In the heart of Kiama, a new venue called Uncle Fuku's is shaking up the local scene with an unconventional mix of karaoke, dining, and what it cheekily calls 'bad advice'. Located on Collins Lane, this hotspot has quickly captured the attention of residents and visitors alike, offering a fresh alternative to the area's typical offerings.
A Mirror of Misguidance and Fun-Filled Evenings
One of the standout features at Uncle Fuku's is the Mirror of Misguidance, a wall mirror in the back dining area that patrons have covered with humorous and often absurd pieces of advice. Messages range from 'sell feet pics' to 'always eat yellow snow' and 'txt them', creating a playful and interactive element that adds to the venue's unique charm. This creative touch reflects the owners' vision to make Kiama more fun and exciting.
From Miss Arda to Uncle Fuku's: A Vision Realised
The venue is the brainchild of Emily Lewisman and Lauren McWatters, who previously worked at Miss Arda. They spotted the former Farmer's Table location and saw an opportunity to transform it into something vibrant. McWatters explained, 'We wanted to turn it into something to make Kiama fun and exciting. We put this idea together, and she said, 'I can't do it without you'.' Their collaboration has resulted in a space that blends entertainment with social dining.
Since opening, Uncle Fuku's has become a hit, with karaoke rooms booked solid from 5 pm until closing time. McWatters noted, 'People are loving it, the karaoke rooms are booked out from 5 pm until we close. It's something new that Kiama needed... everyone wants to stay, and you've got to kick them out because it's just time to go. It's sad because I don't want to kick them out, and they don't want to leave.' The venue's popularity has prompted plans to extend its operating license for longer hours.
Filling a Gap in Kiama's Entertainment Scene
Uncle Fuku's aims to provide an experience that is both fun and exciting, as advertised on its Instagram page, which promotes it as the go-to place for 'drinks, food, karaoke and bad advice'. McWatters highlighted the lack of similar options in the area, stating, 'There's no karaoke unless you go to Wollongong. We don't have any of that, and people love karaoke, they have dinner, they have drinks, then they get in there and they love it.' This focus on karaoke sets it apart, offering a dedicated space for singing and socialising that was previously missing in Kiama.
The venue's success underscores a growing demand for diverse entertainment options in regional areas. By combining elements like karaoke with a quirky, advice-themed decor, Uncle Fuku's has created a destination that encourages community engagement and repeat visits. As it continues to evolve, this new hotspot is poised to become a staple in Kiama's social calendar, proving that innovation and local flavour can thrive outside major cities.
