One of Perth's most beloved cocktail bars is preparing to serve its final round this week, marking the end of a significant chapter in the city's hospitality scene.
An Emotional Farewell After 13 Years
Bar Lafayette, a cornerstone of the Brookfield Place precinct, will close permanently this Friday, 18 December 2025. The announcement was made by owner Brendon Sim, who shared an emotional yet candid message with patrons: "Thank you Perth, don't come again."
The venue first opened its doors in 2012, when Sim and three friends became founding tenants of the then-new Brookfield Place development. At the time, Sim worked in fashion, while two of his collaborators brought more extensive hospitality experience to the venture.
For over a decade, the stylish bar has been a fixture for city dwellers, known for its classy atmosphere, cultural vibe, and an impressive menu of award-winning cocktails. When asked why now was the right time to close, Sim suggested that all good things must eventually conclude.
"The time has come. We've decided to not renew our lease," he told PerthNow.
A Journey of Friendship, Family, and Fine Whiskey
The business underwent a change in 2018 when Brendon Sim became the sole director of Bar Lafayette. That same year, he launched a sister venue next door, W Churchill, which offers a refined take on traditional pub dining.
Sim credits his wife and business partner, Jessie Tan, as being a "massive part" of the bar's journey since he took full ownership. Reflecting on his fondest memories, Sim highlighted the simple, profound joys the business brought.
"The people, our guests that have become our friends, the beautiful drinks, our amazing team — every single one over the years, starting a business with my friends with zero experience. The laughs, the cries, more laughs, working with my wife," he said.
The closure news came as a shock to many regulars, but Sim said the initial disappointment quickly turned into an outpouring of appreciation for what the bar meant to the community.
"The messages, calls and visits that we have received have been overwhelming, to be honest. Truly humbling," he added, describing the sentiment as a "bitter sweet" ending, much like the bar's signature Manhattan or Negroni.
One Final Toast at the Lafayette Era Party
The venue's final night of operation will be this Friday, 18 December. To commemorate the occasion, Bar Lafayette will host a 'Lafayette Era Party', inviting its cherished regulars for one last celebration.
"Before the lights go down, we invite our beloved regulars to join us for one final toast, celebrating the stories and the people who made it special," reads a message on the bar's website. Patrons are asked to dress for "cocktail hour" for the event, which runs from 3pm until late.
While it's the end for Bar Lafayette, it's not a final goodbye from Sim and his team. He has invited all guests, both longstanding and new, to continue making memories at W Churchill from 7 January 2025. The neighbouring venue will carry forward the spirit of hospitality that defined its sister bar for over thirteen years in the heart of Perth.
