Restaurants and Bars

Food gurus and wine buffs can tantalize their taste buds in Perth and be sure of an unforgettable experience. Surrounded by vineyards, orchards and market gardens, the city has delicious produce at its doorstep. Add to that the location—on the edge of the Indian Ocean and straddling the sparkling Swan River—the city offers a supply of succulent seafood as well as superb waterside venues. Then there is the dynamic cultural diversity and vivacious ambience. Dining and drinking in and around the city will not leave you disappointed.

In the City If you are staying in the city centre there is a long list of eateries within walking distance. Head down to Barrack Street Jetty to dine outdoors at Moorings Cafe, or enjoy river views from Shun Fung on the River.

In the heart of the city, Hay Street and Murray Street Malls are dotted with food favourites, particularly for lunchtime diners. If you are in a hurry grab a delicious croissant. For those who like to indulge in a pancake, take a detour down Carillon Arcade, or if you are in the mood for sushi Jaws Kaiten Sushi should not be missed. Another heartland favorite is the Empire Cafe. For more up-market locations, Joe's Oriental Diner serves a choice selection of Southeast Asian cuisine, or meander through some fusion fare at Globe's Wine Bar and Restaurant.

Strolling along Murray Street you will find the stylish Cockatoo Island Cafe open until mid-evening most nights. For juice fanatics chasing a shot of wheat-grass, there is Java Juice. Next door to His Majesty's Theatre, the delightful CBD is the perfect spot for a pre- or post-theatre meal.

Northbridge The other direction to head from the mall area is over the railway tracks to Northbridge, a bubbly hive of activity popular with hip suits and in-the-know locals. This area is pumping with trendy clubs, pubs, and cafes. Vultures is a great spot for kerbside viewing, and the brasserie balcony at the Brass Monkey is another place with a streetscape view. For an upbeat contemporary edge head to the Universal Bar, where the partying goes on until the early hours of the morning.

Fremantle For the best coffee in the state, try Fremantle. The main thoroughfare is known as the "Cappuccino Strip". It is an outdoor haven, that promises a relaxing yet stimulating cafe experience. Both Gino's and Old Papas's are an institution, with delicious Italian dishes and mouth watering cakes. Just a few minutes from the strip you will stumble across an absolute gem for food, beer and music—Clancy's.

While exploring the sights stop for Tea at the Round House or treat yourself to ice cream at the fishing boat harbour. The harbour offers a challenge when deciding what to eat. You cannot go wrong choosing a fish and chip venue, as they all serve fresh fish and offer fast service. Other choices include, the exquisite Chunagon for Japanese cuisine, the Sicilian for a casual ambience and impressive menu, and Sails, with spectacular views across the Indian Ocean.

The Swan River The Swan River offers a superb scenic backdrop for a number of venues. E Shed market at Victoria Quay has a food hall with entertainment on the weekends. For those with a passion for Sunday brunch The Red Herring has a wonderful location. While the nearby Left Bank is a favorite haunt for members of the Freo Dockers, (a national Australian Football League club), and is generally a very popular watering hole.

Beyond the City Sitting at the edge of the ocean, alongside the river, in quaint suburbs and picturesque hills, there are many delightful venues worth seeking out. Indulge in a sunset view from the decks of the Blue Duck or take afternoon tea at the fabulous Indiana Tea House overlooking Cottesloe Beach. Enjoy a twilight stroll along Scarborough Beach before an evening meal at Savannahs. Spend a day at Hillarys Boat Harbour and stop for lunch at Jetty's Restaurant.

For exclusive service, excellent food and an exquisite setting, book a table at Meads in Mosman. If you prefer something a little more casual on the water, try JoJo's. South Perth is a haven for delightful restaurants like Plantation Estate and Holy Guacamole. For spectacular city views and stylish dining visit Frasers Restaurant at Kings Park. Whether it be vegetarian or a wood fired pizza, Mt Lawley has a lot to offer for the gastronome. Subiaco also has a fantastic selection of high quality eateries like the award winning Witches Cauldron Cafe.

The Swan Valley The Swan Valley's tourist drive offers a selection of vineyards and attractions along the way. Pop in for lunch at Lamonts, then finish the day at Isadora's in Guildford, or grab a scrumptious burger on the way back to the city. Head to the hills for lunch at Araluen, or enjoy the live music and family atmosphere at the Mundaring Weir Hotel.

Special Tastes For something a little different, look for marron (freshwater crayfish), kangaroo, and emu, all of which appear on menus throughout the city. For wine connoisseurs, there is an excellent choice of vineyards--watch for wines from the Margaret River region, Baldivis and the Swan Valley. If you prefer a nice cold beer, Western Australia has two favorite brews, Redback and Matilda Bay, plus a number of boutique breweries such as Inchant Brewery and Duckstein Brewery. Also worth a visit is the Sail and Anchor in Fremantle--you can tour the in-house brewery and taste a refreshing chilled beer.