A piece of Western Australia's business history, where hundreds of deals were done during the 1980s, has been re-invented, with the reopening of Mosmons- formerly known as Meads.
Still located right on the water at Mosman Bay, the now refurbished former Meads flagship restaurant has been reopened- not only as a place for corporate high fliers, but for everyone.
Mosmans' Manager Jacie Cowling says the look of the restaurant is now quite different.
"Gone are the glitzy mirrors, dark walls and grand piano and a fresh natural wood feel pervades with a neutral colour palette and a stunning collection of art," she said.
The pieces reflect the natural beauty of Mosmans' surroundings, including some especially commissioned for the restaurant, and highlighting its location as the best spot on the Swan River.
The restaurant has always had a colourful place in the history of Western Australia, with its heyday in the 80s when it was the place to be seen for many of the original 'WA Inc Group'.
The history goes right back to 1904 when permission was granted by the Buckland Hill Road Board to build a jetty and boat house on the understanding the public were allowed to walk the jetty 24 hours a day. As Mosman Bay grew in popularity, the buildings were expanded and the site passed through a succession of owners before it became 'Smith's Boatshed' until the 1970's.
The site fell into disrepair and was acquited by businessman Dallas Dempster, who was around during the 'WA Inc' era and famous for many developments including the Burswood Casino. He embarked on various developmeny proposals for Mosman Bay, most of which were not welcomed by local residents, who feared an overbearing commercial use of the site.
The original buildings burned down in March 1986. The WA authorities the granted permission to build the current structure.
The local Council and residents were dismayed this decision had been made without their involvement and with a 2,000 signature petition, they sought legal counsel and in 1986 passed a motion to deny land access to the site.
Dallas was not one to give up easily and he engaged the services of Multiplex founder John Roberts. Using an upturned swimming pool as a barge they brought all the building materials down the Swan River from the Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club and constructed the building backwards from the shore.
The aptly named Mosman Bay Tearooms opened for business in September 1987 and a year later the business was operating with virtually no opposition from residents. With many of the 'WA Inc' characters including Alan Bond and Laurie Connell as customers and plenty of boats moored on the jetty, the place grew in popularity.
When this rapid era of expansion grew to a close and the fortunes of the key characters went into reverse, Warren Mead was brought in by Dallas Dempster to bring a more commercial angle to the restaurant site. The site became known as 'Meads' and was considered ahead of its time in bringing fine dining to Perth.
The restaurant went through a golden period and became renowned for fresh fish and oysters as a fantastic compliment to the outstanding river location and stunning views.
Today Mosmans continues to be a special place for many Perth people and there is a fresh new menu and look that will put the restaurant back into the hearts of all Western Australians.
The menu offers classic fresh seafood simply prepared in house and sourced from the best local suppliers. Head Chef Brett Benjamin and his team are committed to sourcing local in-season produce and a relaxed contemporary dining experience.
The wine list retains this local feel with a selection of Margaret River and Australian vineyards ranging from the every day to wines for special occasions.
With main courses ranging from $27 - $38 and house wine starting at $30 per bottle, coupled with beautiful surroundings, a visit to Mosmans is a must.
Mosmans is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday to Saturday, lunch on Sunday and for breakfast on weekends and public holidays. Advance bookings are recommended on 9383 3388.
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