Team behind The Raft eye South Perth foreshore for $2m floating hospitality venue with fish and chips window

A new $2 million floating restaurant and bar could soon anchor off the South Perth foreshore, with Old Salt Perth, the team behind The Raft, lodging a proposal for a new floating venue on the Swan River.

Proposed for the Mends Street and South Perth Esplanade precinct, which is about 1.5-2km from the CBD, the South Perth Wharf aims to create a “contemporary” floating destination with 360-degree river views, public walkways and a new public jetty that integrates with the existing Midneerup location.

The applicant says the jetty upgrades will “enhance” river-based transport, improve recreation and give private boat owners a new stop.

The South Perth Wharf is proposed to have three food and beverage outlets with a a hybrid bar/restaurant venue, a small and modern cafe, and a take-away fish and chips window.

The vessel itself will span 432sqm and be supported by a 224sqm boardwalk, 48sqm service area and a 38sqm gangway connecting to the shore.

The proposal includes seating for 135 guests in the restaurant, a 52-seat alfresco dining area and a takeaway cafe offering seats for 16 people.

The alfresco area is planned to be opened until 9pm, with proposed trading hours for the restaurant being from 7am to 11pm Sunday to Thursday and 7am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

The application states that only background and ambient music will play through internal speakers, and no live music.

The venue will centre on a “seasonal and sustainable”, a la carte menu built around “fresh, local ingredients” from WA suppliers.

Diners can expect sharing plates that are “bursting with flavour” and a beverage menu featuring a “curated” mix of local and international wines, craft beers and premium spirits.

The wine list will offer at least 10 options by the glass and 50 bottles in total, while cocktails will draw inspiration from WA flavours and the riverside setting. Artisanal sodas, mocktails and other non-alcoholic drinks will also be available.

According to the proposal their staff will be the “biggest asset”, with the team “empowered” to anticipate needs, personalise interactions and go the extra mile to create “memorable experiences” for guests.

South Perth locals are the primary audience, aiming to become a regular go-to spot for after-work drinks, weekend celebrations or casual catch-ups with friends.

The venue is also expected to draw visitors from across WA and tourists seeking a riverside experience.

Letters of endorsement have been submitted by former South Perth mayor Greg Milner, former councillor Nic Coveney, Adrian Fini and senior State Government minister Paul Papalia.

The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions is currently assessing the proposal and is calling on the public for feedback.