Australia – 19 October 2023: Crystalbrook Collection, Australia's largest independent five-star sustainability-led hospitality company, has opened the doors to Calypso Club - its latest addition to Cairns' vibrant hospitality scene. Located at the heart of Crystalbrook Riley resort, the specialty rum and seafood bar is poised to be the hottest new dining destination in Tropical North Queensland.

Surrounded by swaying palm trees and endless cerulean skies, the newly unveiled bar transports patrons to a nostalgic era – reminiscent of idyllic coastal holidays spent on sun-kissed shores, lazing by the beach and leisurely sipping cocktails in the warm breeze. More than just a resort bar, Calypso Club is a destination where strangers become friends, and where every guest is a VIP.

Calypso Club proudly reflects a commitment to sustainability and seasonality, with fresh local seafood sourced to craft a menu inspired by Australian fish and chip shops and American crab shacks. Notable dish highlights include Fish burgers, refreshing Coral trout ceviche and the signature 'Calypso Roll': a nod to the iconic lobster rolls of New England, featuring a local seasonal shellfish.

Renowned cocktail specialist Tom Bulmer, celebrated for his artistry at The Social Spirits, has joined forces with Calypso Club to curate a refined cocktail program. Highlights from the drinks menu include the 'Clarified Coco'- combining Havana Club Anejo Rum, coconut, coffee, spices and colada foam - and 'Club Stinger', a blend of local Mt. Uncle Distillery aged rum, Rinomato, Agricole, hibiscus, watermelon and grapefruit.

Melissa Shaw, Crystalbrook Riley General Manager, said: “We are thrilled to introduce Calypso Club as the newest addition to Cairns' hospitality scene in time for the summer months. As we unveil this new tropical oasis, we're looking forward to offering a dining destination that captivates the senses and reflects the vibrant essence of Cairns. We can't wait to share the charm of Calypso Club with our guests."

Designed by acclaimed interior architecture and design studio Mitchell & Eades, the Calypso Club experience seamlessly marries an indoor-outdoor flow, with capacity for 100 guests. With vibrant, playful hues and an ambience of timeless charm, the interior brings to life the spirit of paradise, while the outdoor setting exudes tropical holiday vibes. The entrance welcomes guests with a hand-painted mural created by renowned Melbourne-based artist Mark Conlon, whose characteristically whimsical style and bold use of colour pair perfectly with the venue's design.

With a unique blend of coastal inspired dishes, a focus on local and international rums, and an abundance of fresh seasonal tropical fruit - Calypso Club is set to take patrons on a journey through Far North Queensland's sugarcane-soaked history, while establishing itself as a must-visit for anyone who takes the business of holidays seriously. 

Opening hours:

Wednesday - Sunday

Bar: 12:00pm - late

Kitchen: 1:00pm - 8:30pm

For further information, menus and bookings: crystalbrookcollection.com/riley/calypsoclub

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About Crystalbrook 

Crystalbrook is one of Australia's leading sustainable and innovative independent hospitality companies. Each hotel in the portfolio carries an authentic expression of its location, a passion for responsible luxury, considered design and a twinkle of fun for a uniquely enriching experience.

Crystalbrook's portfolio includes: 

- Crystalbrook Riley, Cairns, Queensland 

- Crystalbrook Albion, Sydney, New South Wales 

- Crystalbrook Byron, Byron Bay, New South Wales

- Crystalbrook Bailey, Cairns, Queensland 

- Crystalbrook Flynn, Cairns, Queensland 

- Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle, New South Wales

- Crystalbrook Vincent, Brisbane, Queensland

The Group also owns and operates a collection of sixteen restaurants and bars, three spas, and Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina in Port Douglas.

Responsible Luxury

Responsible Luxury and sustainability is at the forefront of the way Crystalbrook thinks and operates. At a glance:

• Operating a single use plastic free environment. No plastic straws, water bottles or single use bathroom amenity bottles (in the past two years the Group has saved over three million plastic bottles from entering landfill)
• Use of technology, such as in-room iPads and mobile check-in to create paperless environments and experiences
• Use of recycled and upcycled materials. Examples include key cards made from recycled wood, coat hangers made from recycled paper and toothbrushes made from sugar cane and corn starch.

Crystalbrook Collection and Ghassan Aboud Group

Crystalbrook Collection is part of Ghassan Aboud Group promoted by international entrepreneur and philanthropist Ghassan Aboud. The group is a multi-business conglomerate engaged in automobiles, real estate, hospitality, FMCG, food, retail, bespoke catering, media and logistics. In business for more than two decades, the group operates from its global headquarters in the United Arab Emirates with offices in Australia, Belgium, Jordan and Turkey.

For further information:   

Claudia Liebenberg, Director Marketing and Communications, Cairns

Crystalbrook Collection

m: 0436 927 475

e: claudia.liebenberg@crystalbrookcollection.com

Meg Osmond, Account Executive

The Mint Partners

m: 0420 515 891

e: meg@themintpartners.com.au