Perth, Western Australia’s sun-drenched capital, is known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning coastal views, and an evolving food scene that embraces both modern innovation and local flavours. Whether you’re a Perth local or visiting for the first time, discovering the best restaurants in the city can elevate your experience.
From sophisticated fine dining venues to casual eateries with a creative twist, Perth has something to offer every palate. In this post, we’ve rounded up the top five restaurants in Perth, each selected based on exceptional reviews, ambiance, and the overall dining experience they offer.
1. Wildflower
Address:
1 Cathedral Avenue, Perth, WA 6000
Overview:
Wildflower is an award-winning restaurant located on the rooftop of the luxurious COMO The Treasury hotel. With its stunning views over Perth and the Swan River, the setting is as spectacular as the food. The restaurant’s menu is based on the indigenous ethos of “six seasons,” drawing inspiration from the seasonal changes in the Noongar calendar, which governs the timing of dishes and ingredients. The décor is minimalist yet elegant, with floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with natural light during the day and create a romantic atmosphere by night.
Wildflower’s cuisine is modern Australian with a heavy emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. The menu changes frequently to align with the seasons, offering dishes that highlight native ingredients such as bush spices, wild herbs, and seafood. Expect to see items like kangaroo, native berries, and Western Australian seafood featured in innovative ways. The fine dining experience here is elevated by the impeccable service, attention to detail, and the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best of Australian produce.
Why it is on this list:
Wildflower is included due to its unique approach to seasonal dining, emphasis on native ingredients, and breath taking views of Perth. With hundreds of glowing reviews praising its food, service, and ambiance, this restaurant consistently ranks as one of Perth’s finest dining destinations.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests frequently commend Wildflower for its unique and creative menu, which reflects the changing seasons and celebrates local produce. The stunning views of Perth’s skyline and the sophisticated yet relaxed setting are often highlighted as major selling points. Reviewers also appreciate the attentive service and the way the restaurant blends modern techniques with traditional ingredients.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners feel that the portion sizes could be more generous given the price, and a few mention that the menu’s adventurous nature might not appeal to everyone. There are occasional comments about the price point being high, particularly when ordering from the à la carte menu or the wine list.
2. Cooee
Address:
171-173 Mounts Bay Rd, Perth WA 6000
Overview:
Cooee is a contemporary riverside dining destination located in the beautifully restored Old Swan Brewery, offering guests both stunning views of the Swan River and a refined dining experience. The restaurant combines a relaxed, minimalist interior design with large windows that bathe the space in natural light and provide panoramic views of the river. Whether you’re enjoying a casual breakfast, lunch, or a sophisticated dinner, the atmosphere is both chic and inviting.
Cooee’s menu is inspired by modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Dishes range from expertly prepared seafood to prime cuts of meat, with a variety of innovative vegetarian options. The menu is designed to reflect the best of Western Australia’s produce, and each plate is meticulously crafted to balance flavours and textures.
The bar offers an extensive selection of Australian wines and expertly mixed cocktails, making it an excellent choice for those looking to relax by the river with a drink in hand. With its sleek design, impeccable service, and riverside views, Cooee offers a dining experience that is as visually appealing as it is satisfying for the palate.
Why it is on this list:
Cooee has earned its place on this list due to its prime location along the Swan River, outstanding modern Australian cuisine, and glowing reviews that consistently praise the restaurant for its service, ambiance, and food quality. It has quickly become one of Perth’s favourite spots for both casual and fine dining, particularly for those looking to enjoy a meal with beautiful waterfront views.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Reviewers frequently highlight Cooee’s stunning riverside location as one of its biggest selling points. Guests also rave about the freshness and quality of the ingredients, with many praising the perfectly cooked seafood and thoughtfully prepared dishes. The atmosphere is another frequently mentioned positive aspect, with diners appreciating the sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. The staff’s attentiveness and professionalism are also regularly highlighted, with many guests noting that the service adds to the overall enjoyable experience.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
While Cooee receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, some diners have commented on the high prices, particularly for certain menu items. A few guests have noted that portion sizes can be smaller than expected for the cost. Additionally, during peak times, the restaurant can become quite busy, leading to slightly slower service on occasion. However, these critiques are generally minor compared to the restaurant’s many positive attributes.
3. Long Chim
Address:
Corner of St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street, Basement Level, State Buildings, Perth, WA 6000
Overview:
Long Chim brings the vibrant street food of Thailand to the heart of Perth. Located in the historic State Buildings, this casual yet upscale restaurant combines the flavours of Bangkok’s bustling food markets with the sophistication of a fine dining venue. The decor features exposed brick, warm lighting, and colourful murals, creating a lively, urban atmosphere that’s perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. The open kitchen adds an element of excitement, allowing diners to watch the chefs in action as they prepare fragrant, spicy dishes.
