There’s something about Mimi’s: Why Sydney’s high-profile identities are going public with their new romances at Justin Hemmes’ luxe beachside eatery

Sydney’s high-profile identities appear to have found their romantic retreat at Mimi’s, the luxury beachside eatery owned by billionaire pub baron Justin Hemmes.

The exclusive venue at the Coogee Pavilion has become the favorite place for celebrities to debut their new relationships.

The establishment has also become known to Sydney paparazzi, who often wait outside the venue.

Hemmes himself has positioned Mimi’s as a romantic hotspot.

Justin Hemmes and Madeline Holtznagel

He debuted his relationship with model Madeline Holtznagel in November 2020.

The couple was spotted getting into Hemmes’ Rolls-Royce, parked just outside the restaurant.

Holtznagel, who was dining with her sister Simone, gently touched Hemmes on the back as they left the room.

Their public displays of affection set the tone for Mimi’s as the place for high-profile romances.

Michael Clarke and Arabella Sherbourne

Former Australian cricket captain Michael Clarke, 43, also recently confirmed his romance with property guru Arabella Sherbourne during a dinner at the venue.

The couple were spotted linking arms during a romantic lunch at Mimi’s on Friday, marking their first public outing together.

Clarke fueled speculation about their relationship by posting flirty comments on Sherbourne’s Instagram posts.

The couple looked comfortable and happy and they laughed and smiled together as they enjoyed their meal.

Christian Porter and Karen Espiner

Former Australian Attorney-General Christian Porter also made headlines with his new partner, elite criminal lawyer Karen Espiner, after he left Mimi.

The couple dined with friends before heading to Will’s Beachside Cocktail Bar, part of the Coogee Pavilion, in February 2022.

This was Porter’s first public appearance with Espiner since he announced his departure from politics.

Simone Holtznagel and Jono Castano

Model Simone Holtznagel and personal trainer Jono Castano went public with their relationship on Mimi’s in May 2022.

The couple were photographed sharing a passionate kiss on the balcony as they captured the moment with selfies.

They had trouble keeping their hands off each other. They huddled close together and talked, smiling lovingly at each other.

Their loving display cemented Mimi’s reputation as a romantic setting for Sydney’s elite.

Braith Anasta and Evie Tziomakis

NRL star Braith Anasta and mother-of-two Evie Tziomakis enjoyed a romantic evening at the Coogee Pavilion in December 2023.

The couple shared a kiss while having drinks and dinner with friends at the popular venue.

Evie and Braith looked into each other’s eyes as they talked, before ending it and leaving the room together.

Even reality TV stars are attracted to Mimi’s.

Married At First Sight’s Tayla Winter and Joshua White were spotted at the location having some fun times in the hope of catching the media’s attention.

The unlikely duo were photographed at the restaurant, where they put on a funny show.