Western Australia’s culinary scene is mainly centered on Perth. However, visitors exploring the state will encounter plenty of fine dining during their travels. Perth boasts a fantastic list of international and local delights, but be sure to eat before 9:00 p.m., as late night dining simply doesn’t exist here. Rock lobsters are not only cheap, but absolutely divine, along with chili mussels in the southwest. Swan Beer is the main local brew, although there are several important wineries that can be visited. Outside of the capital, Western Australia’s nightlife is quite relaxed and social, but head to Perth for the best clubs and beats.
Bars and Pubbing in Western Australia
Perth is a fantastic spot for clubbing or just getting a social drink. Victoria Park, Subiaco, Northbridge, and the CBD are the liveliest districts, with extended liquor hours until 1:00 a.m., 2:00 a.m. or even 3:00 a.m. Nowhere (Cnr Murray Street and Irwin Street, Perth CBD) is an interesting, alternative night club in the CBD. A colossal list of cocktails is found at Ambar (104 Murray Street, Perth CBD). The large R&B dance club Metro City (146 Roe Street, Northbridge) is part of the vibrant Northbridge scene.
Although much smaller than Perth, Albany still has several great watering holes. Tanglehead Brewery (Stirling Terrace, Albany) is a local favorite for microbrews. Liberte at the London Hotel (Stirling Terrace, Albany) is a dynamic cocktail bar and dance club. For a more social, laid-back atmosphere in Western Australia, try the Albany Hotel (York Street, Albany) in the center of town.
Geraldton is a small coastal town with a relaxing night scene. The Provincial Wine Bar (167 Marine Terrace, Geraldton) has an extensive list of great vinos. The Freemasons Hotel (Cnr Durlacher Street and Marine Terrace, Geraldton) is the main pub in town and is blessed with excellent theme nights several times a week. The Camel Bar (20 Chapman Road, Geraldton) is not far from the beach, so it’s a great place to kick back after a busy day of sightseeing.
Dining and Cuisine in Western Australia
Amuse (64 Bronte Street East, Perth) has won many national recognitions, so advanced reservations are definitely required. Nine Fine Foods (227 Bulwer Street, Northbridge) is a little cheaper than some places in Western Australia, but still has fantastic Japanese dining. C Restaurant Lounge (St Martins Tower, Level 33/44) has the most amazing views of the city, and great menus to boot.
Margaret River is home to an exciting range of wineries and restaurants. For great Australian tastes, try Must Margaret River (107 Bussell Highway). The tapas style restaurant, Wino’s (85 Bussell Highway, Margaret River), is a fabulous place for great Italian dining. Watershed Café and Restaurant (Bussell Highway, Margaret River) has stunning meals and an exciting ambiance any time of the day.
The Venice Pizza Bar and Restaurant (179 York Street, Albany) in Albany provides a huge, hearty Italian menu. A trip to the state is incomplete without trying a traditional steakhouse, and Rustlers Steak House (Stirling Terrace, Albany) is the best. Dylan’s on the Terrace Restaurant (82-84 Stirling Terrace, Albany) has food only rivaled by its stunning views.