The Corner Palm Beach, a hatted restaurant situated in a prime beachside location on Sydney's picturesque northern beaches, has announced it will close its doors after just five months of operation. The venue confirmed via social media that its final day of service will be Sunday, March 1, though owners have framed the shutdown as a temporary 'pause' rather than a permanent closure.
A Prestigious Yet Brief Run
In a statement posted on the restaurant's Instagram account, the owners expressed gratitude for their inaugural summer season, highlighting the joy of seeing the hybrid dining room, wine bar, delicatessen, and providore come to life. Notably, the venue earned a prestigious Good Food hat within its first few months, a significant accolade in Australia's culinary scene. 'Bookings are now open for these last few weeks, and we'd love to welcome you in before we turn the next page,' the statement added, while also thanking executive chef Sam Kane for shaping the venue's opening chapter.
Underlying Challenges and Strategic Shift
According to industry reports, The Corner Palm Beach was not originally conceived as a pop-up or summer residency. However, owners changed strategy after bookings proved 'not strong enough to sustain the venue outside of peak summer trade.' This decision reflects broader challenges in the hospitality sector, where seasonal fluctuations can significantly impact viability.
Local Reaction and Community Impact
The closure has left locals and diners devastated, with many expressing disappointment on social media. One patron lamented, 'This elegant space and exceptional produce has been a real pleasure to find - rare at Palmy. Sorry to see the doors close.' Another commented, 'The Corner has been so wonderful - can't believe that it's taking off and now it's closing!' Australian influencer Indy Clinton also weighed in, describing the news as 'so sad.'
Broader Context Within The Boathouse Group
The Corner Palm Beach is part of The Boathouse Group, a prominent Sydney restaurant empire that has faced recent closures. Another venue, The Boathouse at Rose Bay, quietly shut its doors on January 11 after five years, citing the end of its lease agreement. A spokesperson for the group confirmed the closure while championing new projects, including the recent opening of Las Palmas in Manly and a development in Terrey Hills.
Historical Financial Struggles and Ownership Changes
The Boathouse Group's journey has been marked by financial turbulence. In 2019, the hospitality business struggled with mounting debts, unpaid suppliers, and threats of wind-up action. New investors, property developers Ben and Jono Isaac, stepped in to stabilize the group, leading to the exit of the original Goldsmith family owners in 2021. The group is now owned by the Isaac family along with CEO Antony Jones, operating several iconic waterside venues across Sydney and regional New South Wales.
Despite the current closures, The Boathouse Group continues to expand its portfolio, with flagship locations at Shelly Beach, Balmoral, Patonga, and North Wollongong, alongside other venues like Barrenjoey House and Manly Pavilion. The recent shutdowns highlight the precarious nature of the hospitality industry, even for established groups with prestigious accolades.
