There is a wide variety of bars and clubs in Perth to suit any drinker's tastes. You can enjoy live music and a variety of beers on tap by visiting a bar or pub. If you'd rather keep things low key, there's always the nearby coffee shop where the wait staff wears aprons and treats regulars like family. You can have fun here regardless of your tastes.
Do you need a suggestion for a bar in Perth, Australia? If that's the case, you don't need to go anywhere else; we've put together a list of the top ten destinations. In this post, we'll introduce you to each bar, highlight what sets it apart, and give you some background on the area. There is also a handy infographic at the end that summarises the ten bars and provides links to their websites. Enjoy yourself as you read about the most popular hangouts among the masses.
Do you live in or are you visiting Perth? Is finding a new bar for a night out with pals something you look forwards to? The city of Perth is home to countless cafes, pubs, and bars, making it difficult to choose. You'll find a breakdown of some of Perth's top drinking establishment here, organised by the kind of drink you're in the mood for. Whether you're looking for a quiet nook to read in or a lively bar to mingle with friends, you'll find it here.
Best Bars in Perth to Relax and Unwind
No matter what you say, the aesthetic appeal of a bar is an important factor in determining whether or not it will become a preferred hangout in Perth. A well-curated bar selection is essential. There's also the matter of food. But after those two things are taken care of (and really, they should be a given at any good bar), all anyone wants to do is sit somewhere nice and drink themselves silly—but not too silly, because these are Perth's most beautiful bars.
From hidden speakeasies to swanky rooftop bars, Perth has a thriving cocktail scene. Nonetheless, it has flourished since the small-bar revolution of the late aughts, with many bartenders proudly displaying bottles from Western Australian distillers.
No task has ever been more daunting than selecting the top bars in Perth, but we're going to give it a shot. We've spent countless hours drinking our way through the city in an effort to narrow it down.
Going to some new cocktail bars in Perth and Fremantle could be a lot of fun. While Washington State is rightly celebrated for its world-class wine and craft beer, it should also be recognised for its extraordinary range of inventive cocktails and mocktails. A few excellent cocktail lounges are listed below for your consideration.
We've scouted a wide variety of bars for you to choose from, including classic artisanal cocktail joints, underground speakeasies that require some effort to access, and seriously good wine bars that serve glass after glass of delicious wine.
King Somm
In terms of cosy neighbourhood bars, King Somm is as good as it gets. The dark charcoal walls and low lighting create an intimate atmosphere perfect for a date, while also highlighting the historic features of this former billiard saloon. One of the best parts is the wall of wine bottles that greets you as you walk in.
Henry Summer
It's no surprise that Henry Summer, a Northbridge bar, is one of the loveliest places to enjoy a meal and a drink outside. There aren't many places as ridiculously beautiful as this one, what with the jungle decor, cutesy green chairs, and pastel pink bar stools.
Mummucc
Wembley's Grantham Street is home to a number of great neighbourhood watering holes, including Monsterella and its younger sibling, Mummucc. The sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere is amped up by the classy bar and the chic black, white, and teal colour scheme.
Si Paradiso
When Europe beckoned, Si Paradiso answered with its own brand of retro Italian cool. Imagine colourful beach umbrellas and plenty of foliage outside, and mosaic tiles and stained glass inside. An Italian version of Motel Mexicola.
Republic Of Fremantle
On Pakenham Street, between the historic structures, you'll find the brand-new The Republic of Fremantle distillery. The brand's signature vodka and gin have won numerous awards, and while the moody atmosphere and gourmet snacks are certainly eye-catching, it's the drinks that really stand out. After you've had a taste of the house specialities in a flight, peruse the extensive cocktail menu, which includes both classic drinks and modern twists on them.
St Brigid Bar
This new neighbourhood bar is the brainchild of Siobhan Blumann and Hamish Flemming, the illustrious duo responsible for such landmark establishments as Flipside, Guildhall, Mechanics Institute, Propeller, and Mrs. Brown Bar. Order one of their signature bubble cocktails with a side of crispy roast potatoes or their upscale take on the classic espresso martini known as "long mac topped up," to find out why the locals are waiting in line.
