.
For fashion, we’re turning our eyes (pun fully intended) to Bailey Nelson who are back to business after getting a highly receiving a round of highly anticipated and in their words, much needed, renovations. Plus, there’s a not so new, new face on the block as well-respected optometrist Mike Makras returns to James St with his newest venture Makras Optical. With a curated range of artisan eyewear plus clinical expertise and advanced diagnostic services, you can rest easy knowing that your eyewear will be both beautiful and scientifically suited to you.
Say hi soon
You’ll have to be patient, but for design and detail lovers, this one’s worth paying attention to. No longer confined to the pop-up, Heidi Middleton’s ARTCLUB is taking pride of place on James St – permanently! While its final form is yet to be fully realised, you can be sure to expect Heidi’s signature range of carefully crafted garments, intricate artworks and perhaps an element of the atelier if you’re lucky.
Joining, or should we say expanding their role in, the quiet revolution towards a sustainable and ethical fashion industry is P. Johnson; this time with a new space dedicated entirely to the brand’s refined and understated womenswear. Think expertly tailored silhouettes, fabrics rich in both texture and quality, and an interior that’ll give you design envy for life courtesy of talented interior designer and stylist Tamsin Johnson. The exact opening date is still to be finalized but don’t worry, it’ll be here before you know it.
