Fremantle’s standard bearer for luxe-nostalgic dining and wining to close in March
Sydney Morning Herald
by Max VeenhuyzenFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Nieuw Ruin, a beloved Fremantle eatery known for its luxurious yet nostalgic take on classic French and Eastern European cuisine, will close its doors after five years of operation. The decision to shut down comes as the lease on its historic cottage in the port city’s South Street runs out. While this marks the end of an era for the restaurant, which has become a cornerstone for food enthusiasts seeking old-school flavors like golden cauliflower pies and charcuterie, there’s hope for fans of head chef Blaze Young’s signature dishes. Plans are underway for a new venture in Perth’s CBD, promising to carry forward the legacy of Nieuw Ruin’s iconic recipes.
Since its 2021 opening, Nieuw Ruin quickly evolved from a neighborhood bar offering “weird wine” and snacks into a destination dining spot. Chef Blaze Young, who helmed the kitchen, gained widespread acclaim for her ability to revitalize forgotten or underappreciated dishes. The restaurant became a launchpad for young culinary talent, with alumni like Edward & Ida’s Cassie Garrett and London-based Pearl Gill-Hille passing through its kitchen. Its focus on classic, hearty flavors—inspired by everything from Russian layered salads to French chef Pierre Koffmann’s stuffed pork trotters—helped establish Nieuw Ruin as a must-visit for foodies.
In its final weeks, diners can expect a grand farewell with a special menu featuring some of Young’s most memorable dishes. These include the dry-aged dhufish “under a fur coat,” a nod to the Russian salad shuba; devilled livers, a dish influenced by her time at Billie H; and other fan favorites. The restaurant is also planning a closing party to celebrate its loyal customers and former staff members. While Nieuw Ruin’s run may be ending, its impact on Fremantle’s dining scene—and the careers of those who worked there—will leave a lasting legacy.
For food enthusiasts, the closure of Nieuw Ruin highlights the evolving nature of the culinary world, where nostalgia and tradition meet modern innovation. Its story is one of resilience and reinvention, reflecting broader trends in the global food industry. As diners bid farewell to this iconic spot, they can take solace in knowing that its unique charm and flavors will live on in new ventures.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/21/2026