IF you’re looking for your next favourite food spot – make a beeline for Viva Coochie.
A revamp by Curlew Café owner Joe Alhalaby – Viva brings fresh energy to a much-loved venue.
With his wife Irina by his side, Joe has reimagined the space as a welcoming hideaway that mixes island ease with culinary flair.
I came hungry and dived straight into the tapas menu – and every dish was a hit.
Then came the cocktails.
The Spicy Margarita packed a punch, while the Jetty Jumper – a spiced rum and absinthe number – channels the island’s free-spirited vibe.
But Viva isn’t just about food and drinks – it’s about the atmosphere. The weekly line-up is part of the magic:
- Wednesday: Steak and schnitzel night – flame-grilled rib eye or pan-fried schnitzels with house-made sauces, chips, and slaw, all under $20.
- Thursday: Global Cuisine night – a rotating set menu from around the world.
- Friday & Saturday: Fine dining à la carte with a focus on fresh, local produce.
- Sunday: Live music with top mainland acts – from rock to blues and pop – bringing the island to life.
If you’re heading home on the ferry or craving comfort food midweek, check out Joe’s Italian – traditional takeaway pizza and pasta from Wednesday to Sunday.
Don’t miss: Viva’s upcoming degustation dinner on June 27.
The soul of Viva comes from the front-of-house team, and behind the scenes, creative Lisa Engeman ignites the venue’s vibe.
Just a $1 return ferry from Victoria Point, Viva Coochie is the kind of place you’ll find yourself coming back to – Coochie just got a whole lot cooler. Check out menus, events and tickets at Viva Coochie on Facebook.
