South Perth’s The Station is now open, from the same team as The Beaufort and The Old Synagogue

A brand new multi-venue hospitality project has officially opened in South Perth today, transforming a heritage-listed, Federation-era police station from 1908 into a bustling modern pub and polished restaurant.

The Station is the latest project from hospitality group NOKTURNL, helmed by South Perth locals Ross Drennan and Drew Flanagan – the team behind Fremantle’s The Old Synagogue and Highgate’s The Beaufort.

Located at the corner of Labouchere Road and Mends Street, The Station’s ground level is home to a relaxed neighbourhood pub, complete with sun-drenched alfresco perfect for whiling away warm afternoons with a couple of cold ones – and, starting next year, tucking into their daily breakfast offerings!

Following in the footsteps of their existing venues, The Station contains more than meets the eye… As you venture within, you’ll find sophisticated subterranean eatery Ludo at its heart.

The restaurant is named after head chef Ludovic “Ludo” Mulot, who began his journey with NOKTURNL in 2020, following 10 years at both Rockpool Bar & Grill Sydney and its Perth outpost. Prior to this, the chef’s career saw him journey from the Loire to Paris, and a stint at Alain Senderens’ three-Michelin starred Lucas Carton.

“We’re very hands on as operators,” explained Drennan.

“And we’ve had a lot of fun with Ludo since he came to us at The Old Synagogue. We love working with him and this restaurant (Ludo) is a nod to him and recognition of his talents. We always knew Ludo’s real passion was for French cooking and this is going to be his culinary legacy. This is his job for life.”

With a foundation in classical French technique, Ludo will explore flavours from around the world – and, of course, a focus on WA produce. Think beef fillet tartare with quail yolk, delicate eclairs filled with Western Rock lobster, tarragon, celery and caviar, or Wagin duck sausage with speck and sautéed red cabbage, or an open beef bourguignon pie.

Upstairs, the menu echoes the French influence of Ludo with a more casual lilt – plus the addition of a burger and sando selection, pizzas and plenty of shareable snacks.

“What are the key elements of The Station?” ponders Drennan.

“An elevated bar experience; an historic building in an inner-urban setting; a leafy al fresco area; and modern interiors all coming together to create a unique experience.”

“That all teams with a wine list we’re really excited by, a great selection of fresh tap beers and Ludo’s exceptional food across two distinct menus: slightly more formal downstairs and more accessible and familiar across the balance of the space.”

2024 is set to be a big year for NOKTURNL, with the opening of highly anticipated Yagan Square venue Stories following the hospitality operator’s successful tender for a whopping 30-year lease in the CBD precinct.

The Station is located at 1 Mends Street, South Perth.