Foxtrot Unicorn
The bartenders at Foxtrot Unicorn are among the best in Australia, so it's only fair that they be included. These bartenders are making the best cocktails with the best atmosphere and the best cheese jaffles. That being the case, how could one possibly dislike it?
You can get your hands on one of Perth's newest cocktail creations at this basement bar on St Georges Terrace, which features a team of gun bartenders. If you're familiar with the Perth bar scene or just have a good memory for bartenders, you might recognise owner Dimitri Rtshiladze. Along with former bartender Tom Kearney, he was a mainstay at Mechanics Institute and helped usher in the establishment's current generational vibe. Although originality is expected (try their Roku gin, smoked beetroot, ginger, or hickory), they also make delicious toasties.
Nieuw Ruin
The creative minds behind Foxtrot Unicorn have brought us Nieuw Ruin, a wine bar with an extensive food menu and a wine list of 250+ bottles that has quickly become a favourite in Fremantle. You can choose to have a boozy sundowner indoors in the cosy setting provided by the venue, which is housed in an old heritage cottage with beautiful high ceilings and oodles of character, or you can enjoy the venue's generous outdoor area.
Neon Palms
The tropical, neon-lit interiors of Neon Palms scream "Miami Vice," making it feel like a true vacation destination without having to leave Perth. Pick up a couple of empanadas and a neon margarita and settle in to a booth or the courtyard; you're in for a good time either way.
Songbird, Perth
Ritz-Carlton Signature cocktails at Perth's impressive rooftop bar are served in glass songbirds and feature local Western Australian spirits like The West Winds and SouWester gins, Illegal Tender rum, and native botanicals. Songbird's casual menu is ideal for watching the evening apertivo while the Ritz-signature Carlton's restaurant, Hearth, has been making headlines.
Mechanics Institute, Northbridge
Many of Perth's top bartenders got their start at Mechanics Institute, one of the city's first small bars. The al fresco rooftop and Flipside burgers, located on William Street below, have made this a Northbridge staple. No longer cutting-edge, but by no means irrelevant.
The Mechanics Institute rooftop bar, which has won numerous awards, is discretely located along a laneway adorned with street art at the busy intersection of William Street and James Street in Northbridge. The landmark building pays homage to its past as a training facility for working men while firmly rooted in the present, attracting an active young clientele who come to try the ever-changing cocktail list.
Hillbilly Bob's Ruckus Juice, made with Ginger beer, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Orgeat syrup, lime, and lager is a staple at this hip Perth bar. In addition, you should try an espresso martini. On Bartender Appreciation Day, it's important to recognise the hardworking staff members who create a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
There's a great burger delivery service just above Flipside, where you can relax and enjoy it. The energetic young crew will gladly make the short trip to the second floor to deliver it.
FAQS About Bars and Nightlife in Perth
Yes, Northbridge is the main area for nightlife in Perth. It has a wide range of bars, clubs, and pubs, catering to different tastes and preferences. Other popular areas for nightlife include Perth CBD, Fremantle, and Subiaco.
Yes, there are a few 24-hour bars in Perth, including the Mustang Bar in Northbridge and the Crown Perth complex, which has several bars and restaurants that operate around the clock.
Most bars and pubs in Perth do not have a strict dress code, but some may enforce a smart-casual dress code, especially on weekends or for special events. It is best to check with the venue beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
Perth's nightclubs play a variety of music genres, including electronic dance music, hip-hop, R&B, rock, and indie music. Many clubs have themed nights or dedicated nights for specific music genres.
Yes, most bars and pubs in Perth require valid photo identification to verify your age before serving you alcohol. Acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license, passport, or proof of age card.
Long Chim, State Buildings, Perth
Most people associate Long Chim with David Thompson, the durian fruit, or the time they voted down the Chiang Mai larb (fools!). However, thanks in part to Thompson's appreciation for a fine libation, Long Chim has earned a stellar reputation over the years for its excellent cocktails. You can count on subtle, authentic Thai flavours in every dish.
