James McMahon to carry on the Catalina legacy

The Catalina fine dining restaurant in NSW is entering a new phase, six months after the shock death of its founder Michael McMahon. 

On 28 April, McMahon who had been suffering from serious health issues for many years, suffered a massive heart attack at the age of 66. 

His wife Judy was his business partner in the oceanfront restaurant that was frequented by celebrities and millionaires.

During lockdown, Catalina, now run by Judy, started offering a high-end delivery and takeaway service allowing those living in Eastern Sydney the opportunity to enjoy decadent meals in their own homes. 

Now that restaurants have been allowed to open up again in NSW, Judy says Michael’s presence continues to loom large.

“There’s a grief there in the dining room which I feel every day,” says Judy.

James, their son, now manages the restaurant floor and he says the future of the Rose Bay restaurant will retain his father’s vision and values.

“Dad loved the idea of those Italian families who pass the business down through generation after generation,” he says. 

“I can’t wait for my family to grow up and come and work here. It’s such a special place and certainly something that we all feel he wanted.”