Your local pizza joint with a tropical twist
Tropicana Social Club located in Woy Woy will have you feeling a million miles away with their tropical vintage decor, funky tunes, great pizzas and of course, an array of delicious cocktails, essential for that holiday vibe.
In 2014, Cate and Tim Stewart of Redfern decided it was time to “slow down and decompress”, and leave their busy city lives working in the film industry. Like many Sydneysiders, it was time for a fresh start here on the Central Coast. If that wasn’t a big enough change for them, Cate and Tim decided they would open a pizza restaurant, despite both not having any hospitality experience.
Settling in Woy Woy they opened Tropicana Pizza Pizza in the heart of the suburb with Cate saying “it was a chance for us to dip our toes in the water… and the chance for us to get to know our new community”.
Cate explained they were fully aware of their capabilities, so they kept it simple - good pizza, craft beer and wine, a quaint space and a small team. For the next three years, Cate and Tim built numerous relationships within the Peninsula community. Tim was particularly invested and began running local events such as a Hot Sauce Festival and a Honey Festival.
Both Cate and Tim wholeheartedly expressed how grateful they were to the community who had fully embraced them. Cate commented “we are so grateful, we would be nowhere without our community.”
So in March 2021, after several months of renovations, the new Tropicana Social Club was indeed “rebirthed”. Their new venture was bigger and better at their new much larger space located at 61 Trafalgar Avenue, Woy Woy.
While the location is certainly off the beaten track, it is worth it to find. When you first arrive, you are welcomed by bright Instagram-worthy neon lights. Once inside, there is an incredibly colourful décor which will transport you back in time with a fantastic 1950’s vintage Hawaiian motif.
The menu is simple but will certainly please everyone. Starters/Snacks feature Pesto Pizza Fingers, a “Big Ball” Meatball and Buffalo Wings with a Classic Blue Cheese Dip, and of course an array of pizzas to choose from.
Guests who enjoy simple flavours are sure to enjoy the classic Tony Pepperoni or the Triple Cheese. Those with a bit more of an adventurous palate may wish to try the Roasted Fennel Pizza – caramelised balsamic fennel, and Italian pork sausage. Or, the Fisherman’s Wharf with local seafood, dill, and lemon.
The Vegetarians and Vegans are well looked after too with the Georgie Boy and the Vegan Supreme. Kids have their choice of a 7-Inch Pizza, with a side of crispy potato gems. If you happen to have any room left, there are their old neighbours’ Young Barons Tiramisu or Gelato to finish.
Cate and Tim want Tropicana Social Club to not simply be a place to eat and dash, but to become an “institution” for Woy Woy and its surroundings. A warm, inviting destination designed for everyone in mind, hence the name change to Tropicana Social Club.
If you think the duo are stopping here, not a chance. Plans are already in motion to add tempting Italian share plates to their menu, so watch this space.
In a world where everything seems to feel hectic, and uncertain, Tropicana Social Club is sure to be the go-to place to unwind and be transported a million miles away with your family and friends to enjoy.