There are obviously many challenges facing Australia’s small bars at the moment, with skills shortages, accumulated debt and pandemic legacy all causing concern, but looking at the positives lockdowns are over, bars are open and people are going out.
And, as Charlie Lehmann told Bars and Clubs, “it’s good to be back”. He added: “We managed to retain all our staff so once we were good to open, we had an injection of energy back into both bars.
“Whilst we were restricted with numbers initially the vibe of the guests returning was one of giddy anticipation and joy to be able to have a drink in a bar again. It’s still a bit slow in the CBD during the week as many finance bros are still out to long lunch or are working from home but slowly but surely we are getting there.”
Getting there is the important thing, and while the team has been able to retain all its staff, Charlie did say they are not out of the woods yet.
“We are forever thankful to [our staff for] their commitment to us as they know we are firmly committed to them and their wellbeing. We managed to pick up a couple of new young members to our team on the back of that which has boosted our ranks.
“We certainly aren’t out of the woods though and as we get busier, like every other bar, we’ll be looking for more dedicated staff dedicated to our craft. Now more than ever is a great time to forge a career in hospitality.”
Charlie added that Governments can support the industry by listening, “not only to the big players, but also the independently owned and operated hospo venues that dot our fair cities from coast to coast.
”Without proper consultation with this sector of our industry we stand to lose vibrant venues and characters because government initiatives already favour the big players. Reaching agreements on permanent residency and working visas and making these easier for hospitality venues to attain will help in a big way.”
What’s also encouraging is that people are enjoying life back in bars, and largely doing it right.
“Our one rule at Rascal is ‘DON’T BE A DICK’ and you’ll be hard pressed to find anyone acting up down at any of our bars. It’s good being a bit hidden as it keeps the dickheads away most of the time.
“Dancing is most certainly back and encouraged. Down at Rascal we have live Blues every Wednesday, Mom and Pop rock on Thurday’s and the groovy kids from Simple But Delicious provide sexy sounds on Saturdays. Come one, Come all.”
Looking ahead at what will be the popular drinks for summer, Charlie told Bars and Clubs: “Seltzers are all the rage but I reckon everyone is excited to be back so anything that is cold and can be consumed with friends in a banging bar will do us. Look out for more small Sydney bars to bang out more takeaway options a’la Double Deuce.”
And in terms of what people can do now to help bars?
“Enjoy the bars you frequent and frequent a few more that you’d normally miss. Cash is king so go get it out at the ATM before you drop in.”
