Written by Simon on 28/04/2025

Perth Food Journey: 10 Must-Visit Restaurants and Foods

Food

Perth, a dazzling gem on the west coast of Australia, is not only known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and pleasant climate but also for its rich and diverse food culture. With its geographical advantages and multicultural influences, Perth offers a food experience like no other. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, a meat lover, or someone who enjoys exploring different cultural cuisines, the dining scene in Perth promises to deliver an unmatched culinary delight.

Perth’s cuisine is influenced by various cultures, especially traditional ingredients and cooking methods from the indigenous people, blended with Mediterranean, Asian, and other global flavors. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood, local barbecue specialties, and desserts rooted in the local culture. With rich marine resources, the seafood options in Perth are abundant, from fresh oysters to succulent lobsters and crabs, each dish showcasing the natural flavors of the ocean.

In addition, local produce and farm products significantly impact the dining culture in Perth. From organic vegetables grown locally to a variety of nuts and seafood from the surrounding waters, every ingredient reflects the unique natural conditions of Western Australia. Perth’s dining industry focuses on the origin of the ingredients, with many restaurants adjusting their menus according to the season and local availability to ensure the freshest and best taste.

Perth offers a wide variety of dining options, from simple street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, from nostalgic local eateries to unique international cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for a family meal or craving something more adventurous, Perth has it all. Here, dining is not just about filling your stomach—it’s an experience that allows you to enjoy life and explore cultures. You can enjoy exquisite modern Australian dishes in city center restaurants or fresh seafood at open-air eateries by the beach, savoring the flavors while taking in the stunning views.

Walking through the streets, restaurants, and markets of Perth, you’ll discover a plethora of must-try dishes. Whether you’re a food lover or a first-time visitor, there’s a delightful culinary experience waiting for you.

1. Wildflower – Top-tier Dining with Local Western Australian Flavors

Wildflower is one of Perth’s top-tier restaurants, offering modern Australian dishes made with local Western Australian ingredients. Located in the heart of Perth, the restaurant uses fresh, seasonal produce combined with innovative cooking techniques to present sophisticated and creative cuisine. The menu changes with the seasons, allowing each dish to reflect the natural beauty of Western Australia. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood, tender meats, and a variety of native plant-based ingredients—a culinary journey worth experiencing.

Recommended Dishes:

• Western Australian Cod: Fresh, local cod paired with seasonal vegetables, offering a clean and refreshing flavor.
• Beef Short Ribs: Slow-braised beef ribs with rich, flavorful sauce—tender and succulent.

2. Garum – A Perfect Blend of Roman Flavors and Modern Australian Cuisine

Located in downtown Perth, Garum combines ancient Roman flavors with modern Australian culinary traditions. Named after the Roman sauce “Garum,” made from fermented fish guts, the restaurant emphasizes Mediterranean flavors, using the freshest local ingredients from Western Australia and giving them a new twist through innovative cooking methods.

Recommended Dishes:

• Porchetta: Slow-roasted suckling pig with crispy skin and tender meat, seasoned with unique spices and sauces.
• Lamb Salad: Tender lamb from Western Australia, fresh vegetables, and homemade dressing—a refreshing and flavorful combination.

3. The Shorehouse – Delicious Seafood by the Beach

Situated at Cottesloe Beach, The Shorehouse offers a delightful mix of Western Australian seafood and modern Australian flavors. While enjoying the fresh seafood, you can also take in the stunning beach views. Known for its fresh oysters, lobsters, crabs, and more, it is a seafood lover’s paradise.

Recommended Dishes:

• Oysters: Fresh Western Australian oysters with a clean and delicate taste, one of The Shorehouse’s signature dishes.
• Grilled Lobster: Lobster grilled simply to preserve its natural flavors, rich in taste and aroma.

4. Petition Kitchen – Perth’s Most Creative Modern Australian Restaurant

Petition Kitchen is a highly creative modern Australian restaurant focusing on locally sourced organic ingredients. Featuring an open kitchen, guests can watch the chefs in action while enjoying the exquisite food. The restaurant offers a menu that highlights seasonality and local produce, making it suitable for various tastes.

Recommended Dishes:

• Minted Lamb Cutlets: Tender lamb from Western Australia with homemade mint sauce—rich and refreshing.
• Seasonal Vegetable Salad: Fresh, organic local vegetables—a perfect accompaniment to the main dishes.

5. Long Chim – Experience Southeast Asian Flavors

Long Chim offers authentic Southeast Asian dishes located in Elizabeth Quay, in the heart of Perth. The name “Long Chim” comes from Thai, meaning “come and try.” The restaurant serves traditional dishes from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and other regions, with a modern twist to provide a fresh dining experience.

