Head away from the main roads and drive towards one of the less well-known corners of Western Port to discover Cptn Jack’s, one of the Peninsula’s best-kept secrets. This restaurant at Yaringa Boat Harbour is the kind of waterside venue it can be hard to find these days, marrying the whimsical charm of the seafaring life with the simplicity and elegance of Nantucket style.

Whether visiting as a stopover to or from the city or seeking it out as a special destination, this hidden treasure is worth the detour. The view from Cptn Jack’s alone is a feast for the eyes, with stunning vistas over the working harbour where boats drift in and out against a backdrop of natural beauty, including an adjacent national park and serene mangroves.

‘Work like a Captain, play like a Pirate’ is the ethos at Cptn Jack’s, and it shines through in its unpretentious and wholesome atmosphere. The newly refurbished interiors strike a balance between relaxed and sophisticated, creating a setting that is both welcoming and refined.

The Mediterranean-inspired menu of Cptn Jack’s emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The culinary offerings include a range of shared plates and abundant seafood dishes, crafted to showcase the rich bounty of the region. Each menu item tells a story of the local farmers and artisans who contribute to the vibrant flavours, helping to foster a sense of community and support for local produce that is at the heart of the Cptn Jack’s philosophy. Be sure not to miss the signature housemade flatbread cooked in the newly installed wood-fired oven.

Whether it’s the intimate indoor dining or the picturesque all-weather terrace, every meal at Cptn Jack’s feels special. The casual elegance and commitment to superior ingredients ensure that Cptn Jack’s is always a destination worth hunting down.

Opening hours: Thursday-Saturday 11.30am-8.30pm; Sunday 11.30am-5.30pm

Cptn Jack’s

Yaringa Boat Harbour, 1 Lumeah Rd, Somerville

P: 5977 4939

www.cptnjacks.com.au

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