Our History
Chapels on Whatley was born in 2005 from Glenn Bartel and Kieth Archer’s love of a century old building they purchased in Maylands, a suburb not too far from the Perth city centre in Western Australia. The building was left to decay over a number of years before they discovered it and saw the potential in its old form.
The building was a labour of love in all the restoration, Glenn and his partner Kieth worked consistently over four years to bring it back to its former glory. The building, was originally built as a haberdashery, and over 100 years has housed many businesses, from the local grocery, clothing boutique, second hand furniture store to name a few. Finally being used as the funeral parlour “Chapels” as one of Perth’s more well-known establishments being the first to introduce pre-paid funeral services.
The building now still has its original flooring, walls and wooden ceilings as well as original 100 year old stair case. It was first built in 1902, is heritage listed and protected and seen to be one of Perth’s iconic and well known establishments. The century old building with its ornate facade set the tone for our background and heritage in Asia where businesses are operated on the ground floor and families live upstairs.
This being all things old from the East “Chapels on Whatley” was born – the name from the former use of the building and the concept was part of our love of Eastern culture.
Chapels’ vast collection of decorative pieces is imported and hand-chosen from all over China, Tibet, Mongolia, Japan, Cambodia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, India, and Malaysia. They will give an exotic look to any setting. All our items are hand-selected by the Chapels team and sourced from various visits throughout Asia; we take pride in this fact.
The response to Chapels has been nothing short of fantastic. Our unique retail concept has garnered significant interest, leading to numerous editorials and references in various publications.
The establishment delivers an ambience focusing on service, knowledge of our food, retail tea and coffee, and a place of “calm” that offers a relaxing dining experience.
We welcome you to share in our love of Southeast Asia’s exotic and rich culture.
“We love the way you can blend each item with modern design and the history and symbolism gives any interior a soul and brings many beliefs and wishes with it. These items are a fantastic centre piece or signature item for any room.”
Gift Card
Got a friend who’s always craving a good meal? Give the gift of great taste and unforgettable memories with Chapels on Whatley gift card today!
Perfect venue for your
special occasion
Our cozy and intimate restaurant is the ideal setting for your private function. Whether it’s a birthday party, anniversary celebration, or corporate event, we offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that will make your guests feel right at home.
With our attentive staff and personalised service, we’ll work closely with you to create a memorable experience tailored to your needs.
Our High Teas
Transport yourself back to the days of old, during British colonisation, high tea in the French quarter of Shanghai in the 1920s-30’s or Singapore High Tea at the Raffles hotel.
Even in the grand hotels of India or in the port of Melaka in Malaysia all have a culture steeped in British history ever evolving and manifesting into the Eurasian heritage we see today.