The best restaurants and bars in Applecross
Situated only 15 minutes from the Perth CBD and Fremantle, Applecross is where great food meets dreamy riverside views.
While the suburb is known for its jacaranda-strewn streets and quaint village dotted with vibrant cafes and bustling boutiques, it’s the restaurants that have us drooling. We’ve put in the hard yards – tried and tested, we promise – and have complied a list of the very best restaurants around Applecross to add to your foodie bucket list:
Canteen Pizza
We were truly devastated when Cott’s Canteen Pizza closed back in March – how would we cope without their stellar porchetta panini and woodfired pizzas? Well, the pizza gods answered our prayers, with their long-awaited, brand-spankin’-new Applecross location finally opening their doors! Designed by slick Adelaide architects Studio-Gram, the new location marks a new era for Canteen as they not only continue their pizza legacy but expand into new offerings – including, excitingly, breakfast seven days a week! Breakfast pizzetta? Hoo-boy!
32 Ardross Street, Applecross
Hayashi
Hayashi has been hugely popular with Applecross locals for yonks – but we’ve had a recent resurgence of interest in the suburban eatery thanks to the arrival of Chef Tadashi Hashiguchi (or Chef Hashi, as he’s known)! Previously at Perth subterranean Japanese institution Jun (now closed but once home of Perth’s best karaage), we’re eager to get our hands on some new and old favourites.
2/15 Ogilvie Road, Applecross
The Quarter Acre Hotel
Whether it be lunch, dinner or somewhere in between, this neighbourhood pub offers a fresh take on classic pub fare. After opening in 2019, it’s become a local hotspot, touted the waterhole for all things drinking, dining and socialising. Worshiped by city slickers and country bumpkins alike, the contemporary corner pub is located on a quarter acre block, complete with a lush, plant-packed courtyard and beer garden filled with vibrant yellow umbrellas and a sandpit for the little ones. Their spiced cauliflower tacos, poke bowls and steak sandwiches are winners every night of the week, and the cocktails are sure to please!
767 Canning Highway, Applecross
Dining Akashi
With just 14 seats, this itty-bitty neighbourhood gem still manages to pack a punch! Dining Akashi specialises in all things tempura, but their monthly-changing menu (not to mention excellent omakase) features plenty of other thoughtfully prepared, non-tempura delights: think roasted miso alfonsino, or chicken and soy milk ramen.
901 Canning Highway, Applecross
Ohnamiya
Think tiny Japanese joint and charming homestyle dining. Ohnamiya, located on Kearns Crescent, is all about serving up fresh and affordable Japanese goodness. Expect sashimi, sushi rolls and curries, along with an array of set meals and donburis. Yum!
34 Kearns Crescent, Ardross
Himali Ghurka
Himali Ghurka has been in it for the long haul, bringing authentic Nepalese flavours to Perth since 1995. Their commitment shows, with the small Applecross restaurant packed on plenty of weeknights. When we hear the words “12 hour”, followed by “lamb”… we’re sold pretty much straight away, but the scent of the spices and meats grilling on an open flame would probably help convince you. Or, if you’re struggling with FOMO – grab a thali and get a taste of everything, and wash it all down with a cold Nepal Ice while you’re at it.
17 Kearns Crescent, Applecross
Nic & Kolo
Tucked away at the south end of the Applecross village, Nic & Kolo is a fully licensed award-winning café with an Asian fusion menu that pays homage to founders Ben and Nicole Kon-Yu’s Mauritian heritage. The name derives from the combination of wife Nicole’s first name and husband Ben’s childhood nickname. Locals Mata Design Studio are behind the chic interior, which oozes a fresh and spacious feel with a warm palette of soft oak timbers and grey finishes, bold blue accents, brass and marble detailing. Pop in for their all-day brunch menu, featuring crowd favourite dishes like the mac and cheese egg benedict, mushroom gnocchi and cinnamon scroll pancakes! Or if dinner is more your thing, try their famous sticky lamb ribs, tempura prawns or coconut lime barramundi.
45 Ardross Street, Applecross
The Raffles Hotel
Known for its sweeping riverside views, al fresco dining, art deco fit-out and the notorious half-price pizza Wednesdays, The Raffles is an Applecross icon that dates back to the 1800s. It’s seen it all, from the jazz age to rock and roll and has since undergone major refurbs – bringing new life to that 1896 build, while maintaining old-school charm. The menu features a blend of big and small plates, including pub classics, pizzas and premium cuts from the charcoal oven, infused with a modern Italian influence and fashioned with fresh, seasonal and sustainably sourced WA produce.
