From clifftop roadhouse to a boutique destination
Jonah’s in Whale Beach celebrated 97 years on Australia Day with a host of cultural figures attending an intimate invitation-only event. The annual gathering has become a tradition and brings together leaders, creatives, sports stars (including many Olympians), and long-standing friends of the house. Guests this year included singer Marcia Hines, musical theatre’s Ashleigh Rubenach, journalist Mike Munro, jockey Jim Cassidy, 10 Olympians, author Thomas Keneally and former Governor General Peter Cosgrove.
“Reaching 97 years is not simply about longevity,” says Niels Sluiman, Jonah’s general manager. “It’s about remaining relevant, respected and loved across generations. Australia Day gave us the opportunity to celebrate the people – many of them cultural icons – who have helped shape Jonah’s story, just as Jonah’s has been part of Australia’s.”
Constance Vidal initially founded Jonah’s as a clifftop roadhouse in 1929. Following WWII, Jonah’s transformed into a fine dining restaurant. Then in 2001 it was transformed into the boutique retreat that it is today, with the addition of luxurious rooms, private balconies and jacuzzi spa baths.
Niels says the one thing that has never changed is Jonah’s commitment to service. “World-class service has always been at the heart of Jonah’s, the kind you’d expect from any great restaurant anywhere in the world, but delivered in a way that feels warm, personal and genuine,” he says. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see our guests consistently tell us that our service is what truly sets their Jonah’s experience apart.”
Over the years, Jonah’s guest list has included Laurence Olivier, Anthony Hopkins, Joan Collins, and members of the Monaco royal family. Music legends such as Mick Jagger, Bono, Rod Stewart, Queen, One Direction, Justin Bieber and Sam Smith have also visited.
The star-studded guest list may be long, but Jonahs is also proud of its connection with the local community.
“I’m extremely proud of the relationships we’ve built with our regular guests and the local suppliers we partner with,” says Niels.
“Supporting local businesses is woven into every part of what we do, from the ingredients on the plate, to the Brookvale-made chocolate in our minibar, and even the Jonah’s keyrings featuring artwork by local artist Leah Rammage.”
Visit jonahs.com.au
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