Celebrating three years in Perth, Choo Choo’s Mike De Vos on how they’ve got there

Mike de Vos headshot
We’ve written before of the strong bar scene in Perth — it’s one of our favourite places to drink. And one of the great little bars doing good things in Perth, Choo Choo’s, is celebrating its third birthday next Monday.

We spoke to owner Mike De Vos about reaching the three year mark, the changes in the Perth bar scene, and what’s next on the horizon.

You’re celebrating the third birthday of Choo Choo’s — how has the last year been different to the first year? What have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

Three years! Damn… It feels like yesterday we opened.

The last year was big for us. We’re blessed to have such great customers, staff and partners. Couldn’t ask for a better family. So many lessons Sam, it’s been such a learning curve but I would say the biggest lesson is, there is no shame in asking for help. I’m lucky to have some great people around me that I can rely on, learn from and get advice from be it staff, family or mentors. We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.

How is the Perth bar scene different now as opposed to three years ago?

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The Perth bar scene has seen an explosion of new venues be they small, large, dining or just boozing. It’s a really exciting time to be here. The press gets on a national level has really helped. Magazines like yours, and the Awards have shown Perth folk that we aren’t behind the times and in fact we have some venues who hold their own on the national stage.

How have you gone about finding and retaining bartenders at Choo Choo’s?

Again mate, very blessed. I only recently lost one of my OG staff but for the most part turnover here is very low. I’ve worked behind the stick and the 18 hour days and a little appreciation and recognition goes a long way. A bit of empathy and respect for the work the team does for me. It’s not rocket science, just treat people like humans! The core group has been together for well over two years and I’ve just taken on two amazing bartenders with a lot of experience to compliment our team. We are going from strength to strength.

What’s next for you? Any plans we can touch on?

I’ve spent a fair amount of time looking into the Asian market and I’m hoping we can get something going in South East Asia soon. A lot of opportunities are presenting themselves so it’s just a matter of finding the best fit for us as a company. Perth wise, I have my eye on a few opportunities that I think will go great in this market. You’ll know more when I do…

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