AFTER 20 years of serving the community, establishing owners Pete and Trish Morrison are hanging up their aprons.
The pair’s iconic Java Spice restaurant in Swan Hill has been sold to new owners, Upinder Kalra and Munish Virdi.
Known for its unique architecture, popular menu and delicious food, the restaurant was established by Pete and Trish in 2004, drawing inspiration from their trips to Southeast Asia.
“We fell in love with the architecture and food of Southeast Asia,” Mr Morrison said.
“We lived in Java, Indonesia during 1998 but it wasn’t until 2004 we decided to build the restaurant.”
The couple imported two large buildings crafted from reclaimed teak wood from Java, Indonesia, which were then reassembled by Swan Hill builder Richie Merritt and his team.
The five Balinese huts that complement the restaurant were also imported from Java and positioned in the tropical garden designed by Mrs Morrison.
Since opening its doors in September 2005, the restaurant has served dishes prepared by the same international chefs, becoming a cherished dining favourite for locals and tourists alike.
After 20 years of dedication to the business, the pair decided it was time to pass it on.
“We thought it was time for someone younger and with more energy,” Mr Morrison said.
“We took our time to find the right people and our priority was to ensure the new owners shared the same passion and commitment we had.
“It was important the new owners would continue to care for our dedicated staff.”
The Morrisons began working with Mr Kalra while seeking day work for some of the Java Spice staff.
This collaboration sparked discussions about him purchasing Java Spice.
Mr Kalra invited his friend Virdi, a seasoned chef with years of experience in Swan Hill, to join him in partnership.
Virdi has also worked in venues such as the Federal Hotel and Swan Hill hospital.
He also spent time in Dubai working at a five-star restaurant before returning to Australia in 2018.
He is married to Ambika and has two children, Kyrah and Shivaay.
Mr Kalra is a familiar face to Swan Hill residents, especially those who frequent Cafe 202.
He is married to Deepika Bali, and they have a son, Kelvin.
According to the new owners, the heart and soul of Java Spice will not change.
“We plan to open an extra day per week, so will increase to six days,” Mr Kalra said.
“We want to bring fresh enthusiasm and keep the same great menu and service that the community knows and loves.”
Mrs Morrison said they will miss the customers and staff the most.
“Our customers have made work a pleasure, and our staff have made everything so easy,” she said.
“We are incredibly grateful for the loyal support.”
Though they are stepping away from the day-to-day operations, the Morrisons will continue to support Mr Kalra, and Virdi as needed.
“Java Spice will always be our baby, our legacy,” Mrs Morrison said.
“We want to watch it grow and be nurtured by the new owners.”
The Morrisons feel at peace knowing that Java Spice is in good hands with the business’ new owners.
“We wish them all the best on this new adventure,” Mr Morrison said.