Bathers Beach House
Over the years, Bathers Beach has become a popular destination for locals to reminisce. Bathers Beach House, a wine, beer, and cocktail bar in Fremantle near Fishing Boat Harbour, has recently opened for casual coffee, dining, and sundowners.
The licenced beach area and restaurant with clear ocean views are quickly becoming a popular option for relaxing summer nights. Perth residents flock there to take pictures of the city's famous sunsets and to feel the sand between their toes as the day winds down.
The Cuddles on the Beach mocktail and other mixed drinks, including vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and bourbon, make this the ideal place to enjoy a drink as the sun goes down. Some of the best drinks on the menu include the Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita, Salted Caramel Espresso Martini, Christmassy Big Pav, and the Bathers Red Sangria, which combines strawberry liqueur, pavlova vodka, passionfruit, meringue, strawberries, kiwis, and cream.
Sweetwater Rooftop Bar
Sweetwater, a cocktail bar in Fremantle, is located on the sixth floor, with a balcony overlooking the city below. The atmosphere is breezy and summery, with a touch more attention paid to decoration than in Mechanics. In addition to a carefully curated cocktail menu, they will gladly make your go-to drink to order.
Simple, descriptive titles highlight the central experience rather than using fancy names. Cinnamon, Rum, and grapefruit juice go into the Spiced Pink Grapefruit Daiquiri, while white chocolate, maple syrup, bourbon, and cointreau are the basis of the short & Sweet.
Alternatives to the classic tequila version include the ginger beer , mandarin, and agave concoction known as the Ginger Sunset; the gingerbread, apple, and gin concoction known as the Gingerbread Delight; and so on. After that, get a tasty Asian-style sharing plate to pass around.
Long Chim
If you're a cocktail connoisseur in Perth, you can't miss this bar in the lively State Buildings complex's basement courtyard, which has a Thai street food vibe. At night, when the artwork is illuminated, you may feel as though you've been transported to the exotic land of BangkThai, whose flavours are reflected in even the cocktails. You can't go wrong with the Ping Pong, which combines sloe gin, vodka, ginger, and almond, or the Thai Basil Smash, which combines gin, Thai chilli, and basil, or the Muay Thai Mai Tai, which combines tequila, ginger, coconut, and coriander.
Paradise Found, Ginger & Chilli Soda, and Thai Basil Seed Drink, a refreshing blend of ginger, pineapple, and almond mint, are just a few of the alcohol-free beverages available at Long Chim.
Bar Lafayette
The best place to celebrate National Bartenders Day in Perth is at Perth's finest craft cocktail lounge. Relax at the bar for a while as you peruse the extensive list of mocktails and cocktails available. The helpful bartenders will be happy to assist you in selecting or preparing your preferred beverage.
Take a look at the legendary cocktail recipes that have made it into the Hall of Fame. Caramelised anise pear, pear bitters, spices, and pear brandy come together in the Pearfectioned cocktail, which deserves at least one try. The Watermelon Millionaire is another tasty choice; it's made by mixing fresh lime juice, watermelon, sloe gin, rum, and grenadine, apricot liqueur.
Like many successful cocktail bars, Bar Lafayette capitalises on our current fondness for classic design with a modern twist. Whether you've been out all day working or sight-seeing, nothing beats unwinding in one of the Chesterfield sofas or traditional leather armchairs.
Located just south of St. Georges Terrace is the quaint community of Brookfield Place, home to another lovingly restored historic building.
Bobèche
Yet another pub has opened in Perth, this one with a posh, retro vibe, located in Brookfield Place. Bobèche adopts a carnival atmosphere from the 19th century, complete with well-dressed and skilled bartenders. Whiskey, peanut butter, and chocolate make up the Nuts About Bananas, while lillet blanc, midori and absinthe come together in the Pushing up Daisies.
Get there early if you're travelling with a large group in order to secure a table and sample the shared cocktails. To begin, a game of Bob Zombies is practically foolproof (passion fruit, falernum syrup, pineapple, and rum).
