About the Business

The Missing Gorilla, located in the heart of Eltham, is a striking open-plan hospitality venue purpose-built for live music and entertainment. Designed by the current owners, the venue has established itself as a premier destination for headline acts, regularly drawing large crowds and enjoying an excellent reputation within the live music industry. When not hosting live performances, the venue operates successfully as a welcoming pub and dining destination-catering to families during the day and couples and groups in the evening seeking a quality night out.

The venue offers footpath trading for approximately 30 patrons along Commercial Place. Entry is via large double doors into an expansive open-plan dining space, with clear sight-lines through the venue directly to the raised stage-creating a strong connection between dining, drinking, and entertainment. To the right of the main entrance is a private function room with its own bar, ideal for events and private bookings. The open-plan kitchen features premium stainless-steel finishes and is anchored by a standout bright red wood-fired pizza oven as its centrepiece. Flowing from the kitchen is a large main bar, perfectly positioned to service diners, live-music patrons, and casual drinkers across the venue's multiple seating zones. Behind the bar sits a substantial cool room featuring an 18-tap glycol beer system. Beyond the stage, patrons access a large covered deck overlooking Eltham Main Street-an outstanding additional trading area that enhances the venue's appeal year-round. The venue is fitted with a state-of-the-art sound system, fully zoned to accommodate different trading styles simultaneously. Additional features include a dedicated kids' area, office space, extensive storage, multiple cool rooms, and staff facilities accessed via a separate internal entry.

The Missing Gorilla has an On Premises Licence until 1am with a capacity of 200 and no security restrictions. An application has been submitted to increase the capacity to 300. There are twelve years left on the lease made up of 2+5+5. Rent is $4250 a week including GST. There is an extensive asset register which includes all the kitchen equipment, the sound and light systems and security coverage.

The current owners have built a highly regarded and profitable business and are now pursuing other opportunities. The Missing Gorilla is ideally suited to an experienced hospitality operator, particularly one with an understanding of live music and event-driven venues. The business enjoys strong relationships with high-profile artists, an established brand, and continues to grow in strength. A full set of financials are available, along with a forward bookings schedule of live events, providing an incoming owner with immediate momentum.