A much-anticipated new waterfront eatery has opened, as development of the surrounding masterplanned community continues.
Employing about 20 local staff, the Marina Bar and Bistro at Pelican Waters Marina is operated by Simon Jones, who is known as the man behind That Pizza Guy, with its mobile wood-fired ovens.
The restaurant opening coincides with the launch of neighbouring IGA supermarket W’Gusto, part of the emerging Dockside Village precinct.
Mr Jones said his business was performing beyond expectations in its opening weeks, with the seafood platter, signature scallops and wagyu beef burger firm favourites.
“It’s been quite an adventure to get to this point, a lot of hard work, but it’s been worth it,” he said.
“I’ve always loved the water. What a great place to be. To be able to partner up with the Pelican Waters Marina and draw people the into the new hub with the IGA and other businesses, I believe we have created a great asset for the whole community.
“To be the first restaurant to do it is quite an honour.”
Pelican Waters general manager of development Hamish Pressland said the restaurant opening was a welcome addition for the masterplanned community, which started construction more than 35 years ago.
“Being one of the only waterfront restaurants to open in Pelican Waters and one of the few this end of the Coast is a dream realised, but to have it in our own marina is something extra special and something we have been working towards for many years,” Mr Pressland said.
“The Marina Bar and Bistro is a spectacular addition to the marina offering.
“Our community has been eager to see a quality restaurant open for business in the area and we are delighted to have played our part in delivering the first restaurant for the precinct offering a magic setting for people to enjoy a nice meal, coffee, wine or beer.
“The venue is simply breathtaking for breakfast, lunch or dinner overlooking the marina and I would encourage our community to take full advantage of it.
“It marks a major milestone in the evolution of the Pelican Waters community into a thriving urban environment and lifestyle destination.”
Pelican Waters Marina managing director Les Binkin said he was delighted the IGA and Marina Bar and Bistro had finally come alive.
“All the various parts in the Pelican Waters Marina precinct dovetail together to provide a brand new offering to both the residential and boating communities,’’ he said.
The Marina Bar and Bistro is open from 6.30am Wednesday to Sunday.
Want more free local news? Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, and sign up for our FREE daily news email.