Merivale has officially opened the doors to The Quarterdeck Narooma. The popular cafe, sitting out over the water at Wagonga Inlet, is a 20-year-old local institution. Recently reincarnated, the building has retained its traditional tiki vibes with a modern twist.
Above: Merivale’s Jenn Black and team are delivering friendly and first-rate service in the much-loved local favourite.
Head chef Tal Buchnik’s menu offers coastal gems in a vibrant and innovative style. Key dishes include Wagonga rock oysters, snapper ceviche, grilled citrus pork belly tacos and a Quarterdeck sundae, served simply, with the local produce as the star.
MEET VICTOR : he is originally from Brazil and studied graphic design. He fell in-love with the hospitality world after moving to Sydney and working casual jobs. Now one of Merivale’s incredible bar managers, Victor has carefully curated the Quarterdeck cocktail menu, and boy has he outdone himself.
Pictured below with his justifiably, much loved, ‘Banana Daiquiri’
Photos: HONEY ATKINSON
The interiors of Quarterdeck have had a light refresh and, much to the delight of Quarterdeck fans, still captures and presents that essence of dining by, and over the water. The venue retains its combination of casual and comfortable furnishings and the magic, heavy sash windows are in place to climate control as they have been for the past two decades.
One of the pleasures of the venue is its curated reggae soundscape that gives the venue a vibrancy and a buzz that brings an added smile. It is an intelligent add to quality food, exceptional professional service, a great choice of beers, wines and cocktails and a stunning view.
Justin Hemmes, CEO of Merivale, says: “Quarterdeck is a slice of unique local culture in one of the most beautiful spots on the south coast. It is somewhere for people to connect, celebrate and dine on the best produce the south coast has to offer, while enjoying an incredible view with a cocktail in hand.”
“Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to many of my happiest memories with my family. It has been an absolute privilege to spend so much time here over the past six years and becoming part of the local business community is enormously exciting.”
Merivale purchased Quarterdeck in March 2021, becoming the group’s first venue outside of Sydney, closely followed by its accession of Narooma’s The Whale Inn, a boutique hotel and restaurant, in June 2021. With the acquisition of these two iconic south coast venues Merivale is proud to have created a diverse range of employment opportunities for locals and is committed to providing professional, top-notch training.
In addition to creating career paths for locals, the opening of Quarterdeck will support complementary businesses within the community and aims to help to boost the local economy through the attraction of year-round tourism and visitation to the NSW south coast.
