Bonding with staff the key to sustainable F&B success

Darren Farr

The Lokal

136 Neil Road

GOOD food doesn't just bring people together, it can bring forth new businesses too.

Just ask Darren Farr. For it was over two casual weekend brunches that the Sydney-born chef first met Benjamin Lee and Louise Tong-Davies, whom he would eventually partner with to launch his first solo restaurant venture, The Lokal. Ms Tong-Davies is an accountant by training and organises supper club, Brunch & Co, while Mr Lee also owns three-year-old sandwich shop Sarnies.

Opened two weeks ago, the 55-seater The Lokal is already finding a fast following for its comfort food served in a cosy, cafe setting - a far cry from the large, landmark restaurants Mr Farr built his care…