Sala takes best award

Sala Wine Lounge was voted ahead of finalist and fellow Bunbury bar Lost Bills, Margaret River’s Morries and Dunsborough’s Little Brother to clinch the title of WA’s Best Regional Small Bar.

The three tiered process began with small bar licence holders voting for their peers, with the nominees then narrowed down by judges before being put to a public vote.

Owner and general manager Jason Casella said the venue aimed for an “inner city” style vibe.

“We are big believers that food and drinking go hand in hand – we wanted to do something that was a little bit different, something which had a bit of mood and a bit of character to it,” he said.

Mr Casella attributed the venues success to his team.

“What I would like to believe makes us successful is the fact I have the best people working with me who I trust immensely – without my bartenders, chefs and floor staff, none of this would be possible.”

“Awards like this come down to a combination of having a really good team behind you and having consistency in your product, service and what you offer,” he said.

Mr Casella said the small bar culture in Bunbury was growing, adding to its “cultural tapestry”.

“It gives people opportunity, it makes the night life more vibrant and gives people different options,” he said.

“That is what is exciting for us, because we get to be a part of that and provide that vibrancy which hopefully encourages people into Bunbury.

“More importantly, it encourages the people of Bunbury to come out and start supporting these venues.”

Mr Casella also congratulated Lost Bills on their nomination and said the real winner was Bunbury.

“They are great mates of ours and a good bunch of guys, so props to them as well,” he said.

“The real winner here is Bunbury because there are two quality establishments which have been recognised by this association.”