At one point during construction of the PS40 bar, the builders just walked out and didn't come back. At the same time, the council was pushing back the opening date of the bar by deeming that the bar wasn't built for the capacity Michael was aiming for.
All these problems (to which Michael said it was looking like PS40 might not even open at one point) were much to the developing story behind the determination Michael has had to keep this passion going.
What do you do when you are trained in classical piano, teaching martial arts in the city, and have a passion for surfing?... Pursue a career in hospitality! Michael has done just that, and shown why following your dream, however hard it may be, has its rewards.
Having won 2016 Australian Bartender of the Year, received many accolades from Time Out including Best Cocktail Bar, and made it to 95 in the Words Top 50 Bars, it's no wonder why PS40 remains to be one of Australia's best loved secret hideaways in the heart of Sydney CBD.
Be sure to tune into a truly inspirational journey from pre-PS40 to now, as Michael Chiem lays it all out for you to hear.
Follow @roots_hospitality on Instagram for the latest updates, and soundbites from the latest guest.
Music by Charlie Fester.
I'd like to note that Roots Podcast is proudly supported by the Australian Good Food Guide.
A hospitality guide that started in 1977 and still continues to rate and support restaurants ever since.
