Prudence and Byron chat to us about why they stepping away from hospitality

As we close out the year, this isn’t the news we hoped to be sharing, but as they say, all good things must come to an end,  and for two of Newcastle’s most loved small bars, that time has arrived.

Just last week, Prudence Farquhar shared the news that she and her business and life partner, Byron Marzinotto, have made the decision to close both of their venues - Blue Kahunas and Bar Mellow.

Prudence & Byron launching Blue Kahunas in 2018

Whilst the decision to close is bittersweet, and will come as a shock to many of their loyal customers, Prudence and Byron feel the time is right, and they’re ready to move on from the late nights and intensity of running venues until 2am.

When we spoke to Prudence, she reflected warmly on their time in hospitality, saying,

“We’ve both learned a huge amount from running small businesses, particularly when it comes to understanding how to work with Council and State Government processes, including navigating challenges like the lockout laws.”

“We still have a real love for the industry, and it’s been so rewarding, even with all the challenges, but the time has come to move on, and we’re ready for the next chapter of our lives.”

Prudence & Byron launching Bar Mellow in 2021

Prudence’s move away from hospitality began earlier this year, and with a baby on the way, a better work-life balance was a key priority for them both.

Why they’re closing the venues

While it was time for a new direction, Prudence also acknowledged that ongoing challenges played a significant role in the decision.

“Newcastle has really inconsistent trade patterns. Some weeks are busy, others are quiet, and forecasting based on last year’s data can’t be relied on, as it varies so much.

“Staffing was another ongoing challenge. Experienced bar managers and senior bar staff are in short supply locally. This means hiring and training from the ground up, which can be rewarding, but also really resource-intensive.”

“We are, however, really proud of the strong team we built, and reaching a point where we could rely on senior staff to keep the venues running without either of us needing to be present every day.”

Prudence also spoke about the challenges of running a business in the Newcastle Mall, 

“The impact of the construction work that is about to get underway right opposite Blue Kahunas, which has no clear end date in sight, has also been a major contributor to our decision to close the business alongside an increase in anti-social behaviour in the area.

“We did consider selling both venues, however with leases coming up for renewal we decided the best option was to close and move on.”

And close they will, with Bar Mellow set to pour its final drinks this Saturday, December 20. Blue Kahunas will have a longer send-off, remaining open until Sunday,  January 25.

So be sure to get in for one final Mai Tai, and say goodbye to the Bar Mellow and Blue Kahunas teams!