Iconic Cuckoo Restaurant freehold hits market for historic sale

One of Melbourne’s most iconic restaurants and tourist attractions— linked to one of the city’s biggest mysteries — is for sale for only the second time in 60 years.

One of Melbourne’s most iconic restaurants and tourist attractions— linked to one of the city’s biggest mysteries — is for sale for only the second time in 60 years.

The Cuckoo Restaurant, renowned for its Swiss chalet-style architecture and Bavarian-themed interior, is on the Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, is close to the township of Olinda and has an asking price of around $4m.

The listing boasts a three storey venue complete with a deck, courtyard, offices, function spaces, a stage, a commercial kitchen as well as extensive smorgasbord and carvery facilities.

The Cuckoo Restaurant is a staple tourist destination in Olinda. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Also on the 9.5 acre property, are additional amenities such as cellar and cool room facilities, emergency generators, ample shedding, and a caretakers’ cottage.

The site also has multiple on-site carparks capable of accommodating over 400 vehicles, making it an ideal venue for large-scale events and gatherings.

The Cuckoo Restaurant in Olinda opened in 1958. Picture: Steve Tanner

The iconic venue has welcomed more than seven million tourists since Karin and Willi Koeppen opened the restaurant in 1958.

Famous guests included former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, The Rolling Stones and Beatle George Harrison.

In 1958, Willi was Australia’s first celebrity chef with regular TV and radio shows.

Willi disappeared in 1976 and the case remains an open investigation with the Victoria Police Missing Persons division.

Willi Koeppen, co-owner of the Cuckoo Restaurant, went missing in 1976.

The German-inspired tourist establishment traded successfully for 62 years until Covid hit, with the restaurant shutting its doors in 2020.

Eric Walters purchased the venue after it closed and planned renovations for the venue.

The Cuckoo is closed apart from offering takeaway coffees and toasted sandwiches.

The venue was listed for sale on June 15 by Bell Real Estate.

“With an unbeatable location, previous turnover of over $5m, and possibilities to lease or redevelop, this property will undoubtably be a site of choice for those looking for an unparalleled opportunity in the Dandenong Ranges,” the listing read.