Up-market lounge bar Papa Js to open beneath Hoyts Cronulla in March after DA approval

The owners of top restaurants Summer Salt on Elouera beach and Jensens at Kareela, have been given the go-ahead for the new venue by Sutherland Shire Planning Panel.

Catering for up to 120 patrons, the bar is being fitted out in the space previously occupied by Buddha Beach Thai restaurant, which closed in December 2018.

Ms Jensen said Papa Js, which was designed for all ages, would open in March next year.

"The bar and everything around it is inspired by the Rat Pack era in Las Vegas," she said.

"It will be really high-end, like going into a beautiful, up-market hotel and enjoying lovely shared plates and cocktails," she said.

"I don't believe there is a high-end bar in the area at present."

A Facebook post introduced the "dynamic trio" behind the venture:

"Josh Metcalfe's drinks menu will heavily focus on his signature style cocktails, boutique wine and craft beers.

"Carl Jensen's bar menu will feature sophisticated small bites and share plates using the best of seasonal produces.

"Brooke Jensen will focus on a classy FOH (front of house) service and comfy table service, making every customer feel like a movie star."

Ms Jensen said they were looking at the location before Hoyts decided late last year to take over the historic Cronulla Cinema after Event Cinemas announced it was pulling out.

"The building itself is quite interesting with its history and its height," she said.

"The icing on the cake was Hoyts moving in and the design they are doing."

Ms Jensen said another plus with the location was being so close to Rydges hotel and the visitors it brought to the area.

The name Papa Js (no apostrophe) derives from the children of the business partners. Both lots of children call their dads Papa J.

Ms Jensen said they believed the timing of the new venture was good.

"Both of our restaurants are going extremely well [in the COVID-19 environment]," she said.

"Without being able to travel, people are looking to enjoy nights out, but without travelling far from home.

The panel, in a unanimous decision, said the use of the space was "suited to the site and area, and will help activate the area and night time economy".

Approved hours are midday to midnight daily.

The period from 10pm to midnight on Sunday nights has been allowed for a trial over a year.