The Sunshine Coast’s newest restaurant and bar is now officially open, just in time for festive celebrations.
The Dock Mooloolaba is the latest restaurant to open as part of The Wharf Mooloolaba’s revitalisation.
The Dock Mooloolaba specialises in smoked meat, char-grill and has 52 beer taps across three different bars, the most on the Sunshine Coast. The offering includes 16 different varieties on tap, with a further 20 available on cans as well as a quality selection of wine.
The Wharf co-owner Dirk Long from Evans Long said it was exciting to see the difference in the precinct over the last few weeks.
“Just in the last two weeks we have seen the opening of Saltwater Fish and Chippery, Rice Boi and now The Dock Mooloolaba and it is really exciting to see the transformation of the precinct,” Mr Long said.
“The Wharf is bustling with people again – which is exactly what we wanted to achieve when we purchased the property in April 2016,” Mr Long said.
Restaurateur, Jared Hart, who also owns Melbourne’s oldest pub, Captain Melville and Loch n Key Bar, said they opened the restaurant quietly for the weekend ahead of the official opening today.
“This project has been more than a year in the making for us and it has been amazing to see the way the Coast community has embraced us already.
“We wanted to create a restaurant and bar with a casual environment where people could relax with a drink and a snack or enjoy a meal and the feedback so far has been incredible.”
“We are focused on delivering great food as well as a top-quality selection of beer and wine – showcasing the best the region has on offer as well as bringing in some of Australia’s best selections.
“We will change both the food and drinks menus seasonally and are open 7 days a week from 11am til late so we hope people will come and check out the venue, and keep coming back.”
Mr Long said The Dock Mooloolaba is the largest of the new restaurants at 500m2, catering for over 300 people so it is also offers a much-needed offering for functions.
“It really is a great venue and complements the other restaurants at The Wharf including See Restaurant, Chances, Hogs Breath Café, The Wharf Tavern and Tony Kelly’s Saltwater and Rice Boi,” Mr Long said.
“Mooloolaba used to have The Wharf as one of the great pinnacles and now we are getting back to that,” Mr Long said.
“Where else can you choose from such a great variety of dining options all with stunning river-front or harbour views.”
Mr Long said work on the 10-million revitalisation of The Wharf would now pause over Christmas when there would be some great family activities available including arcade games from air hockey through to adrenaline fueled car and superbike racing, giant Jenga and Connect Four in the courtyard with giant bean bags to form a chill out zone.
“On weekends, we will also have live music as well as a petting zoo,” he said.
“2018 will see a continuation of works with the remainder of the site right up to The Wharf Tavern enjoying a facelift in the first half of next year. Opportunities exist to lease space with a mix of boutiques, casual dining and services such as barbers and other offerings being sought.”
For more information and the Summer activities program visit www.wharfmooloolaba.com.au.
Mr Hart said he would now split his time between the Sunshine Coast and Melbourne.
“I have family on the Sunshine Coast and I see huge potential here, particular for a venue like ours that can cater for large numbers in a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere, while showcasing the best quality food and beverages,” Jared said.
Jared said about 60 consultants, traddies and construction crew worked to make the restaurant a reality, with about 40 new full-time, part-time and casuals now employed at the restaurant. For details when they become available follow The Dock Mooloolaba on social media.
To find out more about The Dock Mooloolaba follow them on Facebook and Instagram @thedockmooloolaba and visit www.thedockmooloolaba.com where you can also book online.
