Café precinct at Perth Zoo raises the bar for function centres

The popular Perth Zoo is set to attract the corporate dollar, as part of the Perth Zoo Master Plan 2040.

The Maali function and events centre is set among the zoo’s habitats and will open this spring as the café precinct takes shape.

Compass Group Australia’s Restaurant Associates Venues has been appointed the commercial operator.

The group has vast experience in this area, with Restaurant Associates Venues being the current operator of Werribee and Melbourne Zoo in Victoria.

Compass Group Australia executive director Michael Lambourne said, “The stunning new retail and function facilities will be transformational for the Zoo and the perfect platform for us to introduce our quality and innovative catering services.

“Our menus will incorporate locally sourced produce and will be tailored to deliver value to drive customer satisfaction and engagement.”

The opening of the function centre will mark another milestone for Perth Zoo as it celebrates its 125th anniversary.

Zoo goers can enjoy a meal at Habitat or grab a snack from takeaway outlet Wag Tails.

A new coffee and wine bar, Distill and Brew, is also being planned.

The function centre will be the centrepiece of the development and will be available for weddings, corporate events and other functions.

Environment Minister Reece Whitby was in full support of the precinct saying, “The new cafe and function centre are truly state-of-the-art facilities and will enhance the visitor experience like never before.

“The function centre will raise the bar for event spaces in Perth.”

Jonathan Jackson, 7^th September 2023