History in future – Eat Drink West

Can’t go past the good-old classics

IT’S been twenty-four years since Charlie Graham first launched Bibo café and restaurant on Sturt Street.

Although he’s moved the business from the 200s block to the grand home-style two-story building that is 614 Sturt Street, Mr Graham has kept Bibo’s signature retro vibe, the same Grinders Coffee “with a kick,” homemade cakes, and loyal long-term clientele.

“I couldn’t recreate the whole retro scene of the old space, but there is old retro furniture and snippets in here of the past, so I’ve recreated the soul and personality,” he said.

“I’m still feeding the same crowd that were here as teenagers, they’re now just 20 years older.”

The Bibo team describe their regular customers as “friendly and interesting,” coming from a wide spectrum of backgrounds.

“They enjoy the living experience and the indoor-outdoor dining, now with the casual, relaxed front deck,” Mr Graham said.

Bibo is “always open,” and popular items on the menu have never changed since the 90s, like their Dog’s Breakfast; eggs any way, overnight tomatoes, mushrooms and crispy bacon.

“This was named after my dog, Daisy, who was also on the front of the menu. The same old classics are always shining though.

“People love that it’s got a quirky name, and I’m the only one in town that I know of doing overnight tomatoes,” he said.

“If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it.”

With the influence of passionate chef Ben O’Brien in the kitchen, the Bibo menu doesn’t just have the well-loved blasts from the past, but plenty of freshness, with a “good balance of flavour and texture.”

“Ben is a New Zealander, and is one of the top chefs I’ve ever had in 30 years, so he is fantastic to have here.”

In the era of increased counter-paying, the venue values the opportunity to offer table service, with a mellow, casual, homely feel.

“For what they’re paying, people deserve more than going up to the counter to order and pay,” Mr Graham said.

“All my six staff serving here are all multi-skilled, including Karen, who worked with me from the late 90s to the 2000s, and has come full circle, back to work with me.”

Mr Graham’s plans for 2021, mindful of social distancing and utilising his space to its best potential, is to set up another outdoor dining area in the restaurant’s back courtyard.

Customers, alongside their pets, are always welcome guests.

“I have a dog, we’re dog friendly, and people feel comfortable to bring them here. Not all venues will accept animals, but as long as they’re well behaved, they’re always welcome here,” Mr Graham said.