Perth—the capital of Western Australia—might not be as famous as its Australian counterparts i.e. Melbourne and Sydney but is definitely still a lovely city worth visiting. With its flourishing dining scene and laid-back beaches, we reckon the world’s sunniest capital city is a perfect holiday destination. In fact, Perth is only a 5.5-hour direct flight away from Singapore!

From the must-see attractions, restaurant recommendations, popular nightlife spots to getting around, here is our comprehensive guide to Perth and everything else you should know.

WHAT TO SEE AND WHAT TO DO IN PERTH

Admittedly, Perth’s city life is nowhere as vibrant as its neighbouring global cities; but that doesn’t warrant it an awful online 2015 title of being the worst destinations on earth. Perth is home to several historical monuments and an exciting wine region called the Swan Valley—and there is so much to see and do at these attractions.

PERTH’S ICONIC BLUE BOATHOUSE

By now, you must have come across endless stunning shots of Perth’s iconic Blue Boathouse on your Instagram feed. It is believed that the historic Crawley Boat Shed was constructed in the 1930s and restored to its splendour in early 2000s. This photogenic boathouse is a must-visit for all photography enthusiasts.

COTTESLOE BEACH – THE MOST POPULAR BEACH IN PERTH

There are countless beaches in Perth for one to get his/her tan on (just keep in mind that summer season brings with it the constant buzz of houseflies) – one of the better suntanning spots would be the inviting Cottesloe Beach.

DAY TRIP TO FREMANTLE 

Fremantle can be easily reached in half an hour via car. Immerse yourself in history at the Fremantle Prison, a maximum-security-jail-turned-tourist-attraction or check out the weekend-only Fremantle Market which is known for hawking a wide array of indigenous and indie products, local organic produce and natural good.

Read our guide on day trip to Fremantle in Perth.

KING’S PARK

Attracting over six million visitors annually is King’s Park, one of the world’s largest inner city parks. The scenic park spans across 400.6 hectares and contains the The State War Memorial. Take a leisure stroll, have a picnic under the iconic 750-year-old tree and/or pay your respects on the dawn of ANZAC Day.

SWAN VALLEY

There is really no reason why visitors should miss out on the gorgeous Swan Valley, especially when it can be reached within a short 30-minute car journey from Perth’s CBD. Boasting animal farms, beautiful vineyards, chocolate factories, honey farms and more—you are guaranteed to have a fun-filled day exploring these places!

Read our guide on 12 reasons why you must visit Swan Valley in Perth.

MARGARET RIVER

Known for its popular craft breweries, award-winning restaurants, world-class wineries and beautiful beaches, Margaret River—a 3-hour drive from Perth—is a must-visit.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the famous White Elephant Cafe which comes with a stunning view of the Gnarabup beach in Prevelly. You can easily spend a day exploring the numerous wineries in the region. Some of our favourite wineries include Vasse Felix Winery, Voyager Estate and Wills Domain.

We will suggest to allocate at least 2 nights in Margaret River.

WHERE TO EAT IN PERTH

CHICHO GELATO

ChiCho Gelato is no ordinary ice-cream parlour. Made fresh from scratch daily, the sweet ice-cold treats are free from artificial colourings, flavours and preservatives – hence ensuring patrons only the highest quality possible. Anticipate a plethora of unique flavours such as Lavender & Honeycomb and Pandan & Roast Peanut Brittle.

180 William St, Northbridge WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 423 480 520
Sun to Wed: 12pm – 10pm
Thu to Sat: 12pm – 11pm

CHU BAKERY

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth. Strategically located opposite Hyde Park, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day.

The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair. What you must try is its signature Chu Puff—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant.

498 William St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 893 284 740
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm

CIAO ITALIA

No reservations are allowed at Ciao Italia but that is clearly not stopping eager crowds from forming every operating night. The Italian trattoria serves awesome seafood pasta and calamari rings in ginormous portions. Complete your meal with a divine tiramisu had us nearly licking the plate clean.

273 Mill Point Rd, South Perth WA 6151, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9368 5500
Sun and Mon: Closed
Tue to Sat: 5pm – 10pm

DUOTONE

DuoTone serves a pretty wicked cuppa and we will certainly return everyday for our caffeine fix if we were based in Perth. Coffee aside, the new cafe also serves excellent breakfast Asian-inspired gourmet brekkie.

Read our guide on 17 best cafes and coffee shops in Perth.

313 Hay St, East Perth WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9325 9396
Mon to Fri: 6am – 3pm
Sat and Sun: Closed

HYLIN

Hylin is hands-down our favourite cafe in Perth.

It may be a bit off the grid, but this neighbourhood cafe in West Leederville is totally worth travelling for. Its modern architecture and decor make the cafe a very cosy space to retreat to for breakfast. And we really liked the tables by the windows; perfect for a relaxing brunch session in Summer.

178 Railway Parade, West Leederville WA 6007, Australia
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 3pm
Tel: +61 401 815 804

KAILIS FISH MARKET CAFE

Overseeing the boat harbour, award-winning Kaili’s Fish Market Cafe has been a well-loved destination amongst locals and tourists alike since 1928 for its tasty fish and chips and other fresh value-for-money seafood delights.

46 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9335 7755
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8.30pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 9pm

TOOK BAE KEE 2

Located along Barrack Street in Perth’s CBD, Took Bae Kee 2 is our go-to Korean restaurant for affordable and good Korean food in Perth. Some of the dishes that you can try include Sizzling Hot & Spicy BBQ Pork (A$7), Sizzling Sweet & Spicy BBQ Squid Tubes (A$9) and Hot & Spicy Soy Bean Soup (A$8).