Wolf Lane
The decor at Wolf Lane, a trendy cocktail lounge on Perth's King Street, is equal parts cosy, shabby chic and clever, slightly eerie fairytale. You should arrive early on Bartender Appreciation Day or any Friday evening to look at the artwork and artefacts and choose your seat if you're having trouble visualising this.
There's a quiet alley called Wolf Lane that might make you question your sanity. Then, add to the ambience with some cocktails and unique bar snacks served in Grandma May's teapots.
The Southside (known as gin lover's Mojito) and also Swanky Swan (a new take on the classic) can both be found on the cocktail menu (Brandy liqueur, lime, swan draught beer, rum, and passionfruit).
Request a "Surprise Me," and the bartender will have fun coming up with a unique drink for you.
The Meatball Bar
Bar food doesn't get much better than flavorful meatballs, and Fremantle, Mount Lawley, and Leederville all have cocktail bars serving them. There is a long list of classic cocktails that the bartenders are happy to make for you, and you can get two of them for just $17.
You should take your time perusing the menu because it features so many delicious and original options, such as those listed below. Fremantle Breeze: bourbon, soda, liqueur, ginger, peach puree, cucumber, lime juice, and pomegranate ; Frenchie: vodka-infused cranberry, gin, lemon juice, marshmallow, and marshmallow syrup; Popcorn Martini: pop corn syrup, cognac, egg white, and white chocolate.
Halford Bar
Perth's plazas, courtyards, and alleys are becoming more interconnected, which has led to an increase in foot traffic and the success of the city's small bars. Halford Bar can be found towards Hay Street in the revitalised Cathedral Square, directly beneath the luxurious OMO The Treasury hotel.
Visit Halford's, where helpful staff will instruct you in the ways of good whisky. This low-light lounge is one of the best cocktail bars in Perth, known for its extensive whisky list. Relax with a Halford Martini, a specialty cocktail that features apricot brandy, gin, anchovy olives, and lillet blanc. There's also the Halford Zombie, which is made with toasted marshmallow, absinthe, lime, and rum. Mocktails can be turned into cocktails by adding the one alcoholic ingredient specified on the menu.
Helvetica
Secluded whisky and cocktail bar Helvetica can be found down a graffiti-covered alley off Howard Street, not far from Elizabeth Quay. On Fridays, stop by this chill bar for a drink.
You simply must try Yzma's Elixir, a concoction of cardamom compote, casoni, rhubarb and rye gin, sparkling wine, soda water, and lemon juice. You can't go wrong with either the Fish House Punch (made with brandy, rum, peach liqueur, lemon, soda, sugar, and sparkling wine) or the Penicillin (made with honey, ginger, lemon juice, and malt whisky).
Conclusion
Perth, Australia is home to a variety of bars and clubs to suit any drinker's tastes. We have compiled a list of the top ten destinations, introducing them to each bar, highlighting what sets it apart, and providing links to their websites. The aesthetic appeal of a bar is an important factor in determining whether or not it will become a preferred hangout in Perth, as well as a well-curated bar selection and food. The cocktail scene has flourished since the small-bar revolution of the late aughts, with many bartenders proudly displaying bottles from Western Australian distillers. We have spent countless hours drinking our way through the city in search of the best bars in Perth.
Going to some new cocktail bars in Perth and Fremantle could be a lot of fun. We've scouted a wide variety of bars for you to choose from, including classic artisanal cocktail joints, underground speakeasies, and seriously good wine bars. King Somm, Henry Summer, Mummucc, Si Paradiso, Republic Of Fremantle, and St Brigid Bar are some of the best places to enjoy a meal and a drink outside. The Republic of Fremantle distillery's signature vodka and gin have won numerous awards, and while the moody atmosphere and gourmet snacks are eye-catching, it's the drinks that really stand out. Si Paradiso is a retro Italian cool bar with colourful beach umbrellas and plenty of foliage outside, and mosaic tiles and stained glass inside.
