The Sunshine Coast’s most anticipated venue is now open! On Thursday 2nd March, The Doonan unexpectedly opened and saw an unprecedented amount of people flock to book a table in this brand new hotel.
Over 4,000 people joined the waitlist to book a table in the restaurant and within just one day of reservations being available, lunch and dinner seating’s are almost fully booked for the entire month of March!
Nestled in the scenic Noosa hinterland, just a stone’s throw from the famous local beaches, The Doonan is a garden-themed venue boasting indoor and outdoor dining, beer gardens, bars, a pizzeria, ice creamery, cellar door, multiple function spaces and a large kids playground, coming soon.
The Comiskey Group, owners of iconic venues, Eatons Hill Hotel and Sandstone Point Hotel, partnered with long-time friends, hospitality veterans and Noosa locals, Josh Jones and Neville Allen, to bring another unique venue into the sunny state of Queensland.
In 2006, the Comiskey Group acquired the two-hectare site in Doonan, with plans to develop the property and pre-existing building which operated as a German restaurant.
“We saw a great opportunity when the land in Doonan came up for sale. The property is just an eight-minute drive from the famous Noosa and a five-minute drive from the country town of Eumundi, making it an easy escape for locals and tourists alike! I am pleased to announce that after 17 years of ownership, the community have a new venue to enjoy” says Director Rob Comiskey.
Paying homage to the original building, the landmark structure with its prominent red roof still remains but has been renovated into an internal bar and function space, set among the venue’s extensive alfresco dining areas and beer gardens.
BEFORE & AFTER
Since construction began in 2022, The Doonan’s striking architecture has been a major talking point. More like a plant nursery than a pub, The Doonan oozes character and charm with soft archways and pointed ceilings, decorated in exposed brick. Surrounded by lush greenery, you’ll find photo-worthy designer landscaping, with herb gardens in large planter boxes, expansive lawns, potted plants, hanging pots, vines and garden beds. The Doonan showcases many species of plant, with olive trees a signature throughout.
The Doonan offers the ultimate alfresco dining experience with an Italian-inspired menu and a Marana rotary pizza oven imported from Italy, churning out authentic Neapolitan, rustic-style pizzas with fresh toppings from local suppliers like the neighbouring tomato farm, Noosa Reds.
The Doonan’s incredible outdoor spaces are the perfect spot to enjoy fresh, local produce or a frozen margarita.
Comiskey Group Director Rob Comiskey is excited the $6M project has finally come to fruition.
“It’s been a long road and our team has worked extremely hard to get The Doonan off the ground but it’s been well worth it. We are so looking forward to welcoming visitors, it really is a unique venue and we are so proud of how it has turned out” says Rob.
On Sunday 26th February, The Doonan hosted a private opening party. Director Josh Jones believes the function was a great test run for staff and is confident the team are ready to serve the community.
“It was fantastic to be able to celebrate the completion of The Doonan with friends, family, staff and associates. The private opening party was a great opportunity for our new staff to ease into their roles, it was really nice to see them all in action! A big well done to our team who perfectly demonstrated the hospitality, talent and warmth within this community. We are well-equipped to bring this new exciting venue to life, we are so looking forward to seeing what the future holds for The Doonan” says Josh.
