#65 - Tony Kelly, Director, Tony Kelly Restaurant Group

Born and raised on the Sunshine Coast, Tony remains deeply grateful for the unwavering support of the Sunshine Coast community throughout his culinary career. Tony's evolution from a young apprentice at the Hyatt Coolum in the 90s to the accomplished entrepreneur he is today is a testament to his unwavering commitment to success. His ventures consistently deliver exceptional dining experiences with creative and innovative concepts, unique venues, and talented teams. Three pivotal moments define Tony Kelly's career. Firstly, The Wine Bar Restaurant, his maiden foray into ownership, opened in 2003, garnering numerous accolades for its luxe fit-out, private dining room, degustation experiences, and extensive wine selection. This establishment served as Tony's declaration as a produce-driven, meticulous chef with a talent for commanding both his audience and his team. Tony's next chapter saw him excel at Stokehouse Q, where he attained two hats in the Good Food Guide. Working for the influential Van Haandel Group honed his culinary prowess and reinforced his dedication to pleasing guests. In 2017, Tony's path connected with Dirk Long, owner of The Wharf, Mooloolaba, leading to the creation of Rice Boi, a bustling Asian street food hotspot that ignited the Sunshine Coast dining scene. This unique venture marked the inception of Tony's enduring success. Today, Tony Kelly oversees and contributes to his diverse portfolio of brands while actively participating in industry discussions, mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, and engaging with students interested in hospitality careers. Tony is always interested in future opportunities for the group and enjoys the creative process of putting together new concepts for the Sunshine Coast community.