Merivale magnate Justin Hemmes spotted in Byron Bay to start Cheeky Monkey’s redevelopment

Merivale magnate Justin Hemmes has been spotted in Byron Bay to work on the Cheeky Monkey’s site, with the redevelopment set to send waves through the competitive hospitality scene.

Margot Robbie wasn’t the only celebrity spotted in Byron Bay recently. Merivale Magnate Justin Hemmes was also seen in the NSW holiday hotspot to commence plans on his expansion into the area.

Hemmes confirmed his hospitality expansion into Byron when he purchased the famed Cheeky Monkey’s Bar in 2021 for an estimated $13.5m.

Cheeky Monkey’s was forced to close its doors in March 2020 due to the pandemic and Merivale hasn’t touched it since.

After launching Oti, a casual sandwich and pizza by the slice by in the Sydney CBD last week, Hemmes travelled to Byron with his architect to commence the process of redeveloping the site on the coveted Jonson Street.

It’s also understood that while in town to start plans for Cheeky Monkey’s, he was looking at an additional property.

Hemmes bought the famous Cheeky Monkey's Bar in Byron Bay in 2021.

At the time of purchase, Hemmes told The Daily Telegraph he was looking forward to spending more time the area.

“I’ve been going to Byron since I was ten years old, so it has always been a place close to my heart. I can’t wait to open our first venue on the North Coast and spend more time in the area.

“There’s simply no place like it,” Mr Hemmes said at the time of purchase.

Hemmes has turned his focus to expanding his empire in North NSW. Picture: Richard Dobson

In March, Hemmes added to his personal property portfolio, buying up an exclusive beachfront section of Belongil Beach for more than $17 million.

The movement at the Cheeky Monkey’s station is set to send waves through Byron Bay’s food and hospitality scene, which has become one the most competitive markets in the state.

Restaurateur Maurice Terzini, of Bondi’s Icebergs fame, launched his first Byron Bay venue, Belongil Beach Italian Food, in 2021.

In May last year the team behind popular Asian restaurant Light Years (which also has posts in Newcastle) expanded their reach in the area, launching Frankie’s Gelato.

Maurice Terzini opened Belongil Beach Italian Food in 2021. Picture: Nikki To

Bayleaf Cafe in Byron Bay is a favourite of celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and Zac Efron. Picture: Nathan Edwards

They then also opened up Italian restaurant Pixie, which is next door to Light Years.

The group also opened a hibachi grill and wine bar Moonlight, and there are rumours they are set to open another venue in the coming months.

Meanwhile Bayleaf Cafe – which has been a favourite of celebrities like Zac Efron and Chris Hemsworth, has also come up for sale.