What’s happening in Perth food news this week
Hungry for what’s happening in Perth’s food and hospitality scene?
Here’s a deliciously snackable selection of the latest in Perth food news:
Ciao, Dandy!
If you ask us, summers are for spritzing – and we know we’re not alone on that front! One of our favourite spots at Karrinyup, Dandelion is transforming for the summer into Ciao Dandy from December 6: think coastal Italian la dolce vita vibes, and a positively effervescent selection of spritzes. Elise Godwin, Parker Group’s resident distiller and drinks maven, has crafted a stunning spritz lineup, alongside a selection of cocktails in homage to the Mediterranean coast (including some tempting no and low alc options!).
On the menu, Parker Group’s Head of Culinary Brendan Pratt and Dandelion’s Head Chef Matthew Payne have kept the vibes going, with a snackable Italian-inspired selection of seafood and share plates, as well as handmade pasta if you’re looking for some carb therapy, post-retail therapy!
Boozy açai? Say less!
Scarb’s Peach Pit definitely know how to have a good time – whether they’re creating behemoth burgers or summer-ready fishbowls and cocktail slushies… But when everyone is obsessed with açai, you’ve got to give the people what they want! Available throughout summer, the Peach Pit will be serving up Perth’s first boozy açai (and all your favourite toppings) – as well as a non-boozy option if that’s more your speed.
Get Fancy with Hank at Pirate Life
We’re no stranger to a Fancy Hank sauce or two at home – and now we can dive into even more of the fiery goodness with the arrival of Fancy Hank’s BBQ boards to Pirate Life Perth for a limited time only. Loaded up with crispy pork tacos with charred pineapple salsa, boneless fried chicken with habanero and carrot hot sauce, smoked chilli and cheese kranskies, corn ribs with Fancy Hank’s BBQ seasoning and, of course, hand-cut chips with chicken salt – a feast for 2-3 for $55! Plus, you’ll need a coupla drinks to wash it down – and you can get three schooners for $30, with your choice of Pirate Life Pale Ale, Hazy XPA or their latest Watermelon Sour.
Miss Chow’s returns to Claremont
The Miss Chow’s empire just keeps expanding – and not only are they heading south to Margaret River, but they’ve returned to where it all began! The Bayview Terrace spot previously home to Lygon Lane has transformed this month into Miss Chow’s Petit, just around the corner from the former Claremont Quarter location.
“Lygon Lane was fun, and we learned a lot, but we realised – by listening to our customers – that what this special Claremont location really wanted, and needed, was Miss Chow’s,” said restaurateur Jacquie Chan.
“Claremont has a pretty special place in my heart […] It’s where I took that first leap with Miss Chow’s and, well, I couldn’t have known then where that would take me. It’s been a ride and it shows no sign of slowing down.”
Have your say with one of WA’s favourite brewers
Got a lot of beer-related opinions? Your time has come! Shelter Brewing has put the call out for their Big Beer Survey – and they want to hear from you about how you drink, what you drink and how you travel. It takes less than five minutes to complete, and as well as helping to shape the offerings of one of the state’s favourite independent brewers, you’ll also go in the running to win a stunning Busselton weekend for two valued at over $4,000 – including three nights accom at the Hilton Busselton, a stunning helicopter tour over Cape Naturaliste, a $500 hospitality voucher for Shelter plus a brewery tour and heaps more! Find out more and complete the survey at the Shelter website.
Celebrate all things deliciously Italian!
Didn’t make it to Euro summer this year? You can still get a taste of la dolce vita with a spectacular week of Italian cuisine thanks to the Italian Consulate of Perth. Running from November 18-24, the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World is a global initiative that showcases old and new Italian culinary traditions – and here in Perth, the program will feature cooking superstars, some of the city’s most celebrated Italian eateries, and some mind-bendingly good culinary collaborations. Some of these collabs include Guy Grossi’s Garum with West Australian Opera and Cono Gelato with Crumbs Patisserie, while you can visit venues like Perugino, Acqua e Sale, Testun, Cherubino City Cellar, Burrata Bar, La Mortazza, Pizzeria Da Leo, Romulus Enoteco (and more) to experience some one-off dining events and specials. Find out more here.
Beaujolais? Oui oui, merci!
