Chefs serving up seasonal feeds for new SW dining experience
🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
Busselton’s New Supper Club Brings After‑Dark Dining to the South West
A fresh dining concept has taken root in the South West, turning a historic venue in Busselton into a buzzing after‑dark hub. The newly opened “Supper Club” invites locals and visitors alike to experience a multi‑sensory menu that marries contemporary Australian cuisine with the region’s celebrated produce, all wrapped in an intimate, club‑style atmosphere. Below is a detailed look at what makes this venture stand out.
A Legacy Building Gets a Modern Twist
The Supper Club occupies the former Busselton Masonic Hall, a heritage‑listed structure that has long served as a community gathering place. The building’s high vaulted ceilings, exposed brickwork and original timber beams provide a striking backdrop for the club’s sophisticated décor. In a recent interview with the owner, Jane Thompson, the transformation was described as “honouring the past while creating something truly new for the present.” The interior has been redesigned with a low‑light ambience, plush seating, and an open kitchen that lets guests watch their meals being prepared.
Thompson noted that the choice of venue was driven by the space’s capacity to accommodate an intimate group of 50 patrons, a perfect size for the club’s “cork‑and‑spoon” dining philosophy. The layout encourages conversation and connection, echoing the social ethos of traditional supper clubs.
A Menu That Celebrates Local Flavour
The Supper Club’s menu is curated around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. It offers a four‑course tasting experience for AUD 68 per person, with a prix‑fixe wine pairing available for an additional AUD 20. Each course is crafted to highlight Busselton’s rich culinary landscape, from freshly caught fish to heritage lamb and bush tomatoes.
Starter: “Kangaroo & Blue Cheese Carpaccio” – thinly sliced, house‑marinated kangaroo served with a drizzle of local blue cheese and a sprinkle of citrus zest.
Soup: “Sea‑food Bisque” – a creamy bisque made from the region’s mussels, scallops, and a splash of cognac.
Main: “Heritage Lamb Chops” – grilled to perfection, accompanied by a sweet potato mash, caramelised onions, and a rosemary‑infused jus.
Dessert: “Bush Tomato Tart” – a bright, tangy tart topped with whipped cream and a sprinkling of micro‑greens.
The menu is designed to showcase the diversity of Western Australia’s produce while offering a balanced tasting experience. “We’re not just feeding people, we’re telling a story with every bite,” Thompson says.
Live Music and an Atmosphere of Relaxation
One of the Supper Club’s standout features is its live music programming. Every Friday and Saturday night, a rotating roster of local musicians performs acoustic sets, ranging from jazz to folk. The club’s sound system is calibrated to complement, not overpower, the dining experience. Many patrons describe the setting as “warm and inviting,” with a hint of exclusivity that encourages guests to linger well past the final course.
The club’s staff are known for their polished yet approachable service. Each table is guided by a dedicated server who explains the menu, wine pairings, and the inspiration behind each dish. This level of personal touch is reminiscent of the traditional supper club model, where the focus is on creating a memorable evening rather than a rushed meal.
Community Engagement and Future Plans
Beyond its culinary offerings, the Supper Club has pledged to play an active role in Busselton’s cultural scene. The venue will host quarterly “Chef’s Table” events, where guests can mingle with the chef and learn about sourcing and cooking techniques. In addition, the club will partner with the Busselton Arts Centre for monthly art exhibitions that display local artists’ works, further cementing its place as a cultural hub.
Thompson also hinted at potential expansion: “We are exploring the idea of opening a pop‑up kitchen in the surrounding vineyards next year, to blend wine and food even more intimately.” This plan would allow the club to expand its offerings and attract a broader demographic, including wine‑enthusiasts and food lovers.
Pricing, Reservations, and Accessibility
The Supper Club operates on a reservation‑only basis. Tables are booked through the venue’s website or via telephone. The club’s price point, set at AUD 68 for the tasting menu, positions it as a premium yet accessible option for locals who want an upscale dining experience without the luxury‑price tag. The optional wine pairing offers added value for guests who wish to elevate their meal.
Accessibility is a key concern for the club. The venue provides wheelchair access to all areas, and the staff are trained to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten‑free alternatives upon request.
A Fresh Chapter for Busselton’s Nightlife
The opening of the Supper Club marks a significant addition to Busselton’s culinary landscape. By blending a historic venue with contemporary cuisine and an intimate atmosphere, the club redefines after‑dark dining in the South West. Its focus on local ingredients, live music, and community engagement positions it as a destination that goes beyond food to create an immersive cultural experience.
Whether you’re a long‑time resident or a tourist looking to explore Busselton’s night scene, the Supper Club offers a unique opportunity to indulge in thoughtfully crafted dishes while enjoying the company of fellow food lovers. For those seeking a memorable evening that celebrates both the region’s culinary heritage and its vibrant arts scene, a reservation at the Supper Club is well worth the effort.
Read the Full Perth Now Article at:
[ https://www.perthnow.com.au/food/supper-club-new-after-dark-dining-experience-opens-in-busselton-c-20484803 ]