The team behind Tomodachi Izakaya Bar continue to grow their portfolio with Waterfront View

Hospitality hero, Michael Bong is on a winning streak with the fourth restaurant to his Geelong resume, Waterfront View.

In 2016 as the foundations for Geelong’s biggest hospitality hotspot were being laid, Chef Michael Bong, a maestro hailing from South Korea, saw an opportunity. Taking over 85a Little Malop Street, Michael Bong brought Tomodachi Izakaya Bar to life, fast becoming a staple dining experience in the Geelong precinct.

WATERFRONT VIEW – (Modern Australian Grill & Wine)

• Where: Shop 2 6-8 Eastern Beach Road Geelong VIC 3220
• When: Mon – Thur 9.00am -2.30pm / 5.00pm – 8.30pm,  Fri – Sun 9.00am – 9 00pm
• Menu & Website : waterfrontview.com.au

TOMODACHI IZAKAYA BAR

Introducing Geelong to the Izakaya style of dining, the menu delivered a mouth-watering menu of Japanese cuisine to the cultural strip, proudly offering charcoal grill and skewered succulent meats like pork belly, beef, chicken, fresh seafood and sashimi along with a hearty heap of vegetarian options. They also delve into the depth of traditional Japanese cuisine with takoyaki, tempura, karaage, unagi, and okonomiyaki, as well as octopus pancake balls and salt and pepper squid.

Cementing his footprint into the foundations of Geelong dining, Michael Bong built his business portfolio, adding BBQ Legend to the mix. Located a stones throw from the first establishment, BBQ Legend offered a more casual dining experience for customers, pairing authentic Korean Fried Chicken with a cold beverage of beer. A twist on the classic pub, the Moorabool Street spot quickly became a favourite for all things fried and frothie.

Developing these two businesses and maintaining them during a pandemic are no easy feat but Michael Bong did it effortlessly – a testament to the two outrageously delicious dining options. In fact the demand for Tomodachi continued in an upward trajectory. Barely lifted from the confines of lockdowns and mask-wearing, Michael Bong bulleted back into business development mode, setting sights on the Geelong waterfront this time.

Taking over Shop 3, 6-8 Eastern Beach Road would be version two of the first beloved establishment. Tomodachi 2.0 brought all of the elements of the first setting, elevating them with an added brunch option. With breath-taking waterfront views, the now popular brunch and bar spot, thanks to their curated cocktail list, attracts Geelong waterfront tourists and locals alike.

You would think by now Michael Bong has his hands full – three highly successful hospitality gems in the Geelong region to his name but never content in his cooking capacity, Michael Bong is back with restaurant number four.

Keeping with the waterfront location and grill grounds, meet Waterfront View, Michael Bong’s latest grill and bar creation.

 

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Waterfront View is a modern Australian grill and wine bar, marrying modernity with tradition in authentic Australian eating. Greeted with an ambiance, as well as again highlighting the glorious Corio Bay border, Waterfront View has undergone a significant transformation, leaning into the local flavours of the land and the sea.

The menu has been meticulously curated to deliver an immersive culinary journey to reflect Michael Bong’s life, drawing in from his ripe start in culinary at the age of 14 and exploring his relationship with Australian ingredients. Fresh seafood is the star along with a delight of delicious meats.

Adding to the allure is the pairings of refreshing tap beer and a variety of local and sources wines. A wall is stacked with tantalising drops from around the world, elevating the dining experience.

 

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Locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining in Geelong, and that’s just because of Michael Bong’s breadth! Whilst they are all must tries, help to welcome the newest addition to the Geelong Waterfront in.

Find out more about Waterfront View and all of Michael Bong’s brilliant businesses here.