Phat Brew Club Opens at Hillarys Boat Harbour with Brewery and Family Play Area
Hillarys Boat Harbour is set to welcome its first craft brewery this week, as Phat Brew Club officially opens its highly anticipated northern suburbs venue. Doors will open on Friday, marking the culmination of an 18-month project since the West Perth institution took over the old Jetty's building on the Hillarys boardwalk.
The iconic waterfront building had been vacant since The California Pizza Kitchen closed in 2019. After an extensive renovation, the owners of Phat Brew Club believe they have found a long-term tenant for this prime location, transforming it into a vibrant new hotspot.
A Unique Offering for Families and Beer Enthusiasts
Managing director Travis Moore expressed confidence that Phat Brew Club will stand out in the family-friendly area. The venue boasts the boardwalk's only brewery and an exclusive in-house play area—a 15-square-meter sandpit designed for children. "We've got a really different offering to your standard fare. From a beer perspective, the offering is like nothing else in that precinct," Moore said.
He added, "And everyone keeps saying to us the same thing—there's nothing really for the families, there's nothing set up to do." This new development aims to fill that gap, providing a welcoming environment for all ages.
Beer and Menu Highlights
The neon branding and a large mural by local artist Daniela Guevara, known as Rose Angel, make Phat Brew Club unmistakable on the boardwalk. The brewery will feature approximately 20 tap beers, ranging from popular options like the OG Pale Ale and Hazy Mid to unique offerings such as a coffee porter and a bubblegum sour.
The modern Australian menu, distinct from the West Perth venue, includes pub classics like chicken parmigiana and steak sandwiches, all cooked on a charcoal grill. Catering to the suburb's British and Irish expat community, the menu also features dishes such as fish and chips and bangers and mash, paired with an Irish stout that Moore describes as "absolutely banging."
Among the must-try items, Moore recommends "The World's Best Beer"—a 4.5% citrussy creation developed in collaboration with influencer Perth Dude Food—and the steak sandwich with peppercorn sauce and candied bacon.
Renovation Challenges and Artistic Touches
The renovation process was not without its difficulties, with the venue presenting "a few surprises" that delayed the planned opening before the end of summer. Funded by $1 million in crowdfunding, the owners were able to realize their vision in time for the Easter holidays.
In addition to the mural, artist Daniela Guevara has created a wall of painted beer kegs inside the venue, adding to the artistic ambiance. Moore commented on the location, saying, "The location is obviously amazing, there's a real vibe around the place, and we want to be a part of that. Hopefully, there's still some of the good weather out there too."
Phat Brew Club opens at Hillarys Boat Harbour on Friday, offering a new destination for craft beer lovers and families alike.
