Visitors to Rottnest Island this summer can look forward to two fresh additions to the island’s hospitality scene. The Lodge Wadjemup has officially unveiled Pelican, a casual coffee and soft serve kiosk, and Sunsets Bar and Dining, a Mediterranean-inspired dining venue with panoramic views over the island’s iconic salt lake.
Opening ahead of schedule on December 19th, these new venues are set to elevate the island experience for locals and tourists alike. Operated by the acclaimed team at Social Grounds Hospitality — known for celebrated establishments like Jetty Bar and Little Creatures — the venues promise exceptional offerings for all-day dining and leisurely treats.
A nostalgic kiosk and Mediterranean delights

Pelican, the casual coffee and soft serve kiosk — located on Kitson Street facing the main settlement’s communal park — captures the nostalgic essence of Rottnest summers.
“Pelican has a real sense of nostalgia about it, we want it to be a place where families will be ordering soft serves and coffees with sandy feet, big smiles and zinc on their face,” Managing Director of Social Grounds Hospitality, Graeme Dick said.
For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Sunsets Bar and Dining delivers. Led by acclaimed Chef Mat Powell (formerly of Il Lido Cottesloe and George Calombaris Group), the venue offers a produce-driven menu showcasing the finest Australian seafood, handmade pastas, and rotisserie dishes.
Here, the swordfish, scallops, and Powell’s signature gnochetti with Shark Bay tiger prawns all come highly recommended.
“Guests to the island should definitely work up an appetite enjoying the beaches and bays before settling in at Sunsets Bar and Dining which is the only venue that offers epic sunset views over the salt lake.”
“The wine and beverage list is equally impressive as the food offering — given the background of The Lodge Wadjemup owners, much thought and consideration has gone into creating an exciting new beverage menu.”
A local vision realised

The Lodge Wadjemup is owned by a group of WA families, spearheaded by Peter Fogarty and his family, who have been instrumental in bringing the vision to life. The development was undertaken by a team of local Western Australian talent, including world-class architects, development managers, designers, and planners alongside the very best in food and beverage, culture, and brand.