Speaking of Euro summer… Hop over to France for the annual Beaujolais Festival! And by France, we obviously mean the leafy, lovely corner of East Freo home to La Lune. Their final Regional Wine Dinner of the year will coincide with the Beaujolais Festival, which takes place in the heart of the Beaujolais region every year. La Lune will be celebrating all things Beaujolais on November 21 with a lively wine tasting from 4-6PM, followed by a three-course dinner of contemporary French classics designed to match perfectly with the characteristics of each accompanying glass. Book here!
Wine N’ Dine your way through the city with the return of this progressive long lunch
You know what’s better than one long lunch? Seven long lunches in one! Saturday, December 14 will see seven venues across Perth and Northbridge come together for the return of Wine N’ Dine – along with seven of WA and SA’s most intriguing wineries. Spots to snack and sip include Varnish on King, TOMA, Shadow Wine Bar, No Mafia, Edward & Ida’s, The Standard and Willi’s Pizza Bar, with wineries including La Kooki, Mon Tout, Ferbor, Paul Nelson, LS Merchants, South by South West and Orbis. Find out more here.
Dahl Daddy’s takes over Mane
Pop up palace, mecca of all things delicious drinking: Mane’s Saturday pop ups are always worth checking out… But this is one we’re extra excited for! Saturday, November 23 will see Margs fave Dahl Daddy’s head north for a special edition Pilsner & Paratha Pop Up! Launching Eagle Bay Brewing Co’s new release West Coast Pilsner, Dahl Daddy’s will be on hand from noon with some perfectly matched pilsner snacks: freshly made parathas loaded with deliciousness like dhufish, pickled zucchini, fried eggs, turmeric pickle and more.
Plus, Fervor is in the big smoke!
Now’s your chance to get a taste of the legendary bites of Fervor’s far-reaching pop ups – without having to leave the big smoke. Celebrating indigenous ingredients and working in partnership with Traditional Owners, Fervor will be settling into the Besk basement on November 21 for a five course degustation, paired with wines presented by Guy Lyons from Forest Hill. A truly special experience – book here!
Australia’s first yokocho-inspired experience comes to the CBD
The lunchtime queues winding down the laneway attests to the quality of Hifumiya’s cult-favourite udon, and we’ve long extolled the virtues of their night-time izakaya Jigoro. Both eateries are from Tsukomo Group, who are expanding next door with Ginza Nana Laneway for an Australian first: a labyrinth of laneways that replicate the yokochos of Tokyo, packed with itty-bitty eateries serving up tasty Japanese street food… Think sizzling yakitori, crispy katsu, comforting oden and ramen and even a retro café! Opening on Sunday (November 10), we reckon this is one for stretchy pants and a robust appetite.
Magic Apple officially opens in Cott (finally!)
“This is a restaurant built on wellness.” Sun-drenched and ready for summer, Magic Apple Wholefoods opened on Cott Beach the other week – read our full write-up here.
Wild baked goods have arrived in Inglewood
Wild Bakery’s South Freo outpost has long-established itself as one of Perth’s best spots for fermenty, funky baked goods (and delightfully ginormous slices of pizza) – so we were rather pleased when they expanded to a second store in North Freo. But little did we know, there would be more to come! They’ve just opened a third outpost, and this time they’ve made the journey all the way up to Inglewood, to a shiny new bakery at 856 Beaufort Street.
La-la-la-la-Lola Underground!
South west gastronomes and cocktail-lovers will need no introduction to Dunsborough’s Lady Lola: the free-wheelin’ home of delectable drinks, small plates and big vibes. Well, city slickers needn’t travel quite so far with the arrival of Lola Underground. Taking over the space formerly home to Pooles Temple, Michelle Forbes and Nell Antonic will be bringing their southern hospitality to the State Buildings’ subterranean venue – including a stunning array of Euro-inspired small plates, thoughtfully curated wines from near and afar, and their signature “stirred, not shaken” menu of cocktails.
Varnish on King welcomes new head chef Jerry Schoemaker
Now in their 11th year, King Street’s resident whiskey den is saying hello to a whole new era with the arrival of Jerry Schoemaker, a chef with 20 years of experience in Melbourne, Spain and the Netherlands.
“I love making food that’s meant to be shared,” explained Schoemaker. “For me, eating is an experience best enjoyed with friends and family. I focus on creating dishes that are good-tasting, clean, and simple—because great food brings people together.”
Fittingly, Varnish on King’s new menu channels the rock-and-roll spirit of the venue through the lens of familial warmth and sharp technical skill – think Portuguese-spiced chicken inspired by Schoemaker’s opa, classic steak tartare, potato pave with crème fraiche and caviar, or succulent Margaret River wagyu rump.
