It was the development that polarised Sydney’s Northern Beaches last year, but against all odds, the Pasadena in Church Point has finally opened its doors.

The once bustling motel and popular wedding venue was abandoned in 2009 and had become somewhat of an eyesore for the local area. After purchasing the property in 2012, husband and wife team Paul and Sheridan Peterkin embarked on a gruelling labour of love, determined to restore the site to its former glory.

Despite ongoing protests from the local community and council, the Peterkins soldiered on with a complete refurbishment of the restaurant and hotel, which has just been completed.

The resulting new look honours the venue’s history and location (courtesy of floor-to-ceiling windows) while ushering in a new era of modern dining and accommodation. The new menu is equally a reflection of the surrounding area; with a focus on local. Start your dining experience with a bite of burrata and heirloom tomatoes followed by a dozen oysters prepared as nature intended, au naturale.

Mains are a parade of seafood dishes, ranging from squid ink prawn linguine to beer battered fish and chips. But plant-based eaters have also not been forgotten, with vegetarian offerings including a spiced chickpea and sweet potato vegan bowl.

Those eager to continue their festivities can with an overnight stay at The Pasadena. Boasting interior decor inspired by the 1929 Art Deco movement, there are 14 boutique guest rooms complete with water views to choose from. And, with direct access to Pittwater and The Hawkesbury river, the prime location has plenty of opportunities for spending time by the water.

Pasadena Sydney
1858 Pittwater Road, Church Point
pasadenasydney.com