127 Barrack St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 451 774 260
Thu to Tue: 11.30am – 8pm

TYPIKA ARTISAN ROASTERS

Do not leave cafe-cum-roastery Typika Artisan Roasters until you have savoured their insanely delicious Golden French Toast served with Maple Candied Bacon and Sliced Bananas drenched in Salted Caramel Sauce.

331 Stirling Hwy, Claremont WA 6010, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9284 6088
Daily: 6.30am – 3.30pm

WHERE TO DRINK IN PERTH

AIR NIGHTCLUB

Located in the bustling nightlife district of Northbridge, Air Nightclub is a stylish nightclub that opens till 5am on weekends. Kickstart the night with a potent ABC shot – a lethal mixture of Absinthe, Bacardi 151 and Chartreuse.

For something lighter, order Olivia’s cocktail and Death March; the former is a sweet, fruity alcoholic concoction that can only be prepared by bartender Olivia herself, while the latter is a spicy tobasco liqueur shot.

139 James Street, Northbridge WA 6003
Tel: +61 427 933 836
Fri and Sat: 9pm – 5am
Sun to Thu: Closed

LITTLE CREATURES BREWERY

Little Creatures is renowned for their pale ales and fans should make a special visit to their flagship brewery at Fremantle. No prior reservations are required and everyone is welcome to join one of the daily guided tours around the brewery.

40 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 6215 1000
Mon to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat: 9am – 12am
Sun: 9am – 11pm

THE AVIARY

Spanning across two storeys, The Aviary is a fancy bar-cum-restaurant located in the heart of Perth’s city. Head straight to the stunning open-air rooftop bar perched atop Goron Stephenson House and join in the party. The watering hole is packed with corporate workers, university students and literally everyone from all walks of life.

Gordon Stephenson House, 1/140 William St, Perth WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9226 0259
Mon to Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri: 12pm – 1am
Sat: 11am – 1am
Sun: 11am – 10pm

THE BEACH CLUB

We love the spacious space, nautical design and relaxed vibes at The Beach Club. Situated directly across Cottesloe Beach, The Beach Club provides city dwellers a great respite with its extensive menu of alcoholic drinks and bar nosh.

Cottesloe Beach Hotel
104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe, Western Australia 6011
Tel: +61 8 9383 1100
Daily: 12pm – 10pm

THE STANDARD

The Standard Bar Garden and Kitchen is ideal for a chill night out. Grab a drink at their elegant indoors or enjoy the alfresco ambience outdoors. It is also worth mentioning that The Standard serves really impressive Asian-fusion gourmet dishes too.

28 Roe St, Northbridge WA 6003, Australia
Mon to Thu: 4pm – 12am
Fri and Sat: 12pm – 12am
Sun: 12pm – 10pm
Tel: +61 8 9228 1331

TRANSPORTATION IN PERTH

TRANSFER FROM PERTH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

CONNECT Shuttle: Upon arrival at Perth International Airport Terminal 1, board a free terminal-transfer bus (available 24/4 daily) which will take you to Terminal 3. Over there, you can hop on the Perth Airport CONNECT Shuttle at A$15 per person one way.

Tickets can be purchased from the driver and you will be dropped at one of the following five destinations: East Perth Train Station, WA Museum on Beaufort Street, Wellington Street, (opposite the YHA Backpackers Hostel), The Kings Perth Hotel and The Ambassador Hotel.

Taxi: If you are travelling in a group or have multiple luggage, it would be more cost-efficient and time-efficient to get a taxi instead. It costs roughly A$38 from Perth Airport to the CBD.

Public Transport: Board Transperth’s 380, 37 or 40. For information regarding the buses’ frequency and timetable, refer to Transperth’s official website. Each one-way ticket costs A$4.50.

HOW TO GET AROUND PERTH

CAT buses in Perth’s CBD are absolutely free and allow you to cover various places in the city easily. If you are venturing beyond the city, you might have to ride on the Transperth Train. An one-way ticket typically start from A$2.10.tl

Prior to our recent trip to Perth, we noticed the lack of online recommendations for bakeries and cafes in this wonderful Western Australian city. So we took it upon ourselves and harassed our Perth-based friends for their favourite haunts.

Bear in mind that most establishments stop operating by the late afternoon in true-blue Aussie style, so wake up early or risk missing out!

There are more cafes in Perth than you think. And Australia really has the best cafes in the world. Here’s our guide to 16 Cafes & Coffee Shops in Perth That Are So Worth Visiting.

ADDISON & STEELE

One cafe in the North Bridge neighbourhood that we really loved is Addison & Steele. It is an open space with funky interior—an huge, open concept coffee bar with sleek coffee machines and pendant lamps, monochrome tiles and patterns all over the cafe, mismatched furniture and window-sill seats…

Addison & Steele has a simple menu of breakfast and brunch staples, and a whole list of regular coffee as well as seasonal specials (on the blackboard). And while you might be distracted by the caffeine options, do also give the Strawberry & Thyme Lemonade a try!

Addison & Steele
1/448 Fitzgerald St, North Perth, WA 6006, Australia
Tel: +61 432 938 322
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Mt Lawley

ARCHITECTS AND HEROES

If you are in the Subiaco ‘hood, Architects And Heroes is one cafe that is highly recommended by the locals. It may be a simple and unassuming-looking cafe, but it has honest coffee, tea and fruit juices.

It has a relatively big menu of breakfast items and toasties options and a very interesting menu of artisanal tea selections from specialist growers from all over the world.

Architects And Heroes
25 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
Mon to Fri: 6.30am – 4pm
Sat: 7am – 4pm
Sun: 7am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Subiaco

BREAD IN COMMON

Bread in Common is one of the most stunning cafes in Fremantle. Just a short walk from Esplanade Park, Bread In Common boasts a large indoor seating area with a distinct industrial look, hanging lights, numerous bottles of pickles and something that everyone comes here for—the A$2 free-flow bread.

