Roadside food vendors always represent a calculated gamble. The outcome might be a tasty and satisfying bargain or it could be a salmonella-laced, gastro-inducing disaster. I recently took the punt on Gisler's Roadside Pie Cafe - a roadside vendor with a strong pedigree and minimal risk.
LocationIt's a near certainty that you've driven past Gisler's on a journey across the imaginary line that separates the Redlands and Brisbane council areas. Officially, its 1470 Mt-Gravatt-Capalaba Rd locale is in the semi-rural suburb of Burbank making it within the bounds of Brisbane.
The Gisler's setup has long called this patch home and no wonder given the lack of competition in the area. It's proper koala bushland territory with Capalaba or Wishart providing the nearest other food options.
It's best approached from the west (Mt Gravatt side on Mt-Cap Rd) and actually has a dedicated lane on the left to turn into and ample parking. Approach from the east, and you can comfortably park across the road but may well have to battle traffic to reach Gisler's.
Seating and rudimentary bathroom facilities are provided but, given the busy/ noisy road, takeaway is probably the best option.
Background
Operating since 1976, Gisler's is a proud family-owned and operated business and Redlands success story. While the Burbank roadside cafe is the one you're probably familiar with, Gisler's has two other successful outlets in Cleveland and Thornlands respectively.
Gisler's catch cry - '
if you see a Gisler's sign, you know it means quality' - reflects their commitment to high standards. And any small business that has survived nearly 50 years must be doing something right.
Offerings
Sandwiches, crisps and other snack options are on offer but I'm not sure why you'd stop here and not order a pie. After much deliberation, I go with the chunky steak with potato and gravy (could have got peas too) and I'm not disappointed.
It's tasty and warm and filling - a proper lunch fill-up. The gravy is especially good but the tender chunks are at a premium. A few more would push the pie closer to greatness.
Paired with a Coke, Gisler's could be my new hangover cure. An early coffee looks like a bargain too if you happen to find yourself in the area at the right time.
Verdict
The service here can't be faulted - friendly, efficient and accompanied by a genuine smile. The chunky steak pie is very good and reasonably priced but a bit light on the chunk.
Would I get another Gisler's pie if in the area? Definitely. Would I drive out of my way to grab a pie here as I would for a Yatala pie? Probably not, but if you're cruising between Mount Gravatt and Capalaba on a coolish day, a Gisler's pie is a winning winter warmer.