The bartenders at Foxtrot Unicorn and Nieuw Ruin are among the best in Australia, making the best cocktails with the best atmosphere and the best cheese jaffles. The Ritz-Carlton Signature cocktails at Perth's impressive rooftop bar are served in glass songbirds and feature local Western Australian spirits like The West Winds and SouWester gins, Illegal Tender rum, and native botanicals. The Neon Palms is a tropical, neon-lit interiors and the casual menu is ideal for watching the evening apertivo while the Ritz-signature Carlton's restaurant, Hearth, has been making headlines. The Mechanics Institute rooftop bar in Northbridge has won numerous awards, and Hillbilly Bob's Ruckus Juice, made with Ginger beer, Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, Orgeat syrup, lime, and lager, is a staple. Bathers Beach House, a wine, beer, and cocktail bar in Fremantle, has recently opened for casual coffee, dining, and sundowners.
On Bartender Appreciation Day, it is important to recognise the hardworking staff members who create a relaxed and enjoyable environment. The best place to celebrate National Bartenders Day in Perth is at Bar Lafayette, a craft cocktail lounge in the State Buildings complex's basement courtyard. They offer a carefully curated cocktail menu, with simple, descriptive titles highlighting the central experience. Cocktails include the Ginger Sunset, Ginger Delight, Ping Pong, Thai Basil Smash, Muay Thai Mai Tai, Paradise Found, Ginger & Chilli Soda, and Thai Basil Seed Drink. The Watermelon Millionaire is another tasty choice, made by mixing fresh lime juice, watermelon, sloe gin, rum, and grenadine, apricot liqueur.
Bobèche, Wolf Lane, and The Meatball Bar are all popular cocktail bars in Perth. Bobèche is a posh, retro pub with a carnival atmosphere from the 19th century, complete with well-dressed and skilled bartenders. Wolf Lane is a trendy cocktail lounge on King Street with cosy, shabby chic and clever, slightly eerie fairytale decor. The Southside and Swanky Swan are both on the cocktail menu, and the bartender will have fun coming up with a unique drink for you. Meatball Bar offers flavorful meatballs, and Fremantle, Mount Lawley, and Leederville all have cocktail bars serving them.
Perth's plazas, courtyards, and alleys are becoming more interconnected, leading to an increase in foot traffic and the success of small bars. Halford Bar is one of the best cocktail bars in Perth, known for its extensive whisky list. Helvetica is a hidden whisky and cocktail bar off Howard Street, and Yzma's Elixir is a concoction of cardamom compote, casoni, rhubarb and rye gin, sparkling wine, soda water, and lemon juice.
Content Summary
- There is a wide variety of bars and clubs in Perth to suit any drinker's tastes.
- If that's the case, you don't need to go anywhere else; we've put together a list of the top ten destinations.
- In this post, we'll introduce you to each bar, highlight what sets it apart, and give you some background on the area.
- There is also a handy infographic at the end that summarises the ten bars and provides links to their websites.
- Enjoy yourself as you read about the most popular hangouts among the masses.
- The city of Perth is home to countless cafes, pubs, and bars, making it difficult to choose.
- You'll find a breakdown of some of Perth's top drinking establishments here, organised by the kind of drink you're in the mood for.
- No matter what you say, the aesthetic appeal of a bar is an important factor in determining whether or not it will become a preferred hangout in Perth.
- From hidden speakeasies to swanky rooftop bars, Perth has a thriving cocktail scene.
- Nonetheless, it has flourished since the small-bar revolution of the late aughts, with many bartenders proudly displaying bottles from Western Australian distillers.
- Going to some new cocktail bars in Perth and Fremantle could be a lot of fun.
- While WA is rightly celebrated for its world-class wine and craft beer, it should also be recognised for its extraordinary range of inventive cocktails and mocktails.
- A few excellent cocktail lounges are listed below for your consideration.
- In terms of cosy neighbourhood bars, King Somm is as good as it gets.
- When Europe beckoned, Si Paradiso answered with its own brand of retro Italian cool.
- An Italian version of Motel Mexicola.
- On Pakenham Street, between the historic structures, you'll find the brand-new The Republic of Fremantle distillery.
- After you've had a taste of the house specialties in a flight, peruse the extensive cocktail menu, which includes both classic drinks and modern twists on them.
- The bartenders at Foxtrot Unicorn are among the best in Australia, so it's only fair that they be included.
