Café Mimosa, Maryborough

The Andronicus Bros, Jim and George, formerly from the Greek island of Kythera, advertised their Café Mimosa in Kent Street, Maryborough in the local newspaper proudly promoting, "We serve the Best brands of tea – Pure Coffee on Milk – Best Quality Cocoa."

Brothers Jim (Dimitris Anargeros) and George Andronicus and their families built their position in the township based on the tradition that people "go where they get quality, lowest prices, prompt attention, civility and cleanliness".

Café Mimosa had a reception lounge above the café which was large enough to host sporting teams, wedding receptions, musical events and the Philharmonic choir during its practice sessions.

In the early 1920’s the café advertised - “Our pies with Greek peas and mashed potatoes and special gravy are the talk of the town. Our sandwiches cut fresh for every customer. Hot toast and butter always ready”.

An article published in the Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser in 1936 stated, "the management of the Café Mimosa, which is recognised as one of Maryborough’s leading cafes, has with commendable enterprise, made a very substantial improvement to the café."

The article went on to describe "The Mimosa Café was noted for its splendid assortment of fine quality fruits, choice confectionery, luncheons, morning and afternoon teas."

George and Jim Andronicus also owned the Golden Gate Café in Winton.

Sources:

• Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser (Qld.: 1860 – 1947) March, 1936 Pg 10
• The Greeks in Queensland: a history from 1859-1945 by Denis A. Conomos.
• Andronicus Family Photographs

Exhibition – Meet me at the Paragon

State Library’s latest exhibition, Meet me at the Paragon explores how the creation of American-style cafes enabled Greek migrants of the early to mid-1900s to carve out a new life in a foreign land. The exhibition runs from 27 September 2019 until 15 March 2020.

Anne Scheu – Engagement Officer, State Library of Queensland