Lunch Shack: The lunch bar going above and beyond in Margaret River’s industrial area

Forget pie warmer cheese sausages and chicko rolls, this low-key eatery is worth a detour.

Article and photos by Jono Outred

When it comes to breaky and lunch in Margaret River, options are aplenty. From bakeries that have grown into institutions, to bustling cafés and small, boutique coffee haunts, there’s plenty to consider.

But one relatively new addition you may not have tried is Lunch Shack, a small but always busy lunch bar in Margaret River’s industrial back streets. Flanked by a tyre shop and a mechanic workshop, with a steady flow of tradies in and out of its doors, Lunch Shack does far more then you might expect given its location.

Comfortably overdelivering from its tight quarters, owners Liz, Arlo and Miki rock quality baked goods, pastries and sandwiches along with coffee brewed with local beans, helping to fuel Margaret River’s bustling economy.

“Being located in the LIA definitely comes with a unique charm,” Miki explains. “Being hidden away from the Main Street means that most of our foot traffic comes from people who already know we’re here, or local businesses.”

“From truck drivers, tradies and cross-fitters, through to school kids and retirees; most days Lunch Shack feels like Margaret River’s watering hole, where all walks of life gather to refuel, and end up staying for a yarn.”

While having to-go is always an option, the venue’s front deck is a perfect spot to sit and enjoy food and coffee in house, pairing well with good old fashioned warm and friendly service from behind the counter.

A continental roll is simple but does all the right things while a homemade sausage roll is known around town as the ‘mini meatloaf’ due to its generous size. Cookies, slices, wraps and bagels are all prepared daily and available till sold out, while from the compact kitchen comes the likes of hamburgers, bacon and egg muffins and beef and gravy rolls made to order.

“Our mission at Lunch Shack is to contribute positively to the Margaret River Community, by supplying simple food done right,” Miki smiles.

“No overpriced fancy trends, just good quality ingredients, prepared into good tasting tucker. We live in such an amazing part of the world and are surrounded by an awesome community – there’s a good chance the Lunch Shack is where you’ll find them!”