10 December 2024
The owners of St Leonards seafood restaurant Petermen have announced its closure, citing challenges faced by independent hospitality businesses over the past year. The restaurant, which opened to critical acclaim under chefs Josh and Julie Niland, will cease trading on Sunday, December 15.
In a statement, the Nilands reflected on their time at the Chandos Street venue, describing it as a period of joy and creativity shared with their team and guests. However, they acknowledged the increasingly difficult commercial environment as a key factor behind their decision.
“The past 12 months have been extremely challenging for independent businesses within the hospitality industry,” the Nilands stated. “Sadly, Julie and I have had to make the decision to close Petermen.”
The couple extended their gratitude to the local community, their team, and their suppliers for supporting the venture, emphasising the continuation of their culinary efforts through their other venue, Saint Peter and Fish Butchery.
Ther venue built a tremendous reputation in its short tenure, with Gourmet Traveller describing it as “Australia’s most seminal seafood restaurant. “