Perth's Food Scene

Perth's dining scene has matured dramatically over the past decade. Once known primarily for seafood and pub grub, the city now has a diverse culinary landscape with award-winning fine dining, lively Asian eateries, excellent Italian, and a strong farm-to-table movement driven by WA's world-class produce. The Swan Valley and Margaret River wine regions provide an abundant supply of premium wines and fresh ingredients.

Fine Dining

Wildflower (Level 4, COMO The Treasury): Fine dining using native Australian ingredients and six seasonal menus. beautiful views over the Swan River.
C Restaurant (St Georges Terrace): Perth's only revolving restaurant, 360° views of the city and river. Modern Australian cuisine.
Post (Elizabeth Quay): Chef David Pynt's woodfire-focused restaurant in the historic former GPO building.
Santini (COMO The Treasury): Refined Italian with homemade pasta and a 1,500-label wine cellar.
Balthazar (The Westin, Hay Street): Modern European tasting menus with exceptional service.
Garum (Highgate): Seasonal modern European with a focus on fermentation and local produce, from chef Guy Grossi.

Italian

Lulu La Delizia (Subiaco): Award-winning small bar and restaurant. Famous for house-made pasta.
Ciao Italia (Fremantle): Authentic, family-run Italian since 1988 on the Cappuccino Strip.
Rustico Cantina (Northbridge): Rustic Southern Italian cuisine, great wine list.
Il Lido Italian Canteen (Cottesloe): Italian beachside dining opposite Cottesloe Beach.

Asian

Long Chim (State Buildings): David Thompson's celebrated Thai street food-inspired restaurant.
David's Master Pot (Northbridge): Famous for Sichuan hot pot and Chinese barbecue.
Le Vietnam (Northbridge): Authentic Vietnamese pho, banh mi, and rice paper rolls.
Boucla (Northbridge): Modern Greek/Mediterranean with excellent dips, grills, and share plates.
Taka's Kitchen (CBD): Budget Japanese, huge serving sizes, cash only. A local institution.

Seafood

Kailis Fish Market & Restaurant (Cottesloe / Fremantle): Fresh WA seafood, fish and chips, takeaway or dine-in.
Cyclops Fish Grill (Fremantle): Casual seafood with Mediterranean influences.
The Raw Kitchen (Fremantle): Paleo/wholefoods focused with excellent fresh fish options.
Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour: A precinct of multiple seafood restaurants with waterside dining (Cicerello's, Joe's Fish Shack, Gold Bar).

Modern Australian / Cafés

Mary Street Bakery (Highgate / Guildford / East Vic Park): Famous for fried chicken rolls, donuts, and excellent coffee.
Toastface Grillah (CBD): Gourmet toasted sandwiches in a retro setting.
La Veen Coffee & Kitchen (CBD): Specialty coffee and all-day breakfast in a heritage building.
Say Coffee (Subiaco / Northbridge): Hip Korean-run café with excellent brunch and baked goods.
The Little Pantry (Mount Lawley): Tiny neighbourhood café with a loyal following for its seasonal menu.

International & Street Food

Northbridge Food Courts: Affordable Chinese, Vietnamese, Malaysian, Japanese, and Korean. Prices from $10 — $15.
Elizabeth Quay Night Markets (summer): Global food vendors in a harbourfront setting.
Fremantle Markets: Food hall with diverse cuisines, artisan cheeses, and fresh produce.
Perth City Farm (East Perth): Farmers' market every Saturday morning with organic produce.

Bars & Pubs

Lucky Chan's Laundry & Noodle Bar (Fremantle): Karaoke, dumplings, and craft cocktails.
The Standard (Northbridge): Rooftop bar with great cocktails and city views.
The Aardvark Bar & Café (Fremantle): A Freo institution, intimate music venue.
Hadiqa (Elizabeth Quay): Middle Eastern rooftop bar with hookah and harbour views.
Bright Tank Brewing (East Perth): Craft brewery with taproom and outdoor seating.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Lunch specials at fine dining restaurants are often half the dinner price.
Northbridge food courts and William Street offer meals under $15.
BYO restaurants (bring your own wine) are common: look for "no corkage" or low corkage fees.
Sign up for First Table: get 50% off at top restaurants by booking the first seating.