Since opening its doors in mid-December last year, John John’s Diner has quickly established itself as a vibrant fixture of the Orbost community.
Owned and operated by local businessman Luke Oakley, the family-friendly, Aussie-style diner was born from a desire to fill a clear gap in the local food scene.
At the time of its conception, Orbost lacked a dedicated takeaway fish and chips or burger shop, as well as a relaxed diner where patrons could enjoy continuous service from lunch straight through to dinner.
“We recognised a gap in the market,” Mr Oakley said, who also owns Orbost Real Estate and is deeply invested in the town’s future.
“We saw an opportunity to create a welcoming place that offers great food and a modern dining experience that caters to both locals and visitors passing through.”
Operating from Tuesday to Saturday between 11am and 8pm, as well as on selected Sundays and public holidays, the diner offers a diverse menu.
Its specialties include gourmet burgers, parmas, pasta, fresh salads, and Asian-style Filo meals.
Among the most popular dishes is the signature fish and chips, which features light-battered, locally sourced gummy shark.
Recently, the diner expanded its offerings to include coffee and a newly introduced all-day breakfast menu, providing customers with even more options throughout the day.
For Mr Oakley and his family, establishing the business in Orbost was a natural decision.
Having called the town home for years, they wanted to introduce a fresh dining experience that would complement the region and give travellers another compelling reason to stop, stay, and support the local economy.
Inside the diner, the connection to the region is visible on the walls, which showcase historic and scenic photographs of Orbost and its surroundings.
“It’s our way of sharing the area’s beauty and rich history while giving visitors a genuine sense of what makes our town so special,” Mr Oakley explained.
Many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the standard of food and the modern dine-in setting they find in a small country town.
“Hearing those comments is something we’re incredibly proud of, and it motivates us to continue delivering a great dining experience,” Mr Oakley said.
While many patrons enjoy the lively atmosphere, some may not realise that the diner is a hands-on, family-run operation.
Additionally, the name “John John” carries a personal touch – it is the childhood nickname of the diner’s head chef.
Looking ahead, Mr Oakley envisions the diner evolving into both a local favourite and a key destination for travellers in East Gippsland.
Future plans include further expanding the menu, incorporating more locally sourced produce, wines, and craft beers, and positioning the diner as a premier venue for private functions, business meetings and community gatherings.
As the business marks seven months of successful trading, Mr Oakley is quick to credit the local community for the diner’s positive start.
“We’d like to sincerely thank the Orbost community and everyone who has supported us since we opened our doors,” Mr Oakley said.
“The encouragement and kindness we’ve received has been overwhelming, and we’re truly grateful. If you haven’t visited us yet, we’d love to welcome you in for a coffee, a meal, or simply a friendly chat.”
