This news item featured in the June issue of Australian Bartender
It’s an encouraging sign when any operator can open one bar in any state or suburb, let alone two. However Perth entrepreneur Tony Tricarico (Malt Supper Club and Duchess) is on the verge of a small empire with his third venue, Lost Society, set to have just launched.
“Perth has been an extremely supportive market,” said Tricarico when interviewed by Bartender. “[It] welcomes new bars into the once dwindling bar scene [which] has always been dominated by large pubs and nightclubs.” Tricarico’s aim was to introduce a number of niche boutique bars into premium locations, and each of his venues brings something different to the Perth scene. When quizzed about how each one comes to fruition, Tricarico was clear on the process: “I have a vision and then create and design the concepts for each venue individually to suit their locations and space.”
“These venues provide quality service, lush surrounds, premium beverages and small food to complement, all aiming to fill the gap in the Perth market,” Tricarico explained. “Malt Supper Club is a perfect example. It opened in November 2010 and is an opulent, plush, 25s and over, late night bar with a strict dress code. It boasts an extensive range of whiskeys and premium beverages, a supper menu, bottle service and private rooms.”
Tricarico’s latest venture will bring a twist of fashion, entertainment and nightlife as well as premium spirits, wines and cocktails. Lost Society will also be showcasing live entertainment and food (including supper). “Lost Society will also be offering small food and premium beverages until 2am,” Tricarico explained, “and it will target the corporate and professional market.”
The full on challenge of operating multiple venues is not something that Tricarico seems to shy away from; indeed he seems to thrive on the demands it makes and possibilities that it offers. So how does he manage his growing empire from day to day? “I created the Nightgold Hospitality Group [and they’re] responsible for managing administration, accounts, events, human resourcing and interior design and consultancy – being a sole director and overseeing all aspects of each venue separately and keeping on top of trends is very demanding.”
Tricarico also told Bartender that he is currently in negotiations to franchise Malt Supper Club to a Singapore syndicate.