Honest & Wholesome | Jimmy Joans

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

Jimmy Joans, located on Wilderness Road in Lovedale, is the brainchild of hoteliers Kim and Mick Starkey and hospitality superstars - Chef Thomas Boyd and his wife, Restaurant Manager Eliza Boyd.

The property is owned by Kim and Mick Starkey, who have a long history as publicans, owning Customs House in Newcastle and The Stag & Hunter in Mayfield. When Thomas and Eliza Boyd went looking for a space to run their catering business, the two couples developed the business idea for Jimmy Joans and a new star on the hospitality scene was born. The catchy name of Jimmy Joans is a nod to Kim Starkey’s grandparents, Jim and Joan Moyle and evokes a sense of family.

Both Thomas and Eliza are locals who are Michelin trained in London. Thomas worked as head chef at Margan’s for three years before the couple decided to start their own catering business in 2021. Jimmy Joans offers uncomplicated, honest and wholesome food available all day from 8am to 9pm. It’s a blend of a fine-dining restaurant with a bar and a casual eatery that works a treat.

The menu includes casual snacks, share-style main courses and gastro-pub classics that are in season and beautifully seasoned with a focus on local produce. The menu often changes, so locals can always find something new to savour – like the Scotch Egg, super tasty and served with piccalilli or Mussells in White Wine served with tomato, fennel and sourdough.

The wines are served by the glass and have been chosen to provide something for every taste, with many local wines and some interesting out-of-area offerings. There’s an extensive cocktail and mocktail list, and White Rabbit Dark Ale is on tap because Jim Moyle loved his dark beer. Every Sunday from 2pm to 5pm, there is live music by local artists.

Going against trend, no reservations are required for the bar and outdoor areas at Jimmy Joans, and it’s family-friendly, with plenty of space for the little ones to run around and enjoy themselves. There are also accommodation options on the property, and the vibe is relaxed, fun and friendly.

Jimmy Joans can be discovered on Wilderness Rd in Lovedale and is open Thursdays through Sundays from 8am until late. Visit www. jimmyjoans.com.au for more info.