The Collaroy Hotel - Opening Launch

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Posted 2014-12-16 by Seafarrwide ⇒ follow

The Collaroy Hotel opened late October but has waited until now to officially launch. What is usually a quiet Monday night at home for most became a fabulous party night enjoyed by the local residents, business owners and local sporting community members.

The Collaroy formerly Surf Rock Hotel was taken over by the Waugh Hotel Group around 3 years ago and with General Manager Alistair Flower at the helm it has now been totally revamped and re-branded. Situated on Collaroy Beach with commanding views of the Beach stretching all the way to Narrabeen; this venue is just what the local community has been waiting for.

The Collaroy name comes from a Steamship that ran aground outside the Hotel back in 1881. Some aspects of the design are taken from this theme. The fit out has a contemporary nautical influence with shades of Hampton greens and blues. Casual and airy with large open windows and lazy raffia fans twirling the saltry summer breeze throughout. Several glass panes also decorate the ceilings and some roofing areas slide back exposing the endless blue sky and fresh sea air.

Thick Seafarer ropes and exposed Edison bulbs dangle adding to the nautical theme.

The different spaces effortlessly glide together in this two level venue with the more traditional style pub on the ground floor where you can feel right at home straight off the beach. A sprinkle of sand is welcome in this beach side local where you can feel relaxed even in just a bikini and boardshorts.

Or if you want to glam up then pop some sass on and go to the upper level for a more refined experience. You can sit in several areas outside or in.

Head Chef Head Chef Ben Varela has created a tantalising dining menu . A tempting array of seafood inspired by flavour and simplicity of fresh ingredients. From tempters like Coffin Bay oysters, share plates of seared scallops, fish tacos and salt and pepper squid, a variety of salads for the lighter eaters to more sizeable dishes like baked barramundi and eye fillet for robust eaters and don't forget desserts of sundaes and Belgian waffles.

Families with kids are also very welcome at The Collaroy. A menu of Myall Springs organic GF sausages, grilled chicken or battered fish and chips will surely tempt the tiny taste buds.
Keep in mind that if you wish to sit in The Collaroy Dining Room, it is a good idea to book prior as it has become quite popular since the soft opening of the Hotel in late October. Failing that, you can go on a waiting list or you can opt to eat the same menu in any of the other spaces offered throughout the hotel.

Tonight's opening launch had Chefs working meticulously to prepare a delicious array of canapes for the guests.

My mouth was watering while taking the photos and I couldn't wait to start tasting all the treats they were creating.

It didn't take long before the opening launch was in full swing. Guests filled the upper level enjoying some refreshments. Wine from Morgan Bay and Schooners from Carlton and United were on offer.

The Guest of honour Michael Regan, Mayor of Warringah, was also there to celebrate. A great advocate of local businesses having also once worked in the private sector and fully supporting this wonderful iconic Hotel.

Music was playing and the hips were swaying. All were loving the sea breeze, drinks and delicious canapes.

Trays of Canapes darted around the guests. My favourite was the Seared Sesame Tuna. Seared to perfection enhancing the sesame flavour with an almost beef like taste but melting in your mouth with a burst of wasabi.

Another crowd pleaser were the Leg Ham and Gruyere Croquettes. Absolutely delicious.

Most of the canapes going around you could order off the menu which was ideal so I knew what I to order on my next visit. A firm favourite is always a good party pie!

Their was a buzzing vibe of appreciative guests and I could hear much positive feedback on how impressed they were with the new Hotel. The common vein was how stunning the new design was, spectacular views, delicious food and drinks. I think all were feeling lucky to have such a wonderful hotel in their community to call their local. This evening was also proof of what a great venue it would be for your own private function or small party. You can book a section of the Hotel or have the whole outside Pelican Pavilion which is situated right on the beach. A location that will make you the envy of all your guests.

The launch was a great success and I personally enjoyed it immensely. I'm excited as I happen to live 10 minutes away and will definitely be calling it my new local!