’Not another uptight Sydney bar’: Secret to country and western bar Jolene’s success and their plan to go west
Popular CBD country and western bar Jolene’s has plans to take their southern hospitality to western Sydney.
Confidential
Don't miss out on the headlines from Confidential. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Popular CBD country and western bar Jolene’s has plans to take their southern hospitality to western Sydney.
Just one year after opening, the basement bar on York Street has become a city hotspot.
On Friday and Saturday nights, thanks to it’s roster of live country and western music, the venue is at capacity at 9pm and there is often a line snaking down York Street to get in.
The success of the venue has led owners, husband and wife team Lucille and Simon Rose-Hopkins, to start plans to open another venue.
“We always knew that Jolene’s Sydney wouldn’t be the only Jolene’s, it’s why we put ‘Sydney’ after the name,” Rose-Hopkins said.
“When Lucille and I talked about opening the bar we knew it would be a success, we knew we were not the only country music fans looking for a great night out.
“We have plans to possibly expand to Western Sydney and North Queensland, where Lucille is from,” he said.
There is no doubt country and western music is having a rival in Australia. Two country music artists currently sit in the Top 10 Aria singles chart, and American singer Luke Combs’ recent tour to Sydney saw him play two shows, with tickets sold out within minutes of their release.
Rose-Hopkins says the success of the bar is down to his team.
“Ninety per cent of our current team were patrons before they were staff. They came to the bar and had a great time and wanted to be a part of it,” he said.
“I think that’s a huge factor, if your staff love being at work, it shows to the guests.
“We really didn’t want to be another uptight Sydney bar.
“We try and bring the “country hospitality” to everything we do. It’s Approachable drinks, food and service. We want you to have the best night out!”
More Coverage
Read related topics:Kitchen Confidential
Join the conversation
Dally M red carpet gallery: NRL and NRLW stars, partners shine
The NRL and NRLW’s biggest stars are walking the red, um green, carpet for the 2024 Dally M Awards. Check out their looks.
Read more
Where to find Sydney’s best bread and butter combo
A new Sydney eatery is offering a first of its kind bread and butter service to kick off meals and its luxe flavours will blow your tastebuds. See what they are.
Read more