Meet the Team: The Visionaries Behind The Valiant
At The Valiant, we pride ourselves on not just our exceptional drinks and unforgettable atmosphere but also on the incredible team that brings it all together. Get to know Simon, Elliot, and Florian, the masterminds who make The Valiant an extraordinary place.
Simon Kouba – The Visionary Owner
Simon Kouba, the visionary owner behind Flour Child in St Kilda, is embarking on an exciting new venture with The Valiant. With a proven track record of success in the hospitality industry, Simon brings his passion for creating unique and memorable experiences to this latest project. Known for his innovative approach and commitment to excellence, Simon is set to transform The Valiant into Melbourne’s premier hidden cocktail bar. His expertise and dedication ensure that every detail, from the ambiance to the menu, reflects the high standards and creativity that have become his hallmark.
Simon Kouba, our visionary owner, hails from France, and we’ve infused elements of his heritage throughout The Valiant’s menu to pay homage to his roots. Simon’s extensive travels through Europe and Dubai have also greatly inspired many aspects of The Valiant, including our elegant Ladies’ Night concept. These experiences have allowed him to blend diverse culinary influences and create a unique atmosphere that reflects his journey and passion for hospitality. From the sophistication of our cocktails to the decadent dishes, every detail is thoughtfully crafted to transport you to the vibrant locales that have shaped Simon’s vision for The Valiant.
Elliot Dew – The Dynamic Venue Manager
Elliot Dew, at 32 years old, is the dynamic venue manager of The Valiant, having navigated a rich and diverse career path in hospitality. His journey began post-university in 2010, initially diving into the culinary world in Christchurch, New Zealand, with a foundational course in cooking. This led to a pivotal two-week work placement at Cooking with Gas, a gastro pub with a fine dining edge, where Elliot quickly ascended to sous chef within 13 months. Seeking a broader culinary perspective, he transitioned to the Commodore Hotel in Christchurch, only to discover his true calling in bartending, a shift prompted by an unexpected staffing shortage at a friend’s bar.
Elliot’s adaptability and passion for hospitality took him from Christchurch to Brisbane and eventually to Melbourne, where he joined the Left Bank Melbourne team. His journey through various roles, from bartender to manager and then exploring further avenues as a barista and back in the kitchen, reflects a relentless pursuit of knowledge and experience. This path led him to Simon, who offered him a managerial position at Henry and the Fox, and later, the role of bar manager at Flour Child.
Now, as the venue manager of The Valiant, Elliot ensures the venue operates seamlessly, embodying perfection in every detail. He thrives in The Valiant’s sophisticated and vibrant environment, orchestrating a tight-knit team that moves in rhythm to create unforgettable experiences for customers. Elliot’s philosophy centers around providing the perfect setting for guests to enjoy their time to the fullest, making every visit to The Valiant a memorable one. With his extensive background and unwavering dedication, Elliot Dew is poised to lead The Valiant to new heights, solidifying its reputation as Melbourne’s premier hidden cocktail bar.
Florian – The Hospitality/mixology Guru
Florian’s hospitality journey began in 2016 at The Diplomatico, a luxurious brasserie in Lyon, France. Over two years, he advanced from bartender to assistant bar manager, cultivating a passion for cocktails and developing his skills in staff training and management. His career then took him to the bustling Brasserie de Monaco, where he honed his expertise in high-volume bar service during major events like the Monaco Grand Prix.
In late 2018, Florian returned to Lyon to manage Crazy Dog, a role that saw him create cocktails, manage stock, and open a speakeasy within the venue. His Australian adventure began in November 2019 at Melbourne’s Siglo bar, but the pandemic led him back to France, where he managed Le Lion Bistrot and later took on a managerial role at Les Fils à Maman, further expanding his culinary and operational expertise.
Eager to return to Melbourne, Florian rejoined Siglo as a bar manager, excelling in cocktail innovation and team leadership. Seeking new opportunities, he met Simon and Elliot at Flour Child, marking the start of an exciting new chapter. Now, with a wealth of international experience, Florian is poised to bring his unique flair and passion for hospitality to The Valiant.
Join Us at The Valiant
Our team is dedicated to making The Valiant a place where you can unwind, enjoy, and escape the everyday. Simon, Elliot, and Florian, along with the rest of our amazing staff, are here to ensure your time with us is nothing short of spectacular. Come meet the team and see for yourself why The Valiant is more than just a bar—it’s an experience.
Stay tuned for more stories and updates about our incredible team and what’s happening at The Valiant!
