In Papua New Guinea, one of Port Moresby’s most iconic dining destinations has been given a new lease on life, with Crown Hotel officially relaunching Rapala Restaurant, offering an elevated culinary experience that combines premium international cuisine, stunning harbour views combining local flavours and world-class hospitality.
Located within Crown Hotel, Rapala Restaurant has reopened following an extensive redevelopment and menu transformation, bringing a fresh approach to fine dining while maintaining the restaurant’s longstanding reputation among local and international guests.
The relaunch forms part of Crown Hotel’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its facilities and enhancing guest experiences since local ownership assumed management responsibility in November 2018.
Leading the new culinary direction is Executive Chef Arup Das, who joined Crown Hotel in December 2025.
Chef Das brings more than 15 years of international hospitality experience, having worked with some of India's most respected hotel brands.
Having previously worked in PNG since 2022, Chef Das said the opportunity to lead Crown Hotel's culinary operations and revive Rapala Restaurant was one he eagerly embraces.
"Rapala was once one of the city's most recognised restaurants before COVID-19, and reopening it was a special assignment for me," Chef Das said.
"Together with the management team, we developed a completely new menu, new presentations and a new dining concept focused on fine dining standards while creating something unique for Port Moresby."
The restaurant officially reopened on 16 March 2026, introducing a carefully curated menu featuring premium ingredients, contemporary presentation and expertly matched wines.
A Heritage Property Continues to Develop
Crown Hotel holds a unique place in PNG’s hospitality history.
Originally developed during the years surrounding PNG’s Independence (1975) and commencing operations in 1978, the property has evolved through several identities over the decades, transitioning from Travelodge to Park Royal before becoming the Crown Hotel known today.
Now proudly operating as a 100% Papua New Guinean-owned hotel, Crown Hotel has undertaken continuous renovations and modernisation works over recent years, including upgrades to guest rooms, public spaces, furnishings and facilities.
Rapala restaurant represents one of the final major components of the hotel's ongoing transformation.
According to Chef Das, Rapala Restaurant was pending to reopen for some time because they wanted to make sure they had the right culinary leadership and vision.
"We wanted to bring back a restaurant that people remembered and loved, while introducing a fresh fine dining experience that meets modern expectations."
Dine at an Award-Winning Destination
The revitalisation of Rapala Restaurant comes as Crown Hotel continues to build on its growing reputation within the hospitality industry.
The hotel has received approximately 12 awards over the past seven years and has again been nominated for the prestigious World Travel Awards, recognising its commitment to service excellence and continuous improvement.
For guests seeking a memorable dining experience in Port Moresby, Rapala Restaurant, fine dining offers a compelling combination of premium cuisine, waterfront views, personalised service and contemporary elegance.
A Dining Experience Defined by Its View
While Port Moresby offers several well-known dining establishments, Crown Hotel believes Rapala Restaurant's location sets it apart.
Perched above the waterfront, the restaurant provides uninterrupted views across Fairfax Harbour and the sea beyond, creating a setting that few other venues in the city can replicate.
"The ambience and seaside view are among Rapala's greatest strengths," Chef Das said.
"It creates a completely different dining atmosphere. Guests come not only for the food but for the overall experience."
The waterfront backdrop has quickly become one of the restaurant's most celebrated features, particularly during sunset dining services and weekend evenings.
Premium Ingredients and Signature Dishes
Rapala restaurant's new identity is a menu built around premium imported meats, fresh seafood and innovative culinary techniques.
Guests can enjoy high-quality Australian-sourced Wagyu beef, premium seafood and carefully selected international ingredients, all prepared using contemporary cooking methods and elegant plating.
One of the restaurant's standout attractions is its Lobster Thermidor, which has already emerged as a customer favourite.
Prepared using large premium lobsters and presented with refined flair, the dish has become one of Rapala's signature offerings.
Other popular menu selections include
•Wagyu beef steaks
•Pan-seared scallops
•Beef carpaccio
•Seafood bisque
•French onion soup
•Premium salmon dishes
•Chicken breast served with fresh guacamole
A range of vegetarian and dietary-specific options
Chef Das said the menu balances familiar favourites with creative touches designed to surprise guests.
"We take classic dishes and present them in a different way," he explained.
"The names may be familiar, but the presentation, flavour combinations and dining experience are uniquely Rapala."
Wine Pairing Elevates the Experience
A key feature distinguishing Rapala restaurant from many traditional dining venues is its emphasis on curated wine pairings.
Throughout the menu, recommended wines accompany soups, starters, salads and main courses, allowing guests to enjoy a complete fine dining experience.
The pairing concept has been designed to complement flavours while introducing diners to combinations typically associated with premium international restaurants.
"We wanted guests to experience more than just a meal," said Chef Das.
"The wine pairings are carefully selected to enhance each dish and create a memorable dining journey."
Showcasing PNG Local Ingredients
While premium meats and specialty products are imported to ensure quality, Crown Hotel remains committed to incorporating PNG's rich agricultural produce into its menu.
Local ingredients play an important role in Rapala restaurant's culinary philosophy. These shows the restaurant is passionate about showcasing local produce.
Chef Das added, "In many dishes we use locally grown vegetables, herbs and ingredients, and we continue looking for ways to incorporate Papua New Guinea's unique flavours into our menu."
Some herbs are even grown on-site, while ingredients and vegetables such as sweet potatos, have been incorporated into selected dishes to provide a distinctive local touch.
The approach allows guests to enjoy international fine dining while still experiencing authentic Papua New Guinean flavours.
Investing in PNG
Crown Hotel's success continues to be built on its people.
The hotel employs more than 200 team members, with only nine expatriate staff members across all departments.
More than 95% of employees are Papua New Guinean nationals, reflecting the hotel's commitment to developing local hospitality talent.
Training remains a major focus, with international managers and chefs working closely with local staff to strengthen fine dining service standards, food preparation techniques and guest engagement.
Crown Hotel's goal is to deliver world-class hospitality while showcasing the warmth and professionalism that Papua New Guineans are known for.
The restaurant's reopening marks only the beginning of Crown Hotel's culinary evolution.
Management has committed to reviewing and refreshing menus regularly, ensuring guests continue to enjoy new dining experiences throughout the year.
Menus across the hotel's various outlets—including the café, room service, bars and restaurants—are updated periodically, with Rapala restaurant expected to introduce seasonal menu changes every few months.
With its blend of international culinary expertise, Papua New Guinean hospitality and one of the city's most scenic dining locations, Rapala restaurant is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers, business travellers and residents alike.
Whether enjoying a perfectly prepared Wagyu steak, indulging in the restaurant's signature Lobster Thermidor, or simply watching the sun set over Fairfax Harbour with a glass of wine in hand, Rapala offers a dining experience designed to linger long after the last course is served.
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