Builder: Archie McDonald of McDonalds Pty Ltd
Architect: HVM Brown
The building showcases the interwar period of building boom in Mackay, as well as the art deco style seen throughout the area.
The Empire Cafe traded on this site for a number of decades, firstly in a small wooden structure until the new shop was completed in 1933.
The original exterior featured “arresting two-tone tiles and chronium stripes”. The interior was described as a thoroughly modern milk bar with feature mirrors and four electric chandeliers.
The Empire Café was run by Mrs A Warhurst and Mrs M Gould, who ran the establishment for approximately five decades.