Famous for fish, chips and the “Wall of Dave’s,” iconic takeaway goes up for sale
DAVE’S TAKEAWAY
BUSINESS FEATURE
A true fixture on Macrossan Street, Dave’s Takeaway has long been a Port Douglas icon, famous for classic Aussie fish and chips, an established turn-key reputation, and its legendary “Wall of Dave's.” Now, the town’s favourite chip shop is officially up for grabs.
Current owners, affectionately known to locals as “Dave and Mrs Dave (Bel),” are stepping back to enjoy a well-earned early retirement, leaving behind a true community hub and a fully fitted commercial setup for whoever takes over the reins.
Occupying a prime spot on the busiest side of Macrossan Street, midway between Four Mile Beach and the marina, the venue catches a continuous stream of foot traffic.
Anyone who’s ever set foot inside or scanned the photos while waiting for an order knows Dave’s is far more than just a chip shop.
Collected over 14 years, almost 4,000 photos now cover the walls and spill onto the windows, making the venue a genuine tourist attraction that draws holidaymakers and families of past and present Daves back year after year.
“We get at least one or two Dave's a day on average, yesterday alone, we had five in line at once!” Bel laughs.
“We also get families coming back to visit photos of a Dave who has passed away. It means a lot to people, it’s much more than just pictures on a wall.”
Between the cheeky banter and old-fashioned hospitality, Dave and Bel have built a genuine gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, creating joy, delivering a memorable experience, and making sure everyone leaves with a laugh.
It’s a warm connection they’ve nurtured since trading city life in Adelaide for a tropical sea change nearly seven years ago, quickly embedding themselves into the fabric of Port Douglas.
“You don't realise it at first, but a business like this has a massive impact on the town,” Bel reflects.
From sponsoring the local footy club to hand-delivering bottled water to elderly residents during cyclones, they’ve poured their hearts into looking after the community.
“We also joke that we run the unofficial tourist information centre. People love the interaction and the cheeky banter when they come in on holiday.”
For incoming owners, the turnkey operation offers total freedom to adjust operating hours, tweak the menu, or expand on an already proven, profitable concept.
Dave and Bel reckon the shop is ideal for a family, a couple starting out, or anyone seeking a change of pace who brings a bit of personality and genuine chat.
“As long as you come in with an interest in community and personal customer service, the locals and tourists will support you all the way,” Bel says.
“It really is the ultimate lifestyle choice, you get to be your own boss and live in a paradise with no traffic lights, all while running a solid, profitable business that people love coming back to.”
To view the listing online, click here, or contact selling agent Steve Doble for details on 0411399344.
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