Perth’s best European-style bars and restaurants
If Instagram feeds flooded with Aperol Spritzes by the Colosseum and shots of ouzo on glittering Greek islands are anything to go by, it appears that every Aussie and their dog is in Europe this year.
However, whether you’ve recently returned or you’ve been enduring Perth winter all along, there are plenty of Perth bars that can give you a taste of the vibrant bar culture found in cities like Rome, Barcelona, London and Paris – check a few of our faves out below:
Spritz Spizzicheria
You’d be hard-pressed to find a Perth local who hasn’t dined at Spritz. A true Perth institution, the beloved Italian restaurant is a must for those longing for an authentic aperitivo enjoyed alfresco after returning from a sunny sojourn in Italy. And while the Aperol spritz is undoubtedly the main event here, do stay for more than a drink and indulge in one of Spritz’s hearty hand-made pastas or delicious woodfired pizzas.
148 Scarborough Beach Road, Mount Hawthorn
Wines of While
If stellar natural wines and delicious European-style eats are your flavour, look no further than Wines of While. Small but mighty, this William Street wine bar has rightfully earned a high reputation with its perfectly crunchy sourdough, diverse range of organic wines and welcoming feel. Be sure to snap up a table streetside and bask in the sunshine and yumminess at Wines. If Wines is too busy or you’re just looking to expand your horizons, Vincent Wine across the road is an absolute must-visit as well.
458 William Street, Perth
Mummucc
Brought to you by the owners of Monsterella (Perth’s favourite place to get a real Italian pizza), Mummucc is sure to impress with its contemporary Italian fare, sophisticated interiors and impressive wine list. Offering both alfresco and cosy indoor dining, the intimate wine bar makes for a great date night spot.
46/56 Grantham Street, Wembley
Besk
A haven for food, wine and beer connoisseurs alike, Besk is a bar, kitchen and bottle shop that would easily slot into the thriving bar scenes of cities like Barcelona, Prague and London. Offering local and international tipples alongside seasonal bar eats in an industrial-chic setting, it’s not hard to see why this West Leederville watering hole remains a favourite among locals.
264/270 Railway Parade, West Leederville
La Lune
Longing for steak frites and a glass of French wine? Fremantle’s French-style café, bar and restaurant, La Lune is your Parisienne bistro south of the river. Expect a wine list showcasing both Australian and French drops as well as a French-inspired menu and chic, Instagrammable décor.
73 George Street, East Fremantle
Madalenas
Laid back yet polished, this South Fremantle ‘boteco’ draws inspiration from the vibrant bar culture of Portugal, Brazil and Spain. Perched beachside, Madalenas will whisk you away from Perth winter with its warm, timber-toned interiors, seasonal seafood dishes and considered selection of bevvies, including, of course, a spritz or two.
406 South Terrace, South Fremantle
La Madonna Nera
When it comes to choosing a bar for Italian-style aperitivo, Perth’s northern suburbs have plenty of great options, including La Madonna Nera. Situated on Scarborough Beach Road, the Mount Hawthorn wine bar is a favourite among Italo-Australians for good reason; they pour good Italian wines and serve good Italian food with a focus on seasonality. What’s not to love?
1/155 Scarborough Beach Road, Mount Hawthorn
Vinotto
Another Perth bar that delivers on good wine and good food in a big way is Swanbourne’s Vinotto.
Since opening last year, the neighbourhood wine bar has earned rave reviews for its top-notch drops
and ever-changing menu of Mediterranean-style small plates.
Lot 2/137 Claremont Crescent, Swanbourne
Le Rebelle
It’s an intimate French bistro, full of timber and dark leather decor, with an old-world feel that’s straight out of the back-streets of Paris. Le Rebelle describe themselves as a ‘neighbourhood haunt’, this little restaurant and wine bar is exactly as advertised, a spot to escape the everyday and get a taste of the luxuries of French living. Settle in for a night of fun, unique wines, and delicacies like steak tartare and escargot – or if you’re a bit less adventurous, their cured kingfish or ricotta gnocchetti are tasty options too. (Caitlin Scott)
676 Beaufort Street, Mount Lawley