An array of upscale choices plus terrific cheap ethnic spots make Perth's restaurant scene as sophisticated as Sydney's and Melbourne's -- which is to say, excellent. You'll find a great range in "restaurant city," Northbridge. Friday and Saturday nights tend to be very busy, so service can suffer. Midweek is less busy, quieter, and generally more pleasant.
Many outlets emphasize the use of fresh local produce. Western Australia is blessed with several climate zones plus pristine ocean waters so look out for seasonal berry, stone, citrus, and tropical fruit; lamb, beef, veal, and goat; seafood such as rock lobster, abalone, and prawns; freshwater crustaceans such as marron and yabbies; and superb fish including dhufish, snapper, red emperor, and cobbler.
For inexpensive pasta, a Turkish bread sandwich, or excellent coffee and cake, you can't beat Perth's homegrown DOME chain of cafes. Look for the dark green logo at Trinity Arcade between Hay Street Mall and St. Georges Terrace (tel. 08/9226 0210); 149 James St., Northbridge (tel. 08/9328 8094); 13 S. Terrace, Fremantle (tel. 08/9336 3040); 26 Rokeby Rd., Subiaco (tel. 08/9381 5664); in Rendezvous Observation City (tel. 08/9205 1665); and Henderson Street on Rottnest Island (tel. 08/9292 5026) -- to name just a few.
Western Australian law bans smoking in enclosed public spaces, including restaurants.
In Northbridge
The area is jampacked with cafes and restaurants, many reflecting the waves of migration that have made this part of Perth a staging point in their assimilation. Italian, Greek, Chinese, and Vietnamese have all lived here and now cook here.
Late-Nite Bites
Eating after midnight in Perth can be a problem. Fast Eddy's and Vulture's (tel. 08/9227 9087; corner William and Francis streets; open 'til midnight Sun-Thurs, until 3am Fri-Sat) are options; otherwise try Chung Wah Lane in Northbridge. It's more China-alley than Chinatown, with several Chinese restaurants, including Uncle Bill, tucked behind a red gilt Chinese gateway at 60 Roe St. (between William and Lake sts., behind the Bus Station). They all open daily between 5pm and 6pm, and close at 4am.
Cappuccino Strip
Don't leave Freo without a "short black" (that's an espresso) or a "flat white" (coffee with milk) at one of the many alfresco cafes along South Terrace. On weekends the street bursts at the seams with locals flocking to Italian-style eateries that serve good coffee and excellent focaccia, pasta, and pizza. DOME, Old Papa's, and Gino's are three to look for.
