Wollongong is about to get a pay-what-you-want vegetarian eatery, that aims to also serve a greater good.
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Good Will Only will open at 64 Crown Street from June 3, run by the collective who own Dagwood, Howlin' Wolf plus Births and Deaths (trading under the Good Times Only banner).
"We've been so heavily supported by the community over last two years, it's time to be a little selfless and give back," group spokesman Scott Mileto said.
He said the restaurant would also have a big focus on connecting people in need of social services and connecting the community in a way that "breaks down barriers".
"The idea is to bring everyone from every walk of life, to have them sitting at the same table," he said.
"There's going to be a box at the door, there's no obligation ... as long as people at the table are chatting and interacting and breaking down those boundaries then we're very happy."
The site is being donated by the owner of Jimmy's Burger Bar before it gets refurbished into a new small bar later in the year.
While all staff will be volunteers, with many chefs from hatted restaurants to cafes around town putting up their hands to help.
Each night of opening, outreach support workers from the Homeless Hub and the IRT Foundation will be on hand to offer assistance with housing or other welfare services.
IRT Foundation manager Toby Dawson said the region was lucky to have a group hospitality experts to be provide good quality food and atmosphere, with an ongoing connection.
"They want it to be more meaningful than a business card," Mr Dawson said.
IRT is the only specialist service for older people at the risk of homelessness in the Illawarra, as people over the age of 65 are the fastest growing group of homeless people in the country, he said.
The idea is to bring everyone from every walk of life, to have them sitting at the same table.
- Scott Mileto
Anyone keen for a delicious meal is welcome at the restaurant, allowing the "community to come together and collaboratively support each other", said Homeless Hub manager Mandy Booker.
At its conclusion on June 30 the project will be evaluated, with hope another pop-up or more permanent venue can be established.
If you'd like to volunteer at the restaurant, email Scott: scott@goodtimesonly.com.au