De Bernales on Hannan Street, Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
A beloved Kalgoorlie bar and restaurant is set to make a comeback in the city’s central business district next year. De Bernales, a staple in the local dining scene, will reopen under new ownership, bringing fresh energy with plans for a new beer garden.
Golden Hotels, the new proprietor, announced its acquisition of the Hannan Street establishment, which had closed after going into liquidation late last year. The company, which also owns the Tower and Albion hotels, has ambitious renovation plans and aims to reopen the venue by the end of January.
Reviving a Local Favorite
Michelle Roberts, the operating manager of Golden Hotels, shared insights with the Kalgoorlie Miner about the revival plans. “If the mass renovations planned all go smoothly, Debos will be reopened at the end of January,” she stated. Despite the changes, the name and concept of the popular eatery will largely remain the same.
“It will still be called Debos because we all agreed that it wouldn’t matter (if you changed the name), everybody is still going to say Debos,” Roberts explained. “We still want that same vibe, because that same vibe works. Debos is somewhere locals like going, it brings back memories for a lot of people.”
New Features and Offerings
The new iteration of De Bernales will introduce a beer garden and undercover eight-ball tables, adding a fresh dimension to the venue. The restaurant will offer meals throughout the day, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In keeping with tradition, the pub will transform into an entertainment space with a DJ and dance floor on Friday and Saturday nights.
A venue manager has already been appointed, and recruitment for additional staff will commence soon. The food style is still under development, promising to cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Golden Hotels’ Growing Portfolio
Golden Hotels is no stranger to the hospitality industry, with a portfolio that includes the Mt Henry and Swan View taverns in Perth, 300 Acres at the Wembley Golf Course, and the five-star restaurant Matilda Bay. The acquisition of De Bernales marks another strategic expansion for the company.
Roberts emphasized the importance of maintaining the venue’s local charm while introducing new elements to enhance the customer experience. “We want to respect the history and the memories that people have with Debos, while also offering something new and exciting,” she noted.
Looking Ahead
The reopening of De Bernales is eagerly anticipated by locals who have fond memories of the establishment. The announcement comes at a time when the hospitality industry is gradually recovering from the impacts of the pandemic, and the return of a community favorite is seen as a positive sign for the region.
As the reopening date approaches, Golden Hotels is committed to ensuring that De Bernales retains its place as a cherished fixture in Kalgoorlie’s social scene. With the promise of familiar vibes and new attractions, the venue is poised to once again become a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike.
