A proposal has been unveiled for Northbridge’s first on-site microbrewery and micro-distillery, giving customers the unique opportunity to craft their own spirits and take them home.
Venue Details
The James, located at 233 James Street, will feature a large indoor space and a 413-square-metre rear courtyard and alfresco area suitable for events, functions, and food trucks. The total capacity is expected to reach around 800 patrons.
According to the application, the venue will focus on Western Australian food, beverages, live entertainment, and interactive distilling experiences, rather than operating as a traditional late-night nightclub.
Micro-Distillery Experience
The proposal includes Northbridge’s first on-premise micro-distillery, designed and installed by experienced local professionals. Patrons will be able to create their own gin or vodka under expert guidance and take home their custom-made spirits.
“The proposed premises seeks to enhance the range and quality of food and beverage offerings available within the James Street corridor and broader Northbridge precinct,” the application states.
Target Audience
The operators aim to cater to a broad range of customers, including local residents, office workers, tourists, and eventgoers, supporting Northbridge’s evolution as Perth’s premier entertainment and cultural precinct.
“The proposed premises will contribute to the ongoing development of the hospitality, liquor, and tourism sectors within Northbridge by offering a distinct, experience-driven venue that complements the character of James Street,” the application says.
Facilities and Entertainment
The venue will include a main bar and tasting hall featuring WA wines, craft beers, and spirits, a charcuterie deli counter, a commercial kitchen, function rooms, a retail bottle shop, and the micro-distillery experience area.
Entertainment will include live music, jazz performances, producer-led tastings, educational masterclasses, rotating art displays, and multicultural events. The application emphasises that the venue is not intended to operate as a high-risk nightclub.
“The venue is intended to contribute positively to the activation and vibrancy of the James Street corridor without operating as a generic or high-risk nightclub model, as it operated previously,” it states.
Location and Hours
The site is located in the heart of Northbridge’s entertainment district, close to public transport and existing hospitality venues. The application notes that the area is identified within the city’s planning framework as the State’s principal entertainment, cultural, and nightlife district.
If approved, trading hours will be up to midnight seven days a week, with the venue promoting a mix of food, beverages, and low- and zero-alcohol options. Security measures include CCTV cameras throughout the premises and compliance with liquor licensing requirements. The site is also near the Northbridge police station.
“The location is well serviced by public transport and pedestrian infrastructure and forms part of Perth’s primary entertainment and cultural precinct, where licensed hospitality uses are an established and anticipated component of the urban environment,” the application states.
Public comment on the proposed licence approval ends on June 25. The proposal has attracted support from several organisations, including Tourism WA, local politicians, and WA food and beverage producers.
