David “Xander” Stucken is the kind of bartender whose name carries weight.
He’s spent over a decade shaping Perth’s bar scene from the inside—picking up awards, building cult-status cocktail programs, and mentoring the next generation along the way. At Terrarium, the CBD bar he co-owns with partner Verity Coles, that experience comes through in every detail.
But when he’s not pouring something complex behind the bar, you’ll find him winding down in much simpler ways—think beach hangs, ramen bowls, and doughnut runs with his son.
You’ve worked in some of Perth’s top venues and now run one of its best bars—what does a perfect day off look like for you in WA?
A perfect day off is pretty simple for me. I’m a bit of an introvert outside of work, so I love recharging with quality time. A sleep-in, some sunshine at the beach or park with my family, maybe a doughnut run (or two), a good whisky, and a binge session on whatever series I’m currently hooked on. Low-key, indulgent, and exactly what I need to reset.
When you’re not behind the bar at Terrarium, where do you go to unwind?
A massage table—literally. I studied remedial massage before cocktails took over my life, so it’s my version of returning to centre. And Alfred’s Pizzeria is my happy place. Great vibe, great people, and the kind of place that just feels like home.
Where’s your go-to spot for a low-key lunch with friends or family?
I’m a sucker for a long lunch at Long Chim or Churchill. Both spots are fantastic, and more than anything, I love visiting mates who are on the other side of the bar or pass. It’s nice to share a meal, connect, and enjoy what they do best.
Any favourite family-friendly spots you frequent with your son?
With my schedule, we often keep things pretty chill at home, but one standout moment was taking my son to Long Chim for lunch back in December. He contact-napped on my arm while I tried to eat extra hot Chiang Mai Larp with the other. It was a wild balancing act… silently melting my face while he slept peacefully.
What’s your favourite dinner spot when you’re off-duty and craving something great?
If I’m solo, it’s a Parmy at Churchill. If it’s with the wife, I want to get back to Balthazar. If it’s late, a bowl of ramen somewhere.
Who’s doing a cocktail list you admire right now?
Bar Love always has something fun listed. Bar Demo in Sydney is an absolute cracker too. Also itching to go see what the team at Bar Selecta in Melbourne are putting down. Apparently there’s a recurring name theme in my current favourites.
Bar Love
Any WA distilleries, winemakers, or brewers you think more people should know about?
Damaged Goods, without question. With so many distilleries emerging across WA, it’s rare for one to genuinely grab my attention. Tim and Pia are doing something special—repurposing fruit waste to create spirits that are not only sustainable and full of character, but also priced in a way that makes sense for venues. It’s smart, it’s considered, and it’s delicious. Easily my favourite local producer at the moment.
Where’s your favourite coffee in Perth?
Howard’s Groove is my go-to. Outside of that, Leeway is becoming a Saturday go-to. Offshoot if I find myself drifting east.
Favourite breakfast spot?
Panda & Co is a favourite. Their menu’s creative, the energy is always good, and it feels like a bit of a hidden gem. I don’t get to breakfast often. I’m more of a nocturnal house kind of creature, but when I do, this is where I go.
Best bakery in WA for a pastry fix?
Don’t make me choose. Chu Bakery is a regular visit when I have interstate visitors, if time permits. Miller & Baker slaps. I also live north, so the nostalgia factor of Puffin Donuts makes me happy.
Any late-night eats you swear by after a big night or long shift?
I find myself lurking at Uncle Billy’s a lot. Not to mention the team at the adjoining Fu Lu Shou are absolute legends.
Is there a venue or chef in WA that you think deserves more attention?
Fu Lu Shou. Alex and Ryan are underrated hospo legends.
A favourite spot outside Perth?
Pinjarra Bakery. Dwellingup Pub.
If you had to create a cocktail that captured the spirit of WA, what would be in it?
Damaged Goods. Desert Lime. Sandalwood Nut Orgeat. A crisp Five.
Keep reading: Mathew Powell on Rottnest living, Perth picks and WA getaways.