Restaurants housed in Rosemont Hall on Prospect Rd set for ‘soft launch’ reopening by end of year

The heritage venue was devastated by a fire two years ago, but a social media post by the local state member has revealed its story is far from over.

A beloved Prospect restaurant that was destroyed by a devastating fire has hinted at a grand reopening in the new year.

Opened in 2017, the family-owned Mr Chan restaurant was housed alongside takeaway outfit Sunny’s Shop in Rosemont Hall on Prospect Rd.

On September 16 2021, a fire tore through the heritage-listed building in the early hours of the morning forcing its closure for more than two years.

Firefighters survey the ruins of Rosemont Hall after it was gutted by a fire in 2021. Picture: Keryn Stevens

However, the local member for parliament Lucy Hood appeared with owners Aaron and One Ratanatray on Facebook to confirm the venue was about to open a new chapter.

“After two long years, One, Aaron & Tamara are preparing to reopen their iconic Prospect Road business after a devastating fire destroyed it in 2021,” Ms Hood wrote on Facebook.

“I got a sneak peak of the rebuild and was blown away by their efforts to faithfully recreate our beloved Prospect Road icon.

“A soft launch of Sunny’s Shop menu is anticipated by the end of the year, with both dining spaces to officially open in the new year.

“They’ve literally risen from the ashes – and I know our community is ready and waiting to support them 100%!”

Rosemont Hall owner Aaron Ratanatray at his Mr Chan restaurant. Picture: Matt Turner

Rosemont Hall commanded a cult following among inner-north diners, with many waiting to be seated on a Friday and Saturday night.

After the fire, which was ruled an accident, locals flocked to the burnt out facade leaving flowers and cards.

Originally built in 1924, the council ruled the fire-ravaged structure was beyond repair and needed to be knocked down.

It has since been rebuilt with one Facebook user writing it “looks identical to the original”.

A spokeswoman for Rosemont Hall said more details were coming soon.

“We cannot wait to fire up the woks and welcome everyone back, both familiar faces and new, to our revamped space with some jasmine tea and mouth-watering dishes,” she said.