- These bartenders are making the best cocktails with the best atmosphere and the best cheese jaffles.
- You can get your hands on one of Perth's newest cocktail creations at this basement bar on St Georges Terrace, which features a team of gun bartenders.
- If you're familiar with the Perth bar scene or just have a good memory for bartenders, you might recognise owner Dimitri Rtshiladze.
- The creative minds behind Foxtrot Unicorn have brought us Nieuw Ruin, a wine bar with an extensive food menu and a wine list of 250+ bottles that has quickly become a favourite in Fremantle.
- The tropical, neon-lit interiors of Neon Palms scream "Miami Vice," making it feel like a true vacation destination without having to leave Perth.
- Signature cocktails at Perth's impressive rooftop bar are served in glass songbirds and feature local Western Australian spirits like The West Winds and SouWester gins, Illegal Tender rum, and native botanicals.
- Songbird's casual menu is ideal for watching the evening apertivo while the Ritz-signature Carlton's restaurant, Hearth, has been making headlines.
- The Mechanics Institute rooftop bar, which has won numerous awards, is discretely located along a laneway adorned with street art at the busy intersection of William Street and James Street in Northbridge.
- The landmark building pays homage to its past as a training facility for working men while firmly rooted in the present, attracting an active young clientele who come to try the ever-changing cocktail list.
- On Bartender Appreciation Day, it's important to recognise the hardworking staff members who create a relaxed and enjoyable environment.
- Most people associate Long Chim with David Thompson, the durian fruit, or the time they voted down the Chiang Mai larb (fools!).
- However, thanks in part to Thompson's appreciation for a fine libation, Long Chim has earned a stellar reputation over the years for its excellent cocktails.
- Over the years, Bathers Beach has become a popular destination for locals to reminisce.
- Bathers Beach House, a wine, beer, and cocktail bar in Fremantle near Fishing Boat Harbour, has recently opened for casual coffee, dining, and sundowners.
- If you're a cocktail connoisseur in Perth, you can't miss this bar in the lively State Buildings complex's basement courtyard, which has a Thai street food vibe.
- The best place to celebrate National Bartenders Day in Perth is at Perth's finest craft cocktail lounge.
- Relax at the bar for a while as you peruse the extensive list of mocktails and cocktails available.
- Take a look at the legendary cocktail recipes that have made it into the Hall of Fame.
- Located just south of St. Georges Terrace is the quaint community of Brookfield Place, home to another lovingly restored historic building.
- Yet another pub has opened in Perth, this one with a posh, retro vibe, located in Brookfield Place.
- Bobèche adopts a carnival atmosphere from the 19th century, complete with well-dressed and skilled bartenders.
- The decor at Wolf Lane, a trendy cocktail lounge on Perth's King Street, is equal parts cosy, shabby chic and clever, slightly eerie fairytale.
- There's a quiet alley called Wolf Lane that might make you question your sanity.
- Then, add to the ambience with some cocktails and unique bar snacks served in Grandma May's teapots.
- Bar food doesn't get much better than flavorful meatballs, and Fremantle, Mount Lawley, and Leederville all have cocktail bars serving them.
- There is a long list of classic cocktails that the bartenders are happy to make for you, and you can get two of them for just $17.
- Perth's plazas, courtyards, and alleys are becoming more interconnected, which has led to an increase in foot traffic and the success of the city's small bars.
- Halford Bar can be found towards Hay Street in the revitalised Cathedral Square, directly beneath the luxurious OMO The Treasury hotel.
- Visit Halford's, where helpful staff will instruct you in the ways of good whisky.
- This low-light lounge is one of the best cocktail bars in Perth, known for its extensive whisky list.
- Relax with a Halford Martini, a specialty cocktail that features apricot brandy, gin, anchovy olives, and lillet blanc.
- Mocktails can be turned into cocktails by adding the one alcoholic ingredient specified on the menu.
- Helvetica Secluded whisky and cocktail bar Helvetica can be found down a graffiti-covered alley off Howard Street, not far from Elizabeth Quay.
- On Fridays, stop by this chill bar for a drink.