Merewether Surfhouse will become Merewether Pavilion in 2027, with new owners Ben May and Rob Domjen planning a major renovation of the iconic Newcastle beachfront venue.
The hospitality duo behind Burleigh Pavilion, Terrigal Pavilion, The Tropic and The Joey at Palm Beach will officially take over the three-level Merewether site in October, with the venue expected to continue trading largely as it does now throughout summer.
Merewether Surfhouse will then close from February 2027 for a significant renovation before reopening as Merewether Pavilion later in the year.
While the full vision is still being developed, The Tropic, the coastal dining concept established at Burleigh Pavilion, has already been confirmed as part of the new food and beverage offering.
The existing venue directly opposite Merewether Beach includes Surfhouse Restaurant, the Beach Bar, a rooftop bar, event spaces and a beach promenade kiosk.
The long-term plans are centred around creating a venue that can be enjoyed throughout the day, from casual post-surf visits through to dining, drinks, events and celebrations.
May and Domjen, both keen surfers, plan to spend the first few months getting to know the existing venue, its team and the local community before making major changes.
Only minor adjustments to the food and beverage offering, styling and programming are expected before the larger redevelopment begins, with the pair aiming to build on the venue’s existing place in the Merewether community.
Merewether Surfhouse will continue trading through summer before closing in February 2027, with Merewether Pavilion expected to open later in 2027 following the renovation.
