SA’s Flying Fish Café to get major makeover

A South Australian eatery has released plans for $750,000 renovation that includes a new outside deck, kiosk area and increased capacity.

The popular Flying Fish in Port Elliot on the coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula has put the application in with the goal of becoming “the most recognised seaside eatery in South Australia.”

PlanSA received a letter penned to the Alexandrina Council from Flying Fish managing director, Seb Packer.

“The existing building format is extremely challenging to operate from and is now in need of a major overhaul with constant maintenance required to keep the facility running,” Packer wrote.

“It is our desire and firm belief that the Flying Fish should be the most recognised seaside eatery in South Australia.”

Packer described the building as worn out, with an outdated kiosk and restaurant design which he says makes “it extremely challenging to run the business efficiently.”

Plans include a new esplanade entrance and front deck to cater for 60 diners.

The kiosk would be moved from the carpark for safety reasons and would include informal benches for 30 visitors.

“Particularly vital to the business is the new open internal footprint allowing for up to 110 patrons to be seated,” Packer wrote.

“The new zone will offer an amalgamated all-day casual style ‘seaside menu’ that blends the current day time demands of the deck and restaurant users.”

An increased capacity would allow the owner to host weddings and larger functions.

If approved, construction could start in April 2024.

Public comment is open until Wednesday, October 25 via the PlanSA website.

Jonathan Jjackson, 11^th October 2023