Henley Beach Kiosk
The Kiosk in Henley Square has played a significant role in the life of local residents. It opened in December 1911 with a roof top garden and originally had a pair of octagonal bays with moulded parapets supported by timber posts that made it easily recognisable and an impressive landmark.
It was built by the Municipal Tramways Trust to encourage people to use the trams to travel to the beach.
“The kiosk will be replete with every convenience necessary for an up-to-date restaurant and tea rooms. It is fitted with electric light throughout and the rooms are light, large and airy. For the time being the ground floor portion only is being used but as soon as the building is finished which should be within a few weeks, there will be a large and lofty hall on the next floor which can be used for parties and balls. On top of the kiosk itself there is a large space for open tea gardens”
(abridged from ‘The Advertiser’ Tuesday 19 December 1911)
During the 1960’s Moby Dicks tavern occupied the building serving meals and running dances, it was a Chinese restaurant in the 70’s and 80’s and since then the Thai Orchard restaurant has occupied the ground floor with the seaside bar and restaurant, Seamore’s on the top floor.
The building is important for its association with the Municipal Tramways Trust and the development of public transport in Adelaide. However, its real significance over its 100+ years is seen in its adoption by the local community as a gathering point for social occasions.
Image credit: Henley & Grange Historical Society
This building was occupying the rsl for some time.
I loved this building. And remember the RSL as part of it, upstairs. Would be in the 1950s. I was probably about 7 or 8 years old, and was enticed to be part of a fashion parade there. I was one of the younger participants.
I cringe, as I had seen models model clothes, and thought I had to hold my hands outwards as I walked and swung my hips. Thank goodness there were no photos taken.
I can also remember dances there, and being young, didn’t dance, but some of the RSL members (men) would ask me to dance, and I would stand on their leather shoes while they did the dance steps, with me standing on their feet. To me, then, that was a very ‘grown-up’ thing to do.
In 70’s and 80’s it was the “Hai Wong” run by David. He then operated in the Central Market food court and more recently in David Jones food court.