Unique dining!

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 247, 21 June 1988, Page 5

Unique dining!

Looking for somewhere totally unique to dine in Ohakune? Nobby's Restaurant can oblige! Proprietor 'Nobby' Clarke - a nickname reminiscent of his naval days, recently spent considerable time and money totally remodelling the restaurant's interior. Nobby's Restaurant is a far cry from the takeaway bar that he first owned. Nobby arrived i n Ohakune from four years in the navy, in 1980, and worked for a season as a lift operator with Turoa Skifields. An opportunity to rent commercial premises at the Ohakune Junction arose in 1981 and for two years he operated a successful takeaway

bar. Nobby returned to naval duty in 1986 and spent a year diving in the North Sea, on oil rigs. During his overseas stay he worked parttime in various restaurants. It was there he started compiling some ideas on interior design. The new-look bistro style of Nobby's Restaurant hints at the contemporary design of European restaurants. An interesting feature is the ceiling decoration - newapapers accumulated by Nobby in his overseas travels. Since extensive renovations the dining area is three times bigger, now accommodating 60, and the size of the kitchen doubled to cater for up to 120 customers a night.

While the look may be up-market, Nobby intends to continue his tradition of value for money. The extensive blackboard menu that features Mexican, Asian and continental cuisine, is changed weekly. Nobby prides himself on offering good meals, good service and giving his customers a good time. A genuine 1950's jukebox with original selections stands in the corner of the dance floor, where live acts will entertain diners during the ski season. The restaurant i s open from 6- 10pm for main meals, and 10pmlam for entrees and desserts. While still BYO, Nobby's Restaurant is awaiting approval for a liquor licence.