The Punt House features stunning outdoor dining. Photo: Jonah Pearson.
When the new bridge construction started at Batemans Bay, it spelled the end of an institution. On The Pier restaurant – in the shadow of the bridge – was closed for the duration of the construction. But now the space is reopening with a fresh creative direction and a name that pays homage to the building’s origins: The Punt House.
The previous restaurant On The Pier was partly owned by Alan Imrie, who is leading the new venture with wife Alison Miers. The pair have spent the past couple of years renovating the old building.
“It was the original building that sold tickets for the punt which crossed the river,” Alison Miers told Region.
“It needed re-piering, rewiring and major construction so it’s taken us some time.”
The idyllic position of the new and improved Punt House. Photo: Jonah Pearson.
The Punt House will be a mediterranean-inspired restaurant focussing on fresh seafood, local produce and an elevated sharing menu. Peter Jones-Best has come down from the Sydney hospitality scene with chef Todd Milne to run the venue.
“I grew up down here so it’s been interesting coming back to where I grew up and returning to this site where I’ve had many special occasion meals,” he told Region.
“Todd was looking for a bit of a sea change and I just told him it’s a really great opportunity for a better quality of life down here and the chance to take on a really interesting creative project.”
Throw some shrimp on the barbie, or perhaps indulge in some octopus. Photo: Jonah Pearson.
The menu will feature a range of small and large sharing plates focussing on mediterranean flavours. The dishes are yet to be finalised, but customers can expect spiced octopus served with green romesco, Padron peppers and sauce vierge. Kingfish crudo with pomegranate, orange, pickled fennel and pistachio provides a cooler option. Narooma Seafood will be providing fresh fish, and oysters will come from just up river.
“We’re partnering with Oyster Life, whose leases you can actually see out the window of the dining room! They’re just going to drop them off in their tinny, and we’ll shuck them in the restaurant: it’s as fresh as possible,” Peter said.
The Punt House. Photo: Jonah Pearson.
The drinks menu will lean heavily towards local wines like Cupitt’s Estate and Murrumbateman wineries, with a few French and Italian bottles to supplement the list. Light spirits, amari and sparkling whites will further enhance the Mediterranean experience.
“We want the wines to be a complement to the meal, similar to how people drink in Europe. All the whites, roses and reds will pair really beautifully with the fresh seafood. We want that marriage of food and wine.”
The prospective opening date is Thursday 22 August. The Punt House will be open for lunch and dinner Thursday to Sunday, with extended opening hours during the summer holidays. Follow The Punt House on Instagram or visit its website.
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