Yes, you’ve heard that right. For just A$2, you get to have a go of the daily selection of house breads—as much as you can eat.

Apart from that, Bread In Common also has a menu of regular bakes, brunch mains and lots of fresh juice options.

Bread In Common
43 Pakenham St, Fremantle, WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 893 361 032
Sun to Thurs: 9am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Fremantle

CHU BAKERY

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth. Strategically located opposite Hyde Park, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day.

The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair. What you must try is its signature Chu Puff—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant. 

Chu Bakery
498 William St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 893 284 740
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: East Perth / Claisebrook Station

DUOTONE

DuoTone is an independent specialty coffee cafe that serves all-day gourmet brekkie till 2pm. The gluten-free Sweet Potato Stack (A$18.50) is one of their bestselling breakfast items and it consists of avocado mash, egg, maple bacon, rocket leaves, quinoa and tomato chutney.

Patrons are entitled to A$1 coffee on Mondays and Tuesdays with every breakfast/lunch purchased.

DuoTone
313 Hay St, East Perth, WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 893 259 396
Mon to Fri: 6.30am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Moiver Station

HYLIN

This is arguably our favourite cafe in Perth. Hylin may be a bit off the grid, but this neighbourhood cafe in West Leederville is totally worth travelling for. Its modern architecture and decor make the cafe a very cosy space to retreat to for breakfast.

Its menu is well put-together, with a great variety of brunch items (our favourite is the Grilled Chorizo, Fried Egg & Creamed Corn), bagels, lots of coffee options, smoothies and juices.

Hylin
178 Railway Parade, West Leederville, WA 6007, Australia
Tel: +61 401 815 804
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 3pm
Nearest Station: Leederville Station

KOKO BLACK

Koko Black is a chocolate institution, and one that all serious chocolate lovers must visit. Its outlet sits in the CBD area, and the huge space is as family friendly as it is romantic for a date.

We went for the degustation menu, and that is pretty much what everyone goes there for. At A$29.50, it comes with 5 sampler servings of Koko Black’s signature desserts and it is good for two to share. Our favourite has to be the Chocolate & Salted Caramel Tart!

Koko Black
140 William St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 263 929
Mon to Wed: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Thurs: 9.30am – 7pm
Fri: 9.30am – 10pm
Sat: 11am – 10pm
Sun: 12pm – 5.30pm
Nearest Station: Perth

LA VEEN

La Veen is where we had one of the best Avocado Smash in our lives. We are not even exaggerating! Its vegan Avocado Smash (A$18) comprises La Veen style avo creme slathered on sourdough bread, topped with fresh heirloom tomatoes, Danish feta, watercress and truffle oil. The seemingly complex flavours blended so well together, and every bite was memorable, with a lingering fragrance of the truffle oil.

This photogenic cafe sits in a heritage listed building, and the warm interior is inviting, cosy and very gorgeous. Red brick walls, long windows, relaxing music. Can we just say how much we love its Synesso coffee machine too?! Of course, while you are at it, have yourself a cuppa. La Veen does good coffee.

La Veen
90 King St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 893 211 188
Mon to Sat: 7am – 3pm
Sun: 8am – 1pm
Nearest Station: Perth

LAYUP

Layup is a cafe in Northbridge and is really a popular option in the ‘hood for its laid back vibes. The cafe is split into three parts—two rooms for indoor seating, and tables in the outdoor.

Plants and coffee aroma fill the space, and everyone loves their Acai Bowl (A$17). Other brunch items include Eggs on Toast (A$12), Lemongrass & Coconut Poached Salmon (A$24) and Deep Fried Hash (A$19).

Layup Cafe
197-199 Brisbane St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 481 064 166
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

MARY STREET BAKERY

Mary Street Bakery is renowned for their baked treats. Feast on their exciting selection of pastries, namely Rosewater & Pistachio Doughnuts (A$4.50 each), Lemon Maple Pecan Doughnuts (A$4.50 each) and Cinnamon Doughnuts (A$4). The bakery-cum-cafe also serves a hearty variety of savouries such as Cured Salmon (A$23) and Pork Schnitzel (A$20) till 3pm.

Mary Street Bakery
507-509 Beaufort St, Highgate, WA 6003, Australia
Tel: +61 499 509 300
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: East Perth / Mt Lawley Station

SAYERS SISTER

Set foot into Sayers Sister and you would feel like you have just entered someone’s living room. The cosy cafe is exceptionally popular in Perth and it is not hard to understand why after sampling their glorious food. Go there for breakfast as they have really outstanding breakfast items, such as the Leek & Parmesan Croquettes (A$19.50) and Pancette Wrapped Asparagus (A$19.50).

Choose your coffees from two premium in-house blends, namely chocolate blend and floral blend. The former is characterised by creamy caramel notes and a lingering cocoa aftertaste, while the latter has a distinctive candied peach aroma and a lingering dark chocolate finish.

Sayers Sister
236 Lake St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 277 506
Daily: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

SMALL PRINT BAKER & COFFEE MAKER

Coffee is serious business at Small Print Baker & Coffee Maker. From pourovers to cold brews, the specialty coffee shop’s professionally trained baristas would be happy to take you through the available seasonal coffees.

A comprehensive menu of artisanal breads, handcrafted cakes and scrumptious breakfast/lunch mains await too.

Small Print Baker & Coffee Maker
125 St Geroges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 862 820 022
Mon to Fri: 6.30m – 4pm
Nearest Station: Elizabeth Quay

TOAST

Toast is a scenic riverside cafe that oversees the Claisebrook Clove—an inlet of the picturesque Swan River—and serves nourishing all-day breakfast items.

Free-range eggs are sourced from Baldivis Farms, while free-range bacon and chicken come from Mondo Butchers. Bestsellers include Bacon & Maple Syrup Corn Fritters (A$16.90) and the classic Eggs Benedict (A$16.50).

