The Bowling Club, in Caversham, began as a food truck in June 2002, and opened at its premises in February 2023, and owners Liam Arthur and Jackie Bannon could not be more delighted with the outcome, with its lease renewed for 10 years.
"When we heard that the place was going to be bowled over, we approached the landlord with an offer of 10 years, and he was willing to take us on," Ms Bannon said.
"It’s quite a big relief and it means the concept of what we do is here to stay."
The restaurant has developed a following due to its low prices — people can pay as little as $4 for a meal and bring their own bowls — and its community-focused approach.
"When we first started in the Caversham building, we saw the kitchen had capacity for up to 600 meals," Ms Bannon said.
"On some days, we get about 1000 people coming through the doors. It’s been incredible."
Mr Arthur said it wanted to "keep adapting" to new ideas and demands.
"We want to develop a real sense of belonging.
"Anyone can come here and afford to have a meal and a chat.
"A lot of people have been talking about it."
Ms Bannon said the place had become particularly important as people became increasingly socially isolated.
"It’s not just about the food; it just doesn’t ask too much of people."
Mr Arthur said they served a range of meals, including vegan and gluten-free options, and the process always surprised him.
"Every day it’s different. Sometimes you can get real pleasure out of cooking a good pad Thai or something, but it’s also about people’s interaction with food."
"It was such a nice thing, the development of relationships is exactly what our business is about," Mr Arthur said.
The restaurant reopens on January 16, and will be open three days a week until April, where there are plans to open four days a week.
Ms Bannon said it employed 14 people.
"Everyone invests in each other. We all are working towards a common goal."
There were "all sorts of ideas" for using the space and opening it up for the community, but these would be worked out in time, she said.
"And 10 years is a lot of time. It’s exciting."
