Source : Perth Now news
After millions of guests, thousands of rotations, and countless memories, Perth’s iconic C Restaurant will turn for the last time on January 31, 2027.
The fine dining venue 33 floors into the sky began revolving in 1978 when it opened as Hilite 33, before transitioning to C Restaurant in 2001 where it has continued to offer 360-degree views of Perth’s CBD along with award-winning contemporary cuisine.
A redevelopment of St Martin’s Tower is behind the closure, with the building set to be converted into a hotel.
Fourth generation restaurateur Olivier Letrone has been a co-owner of C Restaurant since August 2006, recruited a few years earlier as general manager.
The Frenchman had worked across Europe and the US in Michelin star restaurants, luxury hotels, and cruise ships, before arriving in Perth in 1997.
He recalled falling in love with the C Restaurant’s breathtaking view and relaxed atmosphere, and is now proud to say he’s hosted more than 2 million guests for a high tea, lavish lunch, or a sumptuous sundowner.
“Every day for me is filled with highlights, witnessing guests celebrating so many special occasions — because the restaurant is a special occasion restaurant,” he told The West Australian.
Without wanting to name too many, he listed former footy players Nic Naitanui and Nat Fyfe as past diners, as well as Aussie cricket personality Justin Langer, and Perth-based Grey’s Anatomy star Kate Walsh.
Among the unforgettable moments he’s witnessed are literally thousands of wedding proposals, with Mr Letrone’s team performing a ritual each time his restaurant plays host.
“We always come up with a glass of champagne for the newly engaged couple, and 99.99 per cent of the time, it’s successful,” he said.
“That’s always a happy moment. But we’ve seen a few disappointments, not many, thankfully.”
The State’s only revolving restaurant has won countless fine dining awards and welcomed an array of talented chefs and sommeliers.
Admitting news of the redevelopment came as a “shock”, the empathetic owner’s first thought was reserved for his 90-strong team.
“We are saddened that this new chapter of the tower will affect a restaurant that’s been a part of Perth skyline and people’s lives for so many years,” Mr Letrone said.
“Change is a change, and I understand that, but it was difficult to admit because when you put your heart and soul into everything you do, and it goes through all the major events and world events that we went through, including the pandemic and global financial crisis and all those things, then it’s sad to actually have to terminate your time there.”
General manager Ann-Marie Gill said it had been a “privilege” to work at the venue for six years, and is proud to have left her mark.
“Although it’s difficult to say goodbye, I’ll always be proud to have been part of C Restaurant’s story,” she said.
As the countdown to closure begins, Mr Letrone urged diners to return for one final special occasion before the opportunity passes, naming Melbourne Cup and New Year’s Eve as a couple of events worth celebrating.
With one or two other business interests in Perth, the owner admitted there would be a void left by the C Restaurant when it finally comes to a halt.
However, hopeful of retaining many of his staff, the owner has not ruled out starting a new dining chapter in some capacity.
“Watch this space,” he said.
“Maybe not fine dining, but we’ll see.”