Toast
21/60 Royal St, East Perth, WA 6004, Australia
Tel: +61 892 210 771
Daily: 7am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Claisebrook Station / East Perth

TUCK SHOP CAFE

While there is clearly nothing fancy about Tuck Shop Cafe, what won the Northbridge cafe a loyal fanbase is its simple but delicious food offerings.

Sink your teeth into Handmade Pies (A$12.95 each), Mixed Berry Pancakes (A$19.50) complemented with maple syrup and vanilla mascarpone or Bruschetta (A$18.50) with grilled bacon, goat’s curd, avocado and basil salad.

Tuck Shop Cafe
1/180 Newcastle St, Perth, WA 6000, Australia
Tel: +61 892 271 659
Tues to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Nearest Station: Perth

TYPIKA ARTISAN ROASTERS

Warehouse-like cafe Typika boasts an on-site coffee roastery where patrons get to witness all the roasting actions firsthand. Their signature Golden French Toast (A$19.50) is a must-order; fluffy french toasts served with banana slices, maple candied bacon and generous amounts of gooey salted caramel.

Typika’s Spiced Beef Benedict (A$21.50) is equally impressive too! The savoury delight is served with two soft poached eggs, harissa hollandaise and slow cooked beef on toast. Gluten-free options are available for most of Typika’s dishes upon request.

Typika Artisan Roasters
331 Stirling Hwy, Claremont, WA 6010, Australia
Tel: +61 892 846 088
Daily: 6.390am – 3.30pm
Nearest Station: Claremont Station

WHISK CREAMERY

Whisk Creamery is truly a paradise for those who have a sweet tooth. Throngs of eager customers are seen lining up at virtually any hour of the day to get their dessert fix.

Order the Tom & Berry’s (A$15.40) – a choux puff filled with berry compote, vanilla gelato, rhubarb sorbet, fresh cream and a homemade strawberry-chocolate macaron. Or customise your own!

Whisk Creamery
151 Rokeby Rd, Subiaco, WA 6008, Australia
Tel: +61 861 622 948
Sun to Thurs: 11am – 9.30pm
Fri & Sat: 11am – 10.30pm
Nearest Station: Subiaco

Hylin is hands-down our favourite cafe in Perth.

It may be a bit off the grid, but this neighbourhood cafe in West Leederville is totally worth travelling for. Its modern architecture and decor make the cafe a very cosy space to retreat to for breakfast. And we really liked the tables by the windows; perfect for a relaxing brunch session in Summer.

Great coffee, even better food… here’s everything we love about Hylin in Perth.

Let’s just start off by saying Hylin is very photogenic. Every part of the cafe is Instagram-worthy, and you will see why.

They may not have the luxury of space, but the corner unit is designed to feel like home. You’ve got your open concept coffee bar, island seats, tables by the windows (our favourite!), as well as some tables in the outdoors—ideal if you have pets with you.

Sunlight streams in to fill the space in summer, and the cool breeze caresses while you sip your coffee.

Its menu is well put-together, with a great variety of brunch items, bagels, smoothies and juices, and lots of coffee options.

Our breakfast was unforgettable. The Grilled Chorizo, Fried Egg & Creamed Corn (A$17.50) is a combination of rich flavours beautifully contrasting each other in one single dish. Our only gripe? The chorizo was slightly dry and overcooked, but we smoothed that out with the chipotle sauce that was served on the side.

And then there was the Chilli Cheese Scram with Jamon and Truffled Mushrooms. This is no ordinary egg dish. The scrambled eggs were milky and runny, and the addition of chilli cheese elevated its creaminess.

Gluten-free options are available with a nominal top-up.

Hylin also offers a comprehensive selection of coffee. You’ve got your usual blacks and whites (A$3 to A$4.20), cold brew coffee (A$4.50), filter coffee of single origin (A$3.50), chai latte (A$4.50)…

Not a coffee person? Sure, Hylin will have you covered with its Cheer range—juices, smoothies and bottled drinks that range from A$3 to A$9.50.

Hylin
178 Railway Parade, West Leederville WA 6007, Australia
Mon to Sat: 6.30am – 3pm
Tel: +61 401 815 804

Chu Bakery is arguably among the top bakeries in Perth, and it is also one of our favourites.

Strategically located opposite Hyde Park on William Street, the takeaway-only bakery spots long queues every day. It is not hard to understand why the locals love Chu Bakery so much—an array of croissants and bakes, good coffee, and breakfast takeouts.

The simple-looking bakery has a modern offering that keeps its regulars—residents and visitors to the parks—coming every day.

Step in and you will instantly feel the warmth of the bakery; very home-like, very comforting. The display of daily fresh bakes are visually arresting, to say the least. There are Asian nuances on the menu, as well as some French flair.

What you must try is its signature Chu Puff (A$6)—a choux pastry well made, topped with luscious and a surprise jelly in the middle. We liked the Lychee Raspberry Chu Puff so much. It was light and refreshing with a hint of tartness that went very easy on the palate.

They do a pretty mean Lemon Meringue Tart too! Buttery case with smooth, creamy lemon curd, topped with a slightly torched meringue that wasn’t overly sweet.

And if you are lucky, grab yourself a Kaya Coconut Croissant. That is one outstanding creation of Chu’s and something that everyone speaks well of!

Chu Bakery
498 William St, Highgate WA 6003, Australia
Tue to Sun: 7am – 4pm
Tel: +61 8 9328 4740

Ask anyone where the best Italian restaurant in Perth is and most of them will direct you to Ciao Italia.

The trattoria first opened its doors in 1999 as a tiny 20-seater humble eatery with a primary focus on takeouts. Word of its gourmet delicacies soon spread far and wide; today, Ciao Italia is a reputable household brand with throngs of eager fans queuing up every night.