70-72 Canning Beach Road, Applecross
Il Ciao
For causal family dining that doesn’t skimp on flavour, you’re in the right place. From 1998, this family-style Italian trattoria has resided in the capable hands of the Perruzza family, who’ve been plating up the classics with their homemade pasta and traditional woodfired pizza ever since. If you’re down for a recommendation, the penne alla vodka and trofie il ciao are firm favourites… You’ll be rolling out the door like you’ve just been to nonna’s!
771A Canning Highway, Applecross
Bluewater Bistro
Perched on the elevated manicured grounds of Heathcote Cultural Centre, just metres from the Swan River, the Bluewater is one of Perth’s favourite waterside dining locations. It’s also known as the southern star of Perth’s Fraser’s Group of restaurant and function venues – including Fraser’s Restaurant and Botanical Cafe in Kings Park – established by Executive Chef Chris Taylor. The Grade 2 listed building provides uninterrupted views of the Perth city skyline, Swan River and South Perth Yacht Club. From lunch until late, bistro-style dining is on the menu, with the spotlight on fresh WA produce and local wines. Think oysters Kilpatrick, squid skewers and burrata, lamb rump or flank steak.
Note: Bluewater Bistro is temporarily closed for renovations and is due to reopen later in 2024.
58 Duncraig Road, Applecross
Chimek
Known for their oh, so crunchy fried chicken, Chimek’s enormous popularity began with four mates and a small stall at the Fremantle Markets and has since evolved into four restaurants across Perth! Their menu reflects a fusion of Korean and American flavours, enjoyed on their own or stuffed inside a burger. Run, don’t walk, and get your hands on their gochujang or the honey soy sesame.
755B Canning Highway, Applecross
Olive & Oscars
We’ll let you in on a little secret – you’re going to want to get you’re A into G and pop down to this one stop pasta and schnitzel shop! Choose from a range of pasta shapes and pick a sauce to pair, so you get exactly what you want. This neighbourhood joint has perfected the art of our two loves, so trust us when we say, you’ll want to order the Arrabbiata!
884 Canning Highway, Applecross
Hoodburger
Hoodburger has been capturing the hearts and minds of Perth since their low-key beginnings; popping up in laneways and at parties around Perth, then in the Tiger Bao test kitchen, in their current Old Shanghai outpost. We’ve talked about these guys heaps already, but with good reason – succulent smashburgers, dropping with nostalgic Americana. We can’t help but think of Scrooge McDuck when we see their heaving trays of fries – you almost want to dive right in.
31 Kearns Crescent, Ardross
7 Spices
After opening their doors in 2004, 7 Spices have made a name for themselves in Perth’s Indian food scene. Known for their earthy flavours, delicious aromas and exotic masala, you’ll be in curry and dhal heaven. Friday is buffet night, if you’re in the mood to indulge! But if the all you can eat scene isn’t your thing, they also have a regular dining menu. We recommend the chicken tikka or lamb korma and of course, the garlic buttered naan to soak up all that spicy goodness!
1/35 Ardross Street, Applecross
Gucce Pizzeria e Cucina Italiana
Known for their phenomenal wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta and a la carte menu infused with a delightful selection of carne, pesce and dolce, Gucce is all about authentic and traditional Italian cuisine. Owned and operated by the De Gennaro family, this long-time Applecross favourite will have you feeling like you’re on vacay in the Med! You won’t want to go past the blue cheese gnocchi, bolognese pappardelle or the polle e pesto pizza!
36 Ardross Street, Applecross
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The Rowing Pavilion
In 1962, Mount Pleasant’s iconic rowing sheds threw open their doors to host the city’s British Empire and Commonwealth Games, 60 years later, another significant chapter begun. The Pav, as it’s fondly branded by locals, is one of the newer dining venues to grace the leafy shores of Mount Pleasant – the expansive open-air terrace is the hero, coupled with striking contemporary designs, lofty ceilings and uninterrupted riverside views. When it comes to wine, the focus is on WA, while their native cocktail range takes inspiration from local flavours. Food wise, try the crispy tofu tacos, cauliflower popcorn and delicious range of pizzas.
4 The Esplanade, Mount Pleasant
Parley
Opening in 2021, Parley became a favourite of Mount Pleasant locals with a boutique wine list and decadent bar snacks – think house made chicken liver parfait served with sourdough and pickles, or Fremantle octopus alongside cannellini bean purée and a spicy nduja oil.
The Precinct, 893 Canning Highway, Mount Pleasant
Header image credit: Hoodburger