IT’S A SUNNY WEEKDAY in Bondi, and there’s a gentle hum of activity inside The Depot. The Turland brothers and Johnny Kelly weave through the scene, putting the finishing touches on the family meal they’re soon to share. It’s a low-key affair, but it’s been a long road to this chilled afternoon.
The Depot was founded 15 years ago up the road by chef Guy Turland and his mum Heather, with brother Clint joining later. When the cafe’s lease fell through in 2020, it transpired that one of Bondi’s best addresses was free – the old Jackie’s Café.
“We didn’t want to move from our original location,” says Guy. “But it’s the best thing that’s ever happened to us.”
Reborn in the colourful corner building, The Depot is now owned and operated by brothers Guy, Clint and Cade Turland and their cousin Johnny, all hospitality veterans. The four were hands-on with every aspect, from menu development to the décor.
Now, a few weeks into the second, post-lockdown opening, there’s a sense of optimism in The Depot, which Johnny credits to the dining industry’s new-found resilience. “You’re like ‘If I can survive this, let’s go… It’s time to back yourself.’”
In the spirit of the venue, this belated celebration is a group effort. Guy is behind the menu. Flowers by Johnny’s wife Tan Arlidge are in vases by Porch & Parlour’s Sam Smith (whose Porch Ceramics feature in the cafe). Textbook Boulangerie owner John