Ciao Italia has gone from strength to strength over the past 1.5 decades, and they now have two outlets. The flagship restaurant at South Perth does not accept reservations, but bookings could be made at the newer location in Nedlands. We joined the eager queue at South Perth are here to present to you the low-down on our overall dinner experience.

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The 17-year-old restaurant is located at the corner of Douglas Avenue and queues start forming way even before 5pm. Note that the restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Ciao Italia’s comprehensive menu boasts a splendid selection of Italian classics such as wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pastas and lo and behold, the tastiest tiramisu you will ever have! Portions are incredibly generous and each dish could feed up to three pax.

We waited approximately 30 minutes before being allocated a table – and was told that we were already considered lucky for such a relatively short waiting time.

We kickstarted our meal with Calamari Alla Griglia (A$37.50) – superbly fresh ginormous squid rings grilled to perfection in a special homemade lemon sauce and served with lightly tossed mixed salad.

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The variety of pastas is extensive and guests can choose from fettucine, penne, ravioli, spaghetti, torellini and the list goes on. We highly recommend the Alla Salerno (A$35.50), which is essentially an exceptionally huge portion of artisanal squid ink pasta served with succulent shrimps, fresh basil and dunked in rich, creamy, white wine sauce infused with rose.

Do not leave Ciao Italia without ordering their heavenly Tiramisu (A$8.50). Smooth, delicate and moist, the texture of this coffee dessert is delightfully consistent throughout and hands down the most delicious rendition we ever had! The ladyfingers sponge cake – sandwiched with mascarpone cheese layers – topped with cocoa powder and cream blew us away.

Ciao Italia
273 Mill Point Road
South Perth WA 6151, Australia
(Corner of Douglas Avenue)
Tel: +61 8 9368 5500
Sun and Mon: Closed
Tue to Sat: 5pm – 10pm

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Typika Artisan Roasters was one of our dining highlights in Perth, and we would recommend it to any epicurean who loves to indulge in excellent coffees and cafe nosh. The spacious warehouse-like establishment – located in the suburb of Claremont – boasts an on-site coffee roastery where patrons get to witness all the roasting actions firsthand.

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The popular Australian cafe is conveniently located just within a five-minute stroll from Claremont station, but do bear in mind that last orders for food are at 2pm from Mondays to Thursdays and 2.30pm on Fridays to Sundays.

Trust us that Typika Artisan Roasters’ superb espresso-based beverages and dishes are worth waking up early for!

Do not leave cafe-cum-roastery Typika Artisan Roasters until you have savoured their insanely delicious Golden French Toast served with Maple Candied Bacon and Sliced Bananas drenched in Salted Caramel Sauce (A$19.50).

Just look at the generous amounts of gooey salted caramel dripping off the fluffy toasts. Holy moly, this made our day.

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Typika Artisan Roaster’s Spiced Beef Benedict (A$21.50) was one we remember vividly about too. The savoury delight is served with two soft poached eggs, delicious harissa hollandaise sauce and slow cooked beef on toast.

Gluten-free options are available for most of Typika’s dishes upon request. Complement your mains with a cuppa or even purchase their artisan coffee blends wholesale.

Unfortunately, specialty coffee cafe Typika Artisan Roasters does not accept reservations, so try your best to drop by early to avoid disappointment.

Typika Artisan Roasters
331 Stirling Hwy
Claremont WA 6010
Tel: +61 8 9284 6088
Daily: 6.30am – 3.30pm
Nearest Station: Claremont

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.

Western Australian city Fremantle is conveniently located within a 35-minute car journey from Perth’s Central Business District. Known affectionately as ‘Freo’ amongst the locals, the port city is famous for its laid back vibes, extremely fresh seafood and maritime history.

Fremantle makes a great day trip destination when in Perth, and is extremely popular amongst locals and natives alike. Here are several recommendations on What To See and Eat at Fremantle, Perth, Western Australia.

WHAT TO SEE

Esplanade Park

The Esplanade Park is characterised by gigantic pine trees and spacious green spaces. It is a public communal space where people gather and events are held.

For the best views of Fremantle, board the Tourist Wheel Fremantle (A$10 per child, A$12 per adult).

Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour

The iconic Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour is possibly the most vibrant and photogenic spot in Fremantle. Take a leisure stroll along the boardwalk and immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere!

The harbour is surrounded by seafood restaurants and boats of all sorts – definitely a walk to remember.

Fremantle Market

The weekend-only Fremantle Market is known for hawking a wide array of indigenous and indie products, local organic produce and natural good. Linger around and entertain yourselves with the various buskers’ performances.

South Terrace & Henderson St, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9335 2515
Mon to Thu: Closed
Fri: 9am – 8pm
Sat and Sun: 9am – 6pm

WHAT TO EAT

Kailis Fish Market Cafe

Overseeing the boat harbour, award-winning Kaili’s Fish Market Cafe has been a well-loved destination amongst locals and tourists alike since 1928 for its tasty fish and chips and other fresh value-for-money seafood delights.

46 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 9335 7755
Mon to Fri: 8am – 8.30pm
Sat and Sun: 8am – 9pm

Little Creatures Brewery

Little Creatures is renowned for their pale ales and fans should make a special visit to their flagship brewery at Fremantle. No prior reservations are required and everyone is welcome to join one of the daily guided tours around the brewery.

40 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
Tel: +61 8 6215 1000
Mon to Fri: 10am – 12am
Sat: 9am – 12am
Sun: 9am – 11pm

HOW TO GET THERE

Trains run from 5am to past midnight every 15 minutes and a one-way ticket costs A$4. The journey takes around 30 minutes and passengers should alight at Fremantle Train Station.

You heard us right, Crocodile Meat. Now, before you click away, you have to know that we were as apprehensive as you were before trying out this dish.