Recommended Dishes:

• Green Curry: A rich and aromatic Thai green curry served with chicken or seafood.
• Vietnamese Sashimi: Fresh sashimi served with tangy Vietnamese dipping sauce, refreshing and appetizing.

6. Mister Walker – A Beachside Restaurant with a Scenic View

Mister Walker, located in South Perth, offers modern design and an expansive outdoor platform where guests can enjoy their meals while admiring the beautiful Swan River views. The restaurant emphasizes local produce, offering refined Australian dishes and creative drinks.

Recommended Dishes:

• Australian Beef Steak: Premium Australian beef steak, tender and flavorful, served with a signature sauce.
• Cod and Chips: A classic Australian seafood dish—crispy battered cod served with golden fries.

7. La Cholita – Authentic Mexican Flavors

La Cholita in Perth’s Northbridge district serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a lively, vibrant atmosphere—perfect for dining with friends. The restaurant offers everything from fresh tortillas to avocado salads, capturing the essence of Mexican flavors.

Recommended Dishes:

• Tacos: Fresh corn tortillas filled with a variety of meats or vegetarian options—rich and flavorful.
• Mexican Beef Stew: Hearty beef stew with rich spices, perfect for enjoying on a cold night.

8. The Aviary – Rooftop Bar and Dining Experience

The Aviary is a rooftop bar in the city center offering creative dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The rooftop terrace provides a 360-degree view of the city, making it the perfect spot to enjoy both food and drinks.

Recommended Dishes:

• Avocado Toast: A simple but delicious breakfast dish with fresh avocado, eggs, and toast—healthy and tasty.
• Tapas: A variety of local Western Australian small bites, perfect for sharing with friends.

9. Balthazar – High-End Dining Experience

Balthazar is one of Perth’s most renowned fine-dining restaurants, offering sophisticated modern Australian cuisine. With an elegant ambiance and excellent service, it’s an ideal place for celebrating special occasions. The restaurant’s dishes are refined and innovative, emphasizing the use of fresh local ingredients.

Recommended Dishes:

• Australian Lobster: Fresh Western Australian lobster, prepared with culinary finesse to bring out its natural flavors.
• Roast Lamb Shoulder: Richly flavored roast lamb shoulder, paired with seasonal vegetables and sauce—a perfect representation of Australian cuisine.

10. The Flour Factory – A Fusion of Craft Beer and Dining

Located in the heart of Perth, The Flour Factory blends craft beer with a fine dining experience. The restaurant offers a wide selection of locally brewed beers, paired with carefully crafted dishes to create a unique dining experience.

Recommended Dishes:

• Roast Pork Shoulder: Crispy pork shoulder paired with rich sauces—a mouthwatering dish.
• Craft Beer: A variety of local craft beers to complement your meal for the perfect dining experience.

5 Must-Try Australian Snacks in Perth:

1. Vegemite – A quintessential Australian breakfast spread made from yeast extract, usually served with butter on toasted bread.
2. Meat Pie – A traditional Aussie fast food, usually made with tender meat, gravy, and a flaky pastry shell—easy to carry and delicious.
3. Barbecue – Australian barbecue culture is deeply embedded in local life, whether at a park BBQ or a family gathering, it’s a social way to enjoy food.
4. Pavlova – A famous dessert with a crispy meringue shell and soft center, topped with fresh fruit—an essential treat at Australian celebrations.
5. Seafood – Due to its coastal location, Perth boasts an abundance of seafood, from lobster and crab to oysters, each offering rich and fresh flavors.

Perth’s food journey offers endless possibilities, ranging from traditional Australian snacks to international flavors, creating a truly diverse and delightful culinary experience. The city’s rich multicultural influences, coupled with its abundant local produce and fresh seafood, make it a haven for food enthusiasts. With its unique blend of flavors from various cultures—Mediterranean, Asian, and indigenous Australian—the culinary scene in Perth is a reflection of the city’s vibrant character and welcoming spirit.

From the bustling streets of Northbridge to the scenic waterfront dining spots in South Perth, you can find a wide range of options, whether you’re in the mood for casual bites or fine dining. Perth’s local food scene thrives on sustainability, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients directly from local farmers, fishermen, and artisans. As a result, every dish offers a true taste of the region, with fresh, seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce taking center stage.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in a classic Australian meat pie or seeking a more adventurous gastronomic experience with Southeast Asian or Mediterranean cuisine, Perth caters to all tastes. For first-time visitors, the diverse dining venues provide a perfect way to explore the city’s culture, with food being a key part of the experience. Perth’s dining spots are not only places to enjoy delicious food but also to immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, making your travel experience not just memorable but also a feast for your senses.