It’s a burger bonanza!
We daren’t tally up the number of mentions the word “burger” gets in this column… But alas, the heart wants what the heart wants! If you’re in the same burger-loving boat, you’re in luck: Milky Lane are opening an outpost in Bunbury! Since opening their flagship Elizabeth Quay location in 2022, they’ve expanded with more locations in Curtin and Currambine – and their new 700sqm Bunbury location will be their biggest yet. Opening on November 15, Milky Lane Bunbury is located at 11 Bonnefoi Boulevard.
Miss Chow’s is coming to Margs!
WA’s stunning South West has always been one of the world’s great eating and drinking destinations – but lately, it’s been going from strength to strength! The latest addition is the unmistakable Miss Chow’s, who will be taking up residence at the picturesque Edwards Estate in Cowaramup. Opening in November, you should expect the same vibrant flavours and atmosphere of Miss Chow’s Perth dining rooms in a spectacular regional setting – rolling green vineyards and wide blue skies paired with dishes like Margaret River venison tartare and soy-cured egg yolk, crispy dumplings filled with Amelia Park lamb or sang choy bao made with smoked Wagin duck.
“We saw an opportunity to offer something a little different,” said Miss Chow’s restauranteur Jacquie Chan.
“Modern Asian food with a relaxed feel. Margaret River has amazing dining options, but we believe the blend of approachable Asian dishes with great local wines and a beautiful vineyard setting brings something new to the mix.”
“It’s a stunning place with a strong food and wine culture that we’ve wanted to be part of for a long while. Partnering with Edwards makes this project even more meaningful, and we feel it’s the ideal location to bring this concept to life.”
Off Licence takes up residence at BWB
Every time we think Beaconsfield Wine Bar might ease up, they launch another unmissable pop up that we have to get around! This time around, the stellar Off Licence will be taking up residence for the summer – offering a weekly changing dinner menu of chef Drew Dawson’s favourite dishes every Thursday-Sunday, starting on November 14. Clear your calendars and head down there!
Wards stays up late
We’re big fans around these parts of a cheeky brunch at Wards – and we’ve been waiting with bated breath for the time that they can finally start a dinner service. Well, the wait is over! Launching last weekend, they’ve kicked off a series of Friday night dinners, offering a delish (and oft-changing!) menu of Euro-ish plates: think warm bread with French butter and saucisson, stracciatella with charred cherry tomatoes, “London” roast chicken, skirt steak with peppercorn sauce (don’t miss out on a serve of those amazing chips to go with!) or a old-school burger. Don’t forget about their rather tempting wine list, too…
Welcome to The Bridge House: a new era for a North Freo icon
Anyone interested in Perth’s eating and drinking over the past 20 years will be all-too-familiar with the charming little house at 1 Harvest Road, North Fremantle. The restaurant has transformed into The Bridge House – renovated, revived and ready for a new era under new ownership. Read our full write-up here!
Staples Bagels opens in South Freo
South Terrace just keeps getting more and more delicious! Following the arrival of Two Stacks to a cute-as-a-button row of shipping containers in South Freo, neighbouring Staples Bagels has also opened – bringing some insanely good bagels, excellent coffee and even some decadent cookies to the strip. After a cheeky visit last week, we’ll be returning to tick off the whole menu ASAP!
Warabi-mochi has arrived in Vic Park
Have your feeds been covered in this ooey-gooey goodness? Japanese dessert brand Kamakura (there are over 50 outlets in Japan!) has made its way to Vic Park, and people have been going bananas for their traditional sweets. Unlike the classic glutinous mochi, warabi-mochi is made with bracken starch and has gooey, soft and jelly-like texture which is then coated in roasted soybean flour or matcha and drizzled in homemade syrup.
Highgate newcomer Preston’s Deli has opened!
We were awaiting the arrival of Preston’s with bated breath – and the Bulwer Street deli has not disappointed. Check out our full write-up here!
Burrata, baby!
Who doesn’t love a creamy ball of burrata?! From the same folks as North Perth Italian deli and cafe La Mortazza, Burrata Bar has become a favourite food truck at Perth’s markets this year – but they’ve just settled into a new Northbridge space. Located at 70 Aberdeen Street, Northbridge, the hole-in-the-wall café’s menu features their signature plump burrata in your choice of bowl, between fluffy focaccia or atop a decadent serving of gnocchi.