With the exceptional skills in the preparation of this dish, we were taken aback when the chef of Muscat at the The Vines Resort & Country Club in Swan Valley, Perth, told us that he made a platter of Crocodile Cheesecake, Crocodile Balls and Crocodile Spring Rolls.

Crocodile meat is not anything new, especially in Australia where it is quite readily available. However, in Singapore, it is less popular, although it is used at times in Chinese herbal remedies. Using only the tail of the crocodile, the chef mentioned that only this part of the crocodile is edible, as the rest would be too chewy.

In case you are wondering why of all animals, crocodile meat is actually very high in protein and low in fat, making it a healthier choice of meat. Crocodile is a succulent white meat and many have compared it to chicken as they are both rather similar. And we have to agree that it does not stink a bit.

The crocodile meat served to us in the dishes were either minced finely or pureed, possibly to make it less intimidating. Everything was seasoned to perfection and prepared so well that we almost forgot we were having crocodile meat! It definitely reminded us a lot of minced chicken or chicken breast meat when having these dishes.

This game meat might taste strange to some if eaten on its own with minimal seasoning, but with the right cooking techniques and preparation, it could taste incredible. Sure, crocodile is definitely not an everyday meat eaten by households across Australia, but it is for sure, no stranger to the Aussies.

We highly recommend anyone to at least have a taste of this delicacy when visiting Swan Valley and if you are more adventurous, there’s always kangaroo or emu meat!

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Swan Valley is a fairly unexplored part of Western Australia, but after spending a fruitful five days here, we were sold. Everything about Swan Valley was better than expected and for just a short 30-min drive from the Perth airport, there is no reason why you should not visit this gem of Western Australia!

Courtesy of Tourism Western Australia, our journey was packed with exploring the breath-taking views and mouth-watering cuisine of Swan Valley. Besides being treated to world-class gastronomical delights, we were also greeted by gorgeous vineyards and a wide selection of fine wines and liquor.

There was so much to do in Swan Valley that every day was nothing less than fulfilling.

There was a stark contrast between the towering skyscrapers in Perth’s Central Business District and the rustic and homely feel of Swan Valley! Here are the 12 Reasons To Visit Swan Valley in Perth.

#1 ASPARAGUS MASTERCLASSES AT EDGECOMBE BROTHERS WINERY & CAFE

Asparagus is a glorious vegetable and what better way to enjoy it than to eat it raw, straight from its root? Yes, you heard us right. With Edgecombe Brother’s Asparagus Masterclasses, you can have a taste of freshly grown, juicy and plump asparaguses that are so naturally sweet and fresh, you can eat it raw (it is safe!).

We learnt a lot about asparagus farming and we also found out that Edgecombe Brothers harvest about 4 tonnes of asparaguses each year! You also have to have a taste of blanched and sautéed asparaguses; it would probably be the freshest you could ever ask for.

Prices are going for AU$58.50 per person on weekdays and AU$70 per person on weekends; payment in advance is accepted. For booking and payment, contact +61 9296 4307 or drop a message here.

1733 Gnangara Rd Henley Brook, Western Australia 6056 (Cnr Gnangara & West Swan Rds)

#2 CHOCOLATE & WINE PAIRING MASTERCLASSES AT COWARD & BLACK

Treat yourself to an exciting afternoon of wine pairing here at Coward & Black, a collaboration between Margaret River Chocolate Company and Providore. In this short 30-min class, expect a very informative yet fun and hands-on experience.

Prices start from AU$30 per person, and you can book or reserve a seat here.

448 Harmans Mill Rd Wilyabrup WA 6280, Australia

#3 CAVERSHAM WILDLIFE PARK

As Caversham Wildlife Park is a fully independent entity, they rely on you to ensure that these animals here – who are mostly native to Western Australia – will continue to live a long and healthy life, while educating the public at the same time.

The main attractions here are definitely the albino kangaroos, and the squishy-looking wombats which have their own show – Wombat & Friends! Animals such as Dingos, Black Swans and Quokkas are also awaiting your visit here.

B/99 Lord Street Whiteman WA 6068, Australia

#4 FIORI COFFEE

FiORi Coffee is one of the leading coffee suppliers in Swan Valley, offering one of the best freshly roasted beans. After trying a couple of the aromatic cuppas here, including an exciting and intense cold-drip one, we were sold! The coffee beans here are fantastic, indeed.

14 Yukich Close Middle Swan WA 6056, Australia

#5 HALOUMI CHEESE-MAKING AT THE CHEESE BARREL

This was one of our favourite activities! We had first-hand experience making haloumi cheese from scratch; it was fun, it was eye-opening. With the guidance, we saw how easy it actually is to make the cheese.

The Cheese Barrel also offers other exciting cheese-making classes. The sheer idea of learning how to make all your favourite cheese had our hearts skipping a beat and we wished we had more time here!

The Cheese Barrel is located in the same property as Olive Farm Wines, one of the oldest wineries in Western Australia. Here, you can find unique blends of fortified wines, including the classic selections.

For enquiries or bookings for cheese-making, contact info@thecheesemaker.com.au

920 Great Northern Hwy Millendon WA 6056, Australia

#6 HUMANE FOOD AT BLACK SWAN RESTAURANT

The City of Swan is striving towards being a fully humane food region with most restaurants and cafes already onboard to serve the best and freshest food, much like a farm-to-table concept. The food at Black Swan was one of the best we had.

Our dinner started with a starter of prawns with jasmine rice; aromatic and tasty. The main of Pork Belly was served in a massive portion – much to our delight, of course. The highlight of this meal was unanimously the the Sticky Date Pudding. The table went silent, and everyone buried their heads in the dessert that was so good, we took a while to come to terms with its taste. Some of us gobbled it down within seconds!

