Asian-inspired restaurant Piggybacks on Palmwoods’ growing reputation as a destination

The owner of two of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular Asian-inspired restaurants has brought one of the region’s most renowned restaurant buildings back to life. 

On Thursday (November 4) Tony Kelly opened his third Asian-themed venue on the site of Clio’s at 1 Koorawatha Lane Palmwoods.

Mr Kelly said the new restaurant, Piggyback, was inspired by the DNA of his current Asian fusion restaurants Rice Boy which is located at the Mooloolaba Wharf and Giddy Geisha in the Maroochydore CBD. 

“We’ve invested a lot of time and resources to create a truly unique experience for diners and I’m really proud of what we have created at Palmwoods. I live in this community so I’m keen to offer locals something which quite frankly, until now has only been available along the coastal strip.

“The 180 seat venue will have an Indonesian and Malaysian street food-inspired menu which cherry picks the very best from our two other venues while also offering some new dishes with a special twist such as Banh Mi and Beef Pho which I am quietly confident will be winners.

“We also have a purpose-built yakitori grill so there will be a good selection of sticks of delicious meats and seafoods cooked over charcoal and a full bar which includes a selection of craft beers on tap or by the bottle.

“Palmwoods is such a great location, my family and I love living here and the success of other local diners such as Rick’s Garage and The Shed proves that there is a market for venues which have a strong focus on quality food and service,” Tony said.

Mr Kelly said the venue would create up to 35 full and part time jobs with a number of employees coming from the local community. 

• Piggyback is located at 1 Koorawatha Lane Palmwoods and is open seven days a week. No bookings available. Walk in only. www.piggyb.com.au

From left, Tony Kelly with joint owner Elyza Molloy and Executive Chef Mitch Smith.