Smash some stacks
We don’t mind a cheeky burger or two around these parts – and Two Stacks are smashing some of the best burgs in town! They opened a brand new South Freo location recently, serving up the juicy, smashed deliciousness we’ve gotten to know and love at their OG Sunshine Harvester Works location.
One of Australia’s best baristas just opened a coffee shop in the middle of Perth’s CBD
Ready for some caffeination? March yourself straight into March Coffee Studio – and read our full write-up here while you’re at it!
Ah Um officially opens, hidden out the back of Astral Weeks
Audiophiles and gastronomers, united at last! Astral Weeks’ intimate restaurant Ah Um has officially opened – read our full write up here!
Welcome a new era for Willi’s
CBD wine bar Willi’s has transformed into a Detroit-style pizza joint! You can read all about it here.
Gypsy Tapas enters a new era
After 20 years slinging Spanish snacks, Gypsy Tapas has entered a new era, with a newly expanded venue and a new name: Gypsy Fremantle. Following a six-month overhaul, Gypsy has transformed from an intimate 80-seat venue into a 300-guest restaurant with bustling alfresco courtyard – plus a new kitchen and bar. This means way more on offer for drinking – including 12 taps of local and craft beers, plus a new menu that updates some old favourites. And of course, there’ll still be live music from local musicians every night – a longstanding tradition that isn’t going anywhere!
Everyday Bread finally opens their new store
We’ve been waiting with bated breath for the arrival of Everyday Bread’s brand new store – and it’s finally here! Opening with full hours (7-7) since the start of October, they’re baking even more of their bread with a cult following, along with an expanded range of other treats. Check out our full write-up from back when we first announced the store here!
Show some love for Bar Love
“Cold Drinks, Warm Service, Hot Bartenders”… There’s plenty to like at Bar Love! The hotly anticipated venue is bringing some kitsch, retro fun to that sweet Brisbane Street pocket of Northbridge. They’ve officially opened their doors – you can read our full write up over here!
Pizza party? Now that’s paradiso!
Everyone’s favourite party paradise is bringing the delicious and the disco to Wednesday nights with the arrival of Paradiso Pizza Club! Dive into the Si Paradiso courtyard every Wednesday from 5PM for $15 pizzas (all of ’em!), $12 negronis, $10 Aperol spritzes, $8 wines and $6 lagers. Midweek bargains and a boogie? We can hardly believe our luck!
Head North this Sunday
Have you been to Wednesday and Friday night dinners at Doubleview bowlo yet? The View has become the hottest culinary ticket in town (with crowds to match) thanks to the culinary talents of the team at Special Delivery – and they’re taking it to a whole new level with a new Sunday offering from chef Bac Pham’s impressive pop up North54. Stop by for Pham’s signature new-wave take on Vietnamese flavours that harness his years spent working in French and Italian kitchens – think bo kho vol au vents, stuffed chicken wings drizzled with nuoc nam caramel, the cleverly-named “Fillet XO Fish” burger with beer battered fish and mustard green tartare, or a coconut pandan tres leche served with White Rabbit gelato! Clear your calendars: this is one worth lining up for.
Little Creatures is opening at Elizabeth Quay!
Big news for city-slickin’ beer lovers: Little Creatures is opening a huge new venue in Elizabeth Quay. Read our full write up here.
FOUND finds itself two new locations
FOUND. emerged in 2022 with a bang – announcing their role in one of the most-talked about projects of the last few years, an ambitious brewery at East Perth’s Girls School redevelopment that aimed to bring the regional experience to the inner city. After that ambitious project was put on hold indefinitely, they set up shop at their leafy Byford brewpub – and now, they’re expanding even further with a new pop-up in Maylands that opened earlier in the month, and a brewpub coming soon to Subi.
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Open Friday, Saturday, and Sundays from 12 noon to late, FOUND. FRIENDS in Maylands will showcase not only the brewery’s own bevvies, but a range of curated cocktails, wines and spirits plus some of the crew’s favourite beers from around Australia and New Zealand. (Like what you’ve drunk? Grab a 950mL squeeler or 1.89L growler of FOUND’s brews to take home!)
The Subi brewpub have taken over the former Golden West site on Hay Street, giving the venue and its 15-hectolitre brewery an upgrade before opening later in the year.
Header Image: Dandelion
Got some food news we need to know about? We’d love to hear about it – drop us a line at food@perthisok.com!