8600 West Swan Rd Henley Brook WA 6055, Australia

#7 SINGAPORE AIRLINES ANNUAL SWAN VALLEY WINE AWARDS SHOW

We were guests at this annual event where the best winemakers in Swan Valley were shortlisted and shared equal chances to win the coveted trophies of having the best wines in their division or category. Of course, this is an invite-only event, but it was held at the stunning and huge Mandoon Estate.

Mandoon Estate is a winery with many restaurants, a craft beer brewery and more. Its architectural appeal certainly wowed us, and we felt like we were in a luxury home in Beverly Hills. Is it worth coming here? Definitely. The amazing wines here are, of course, still the stars of the show.

10 Harris Rd Caversham WA 6055, Australia

#8 TAYLOR’S ART & COFFEE HOUSE

Taylor’s Art & Coffee House is one of the most popular cafes in Swan Valley, sitting a full house daily during breakfast service. The building itself used to be the Taylor family’s home, but is now run by their two children. Caroline Taylor heads the cafe with her brother and they aim to provide humane food, using only organic produce and food that they can get from farms in the vicinity.

Jude Taylor, Caroline’s mother, displays her beautiful wild flowers artwork inside the store and has fabrics, cards and more – all available for purchase. What we tasted here, we loved. Everything was so flavourful, yet we got a sense of comfort akin to dining at home.

Every piece of furniture was made by Caroline’s brother (whom used to be a furniture maker). The quirkiness and homeliness of this place are its biggest appeals.

510 Great Northern Hwy, Middle Swan WA 6056, Australia

#9 THE VINES RESORT AND COUNTRY CLUB

The Vines Resort & Country Club is the best place you can stay in at Swan Valley. Inside this huge area is a large golf course with free-roaming kangaroos, vineyards and amenities such as a spa and pool. The room itself is huge and you can pick from a selection of different room types.

Verdelho Drive, The Vines WA 6069, Australia

#10 WHISTLER’S CHOCOLATE FACTORY

This is every chocolate lover’s dream – a full chocolate factory offering hundreds of different chocolate options. You can have a taste of the chocolates first, before picking your favourite ones to buy. Our tastebuds were immediately drawn to the chocolate pretzels here; you bet we bought so many of that!

506 Great Northern Hwy Middle Swan

#11 WINDY CREEK ESTATE WINES

Windy Creek is one of our favourite wineries for two very simple reasons – the comforting vibes and the amazing wines. Windy Creek was also one of the award winners at the wine show, and a bottle is well-priced at an average of A$12 per bottle.

You can start off with a wine tasting session, and it including fortified options, before deciding what to buy. They also offer amazing freshly-made jams and relishes that we were so impressed with; we bought at least 5 jars each!

27 Stock Rd Herne Hill WA 6056, Australia

#12 YAHAVA KOFFEEWORKS

Yahava Koffeeworks is a very popular coffee house that you must visit when in Swan Valley. They even have an adorable drive-thru! We attended a casual talk given by an extremely skilful barista, who shared with us so much about their coffee. We even witnessed a coffee roasting session on the roasting machines.

The beans here are so fresh, and they even have coffee chocolates made in-house. Also, be wowed by the stunning view of a water body and lush greenery just behind Yahava Koffeeworks – all these while you enjoy a fresh and warm cuppa and give thanks to all that you have in life.

4752 W Swan Rd West Swan WA 6055, Australia

This trip to Swan Valley is made possible by Tourism Western Australia.

About the writer:
Cheryl is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She loves a good steak and an even better cuppa. She eats just about anything and everything. In her free time, she regularly starts on sci-fi or fantasy movie marathons.

Ah, Perth. It’s not quite the bustling metropolis that is Sydney, nor does it boast the quirkiness of Melbourne’s coffee connoisseurs and music lovers – but don’t be too quick to brush it aside. The laidback capital and largest city of Western Australia has its own quiet charms, endearing characteristics and, of course, one of the best climates in the country.

If you’re not yet convinced by the short five-and-a-half hour flight time and affordable fares to hop on a plane, check out our list of the Top 10 things to do in Perth.

#1. CHILL OUT AT COOL CAFÉS

Yes, the indie café culture is very much alive in Perth – all you brunch fanatics and coffee devotees can breathe a sigh of relief. If you’re looking for a slice of homely goodness, visit the quirky, family-run Piccolo’s Corner; or go for a modern twist at Architects & Heroes, which boasts silky smooth coffee blends, funky murals and delish pastries. Fancy an industrial chic vibe (complete with brick walls and exposed light bulbs)? The laidback Sixteen Ounces is the place to be.

This next one’s for the ladies (or anyone who loves flowers, really): Rose Heritage Café. Plopped on top of a hill, the cosy space may be slightly pricey, but the stunning view of Melville Nurseries’ floral gardens make it worth the trip. And Tuck Shop Café, with its clean and bright décor, is known for its affordable prices, big serving portions and amazing sweet and savoury creations. Other honourable mentions include Sayers, Lowdown and Little Willy’s.

#2 HAVE A SPLASHIN’ GOOD TIME

There are countless beaches in Perth for you to get your tan on or engage in water sports (just keep in mind that summer season brings with it the constant buzz of houseflies) – some of the more popular spots include Cottesloe Beach and its crystal clear waters, Scarborough Beach for a bout of surfing, Turquoise Bay for snorkeling, and others like Cable Beach, City Beach and Shoalwater Marine Park, where you can dive among shipwrecks and underwater creatures.

#3. GET YOUR RETAIL THERAPY FIX – IT’S SHOPPING TIME!

Forget big brand names – get dressed at charming boutiques filled with Aussie labels instead. Like Department, a trendy space that stocks up on sleek and sophisticated apparel by labels like Nicolangela. There’s also Peachy, a boutique opened by a pair of Perth fashion bloggers, featuring clothes and accessories in styles from minimalistic chic to eclectic prints; and the more high-end Love Story, for those who prefer feminine, casual pieces.

For more shopping goodness, wander through Claremont Quarter to check out the huge selection of shiny stores, or dig through racks of secondhand clothes for vintage gems at Mount Lawley.

#4. ENJOY FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

Plan a trip to some of the quaint islands surrounding Perth, such as Penguin Island, to encounter the adorable creatures and sign up for adventure cruises to spot dolphins and sea lions. The delightful flora and fauna at Rottnest Island are worthy of exploring, as well as the beaches and activities there – plus, you’ll be surrounded by oh-so-cute, friendly quokkas.

For more fun times, plunge into rides filled with thrills and spills at Adventure World, head to the Perth Zoo to get up close and personal with your favourite animals, slide down the famed fluffy sand dunes in the town of Lancelin, or chill out at Hillarys Boat Harbour.

5. APPRECIATE BEAUTIFUL HISTORY AND HERITAGE

Embark on a journey of discovery with Indigenous Tours WA or immerse yourself in history at the Fremantle Prison, a maximum-security-jail-turned-tourist-attraction. If you’re the arty-farty type, visit the Western Australian Museum, The Art Gallery of Western Australia or the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts. You can also drive out to New Norcia (Australia’s only monastic town) and admire the gorgeous architecture there, or feast your eyes on the colonial buildings of York. Planning a trip around Feb or March? Get your dose of arts and culture at the annual Perth International Arts Festival and enjoy music, theatre, visual arts and dance performances.

6. KEEP ON MUNCHIN’

What’s a vacay without good food? The top restaurant everyone heads to is definitely the award-winning Nobu (yes, the Japanese one with a worldwide presence) for signature plates like the black cod miso, but other notable Jap places include Ha-Lu (try the Fremantle octopus) and Nao (for amazing ramen). If you love your beer, the homegrown Little Creatures Brewery offers a rowdy good time with a wide selection of brews alongside must-tries like mussels and their selection of wood-fired pizzas.

For more scrumptious times, chow down on fresh fish and chips at The Fish Shack or Sweet Lips, indulge in yummy tiramisu at Ciao Italia, get soulful with Southern-style American buttermilk biscuits and fried chicken at The Old Crow, savour meaty hunks of steak at Fibber McGee’s or pair your meal with innovative cocktails at The Classroom.

#7. BROWSE THROUGH MARKETS CHOCK FULL OF GOODIES

The weekend-only Fremantle Markets are known for hawking a wide array of indigenous and indie products, local organic produce and natural goods, all housed in a Victorian building and set to a festive atmosphere with live music performances and events – must-tries include their to-die-for crepes and ridiculously refreshing cups of orange juice.

Also on weekends, the European-styled Subiaco Markets offer healthy foods alongside baked treats, international dishes, gift and apparel shops, and even beauty services (plus, you can catch a live game at the stadium during footy season). For the not-so-regular ones, MANY 6160 opens its doors every weekend during winter to display indie labels and artworks, and the quarterly Perth Upmarket features handcrafted items, homeware, jewellery and skin care products.

#8. TAKE A WINE-TASTING TRIP

Spend a weekend at Margaret River (it’s about a three-hour drive from the city) and explore the beautiful local wineries for gourmet food and drink. Bigger ones like Vasse Felix are fascinating, but we’d recommend you go for smaller, more intimate ones such as Knee Deep, Windows Estate, Cape Grace and Juniper Estate. If you’d like to keep exploring, the area also has numerous breweries, natural attractions, galleries and even a chocolate factory.

In comparison, Swan Valley isn’t as big, but it’s only about half an hour away from the city. Swing by names like Lamont’s Winery or Pinelli Estate, and spend the rest of the day hanging out with adorable animals at the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm, the West Australian Reptile Park or the Caversham Wildlife Park. There are also shops, heritage trails and museums in the area, but the one place you must stop by for grub is Alfred’s Kitchen. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming appearance – this roadside eatery has been around since 1946, and the burgers here are legendary.

#9. UNLEASH YOUR INNER WILD CHILD

It’s a common perception that Perth (and most of Australia) goes quiet after 5pm, but it’s actually pretty happening at night, when all the party-goers come out to play. Drink up at Helvetica, which boasts a sweet range of whiskies, or get boozy with the impressive selections at Mechanics Institute Small Bar, Lalla Rookh Wine Store and Clarences. Then hit up the ever-popular, two-storey Villa nightclub for a bout of late night dancing.

If you’re the type who loves a good rave, Metro City, with its 2,000-capacity venue, is for you (plus, it’s in Northbridge, where you’ll have no problem finding your pick of clubs). Otherwise, Geisha Bar’s intimate space is an elegant retreat into opulence and the Ellington Jazz Club offers up an evening of groovy live tunes.

#10. ADMIRE THE BEST OF MOTHER NATURE

Gorgeous seas? Check. Skies so blue, they look right out of a postcard? Double check. If you’re looking for spectacular sceneries, Perth has got it in spades. Start off by strolling through Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, where you’ll get a lovely view of the city skyline when you reach the top. Then strap on your boots for a hike on the Bibbulmun Track (it’s almost 1,000 km from the east of Perth to Albany, and you can stay overnight at some of the campsites provided), or ride on the Munda Biddi bike trail for a scenic trip.

Swan River is where most of the locals go running, as it offers undisturbed views of the cityscapes, but if you’d rather go on a road trip, head for the sightseeing scenic routes on Pemberton’s Great Forest Trees Drive or Mount Shadforth Scenic Drive.

About the writer:
Alicia Lee is a dessert junkie with a serious (and probably incurable) case of wanderlust. Never one to pass up on retail therapy, she loves a great bargain and can usually be spotted on weekends browsing through quirky shops or chillaxing at a quiet cafe.