The menu at Long Chim is inspired by the street food of Bangkok, with dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and som tam (papaya salad) taking centre stage. While the flavours are bold and authentic, the presentation is elevated, and the use of high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is a standout.
The drinks menu is equally impressive, featuring a selection of Thai-inspired cocktails, local craft beers, and a well-curated wine list. Whether you’re dining solo, with friends, or looking for a lively date spot, Long Chim delivers an unforgettable experience with a focus on bold, spicy flavours.
Why it is on this list:
Long Chim is included because of its exceptional ability to combine the authenticity of Thai street food with the elegance of a fine dining establishment. Its consistently high ratings and the vibrant dining experience it offers make it one of Perth’s most popular restaurants.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests frequently mention the bold, authentic flavours of the food, with many praising the restaurant’s ability to recreate the experience of Thai street food in an upscale setting. The lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and extensive cocktail menu are also commonly highlighted as reasons to visit.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners feel that the spice levels can be too intense for those not accustomed to Thai cuisine, and a few reviewers note that the restaurant can get noisy during peak hours. There are also occasional comments about the portion sizes being smaller than expected for the price.
4. Petition Kitchen
Address:
Corner of St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street, Perth, WA 6000
Overview:
Petition Kitchen is part of the State Buildings precinct and offers a casual, yet refined, dining experience with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s décor is modern and minimalist, with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it a popular spot for both breakfast and dinner. The open kitchen concept and communal tables add to the relaxed vibe, encouraging diners to enjoy their meal in a comfortable, social setting.
The menu at Petition Kitchen is a celebration of Western Australia’s finest produce, with dishes that are designed to be shared. The kitchen’s focus on simplicity allows the quality of the ingredients to shine, with dishes like slow-cooked meats, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables taking centre stage.
The drinks menu features an impressive selection of local wines and craft beers, making it the perfect accompaniment to the hearty, flavourful dishes on offer. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Petition Kitchen offers a relaxed but sophisticated dining experience in the heart of Perth.
Why it is on this list:
Petition Kitchen is included for its focus on local ingredients and its ability to deliver high-quality food in a casual, approachable setting. With numerous positive reviews praising its fresh, simple approach to dining, it’s a great option for those who want to experience the best of Western Australia’s culinary offerings.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Many reviewers appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, seasonal ingredients, with the food often described as flavourful and well-prepared. The casual, welcoming atmosphere is another highlight, with guests enjoying the laid-back vibe and attentive service.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners feel that the menu could benefit from more variety, particularly for vegetarians. A few reviewers also mention that while the food is delicious, the portion sizes can be small for the price.
5. Lulu La Delizia
Address:
5/97 Rokeby Road, Subiaco, WA 6008
Overview:
Lulu La Delizia is a hidden gem in the suburb of Subiaco, known for its handmade pasta and Italian-inspired dishes. The restaurant’s intimate setting, with its cosy décor and rustic charm, makes it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. The warm, inviting atmosphere is complemented by the attentive service, ensuring that every diner feels welcome and well taken care of.
The menu at Lulu La Delizia is centred around pasta, with each dish made fresh daily using traditional Italian techniques. Expect to find dishes like pappardelle with slow-cooked beef ragu, spaghetti with clams, and ricotta-stuffed tortellini, all prepared with a focus on simplicity and flavour.
The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine list, with a strong emphasis on Italian varietals, ensuring that each dish has the perfect pairing. Whether you’re a pasta lover or simply looking for an authentic Italian dining experience, Lulu La Delizia delivers on every front.
Why it is on this list:
Lulu La Delizia’s dedication to handmade pasta and its focus on delivering an authentic Italian dining experience make it a standout in Perth’s restaurant scene. Its consistently high ratings and loyal following speak to the quality of the food and the exceptional service.
Summary of Positive Reviews:
Guests frequently praise the quality of the pasta, with many noting that it’s some of the best they’ve had outside of Italy. The cosy, intimate atmosphere is another highlight, with diners appreciating the warm, welcoming vibe and the friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Summary of Negative Reviews:
Some diners feel that the restaurant’s small size can make it difficult to secure a table, particularly on weekends. A few reviewers have also mentioned that the menu is quite focused on pasta, which may not appeal to those looking for more variety in their meal.
Conclusion
Perth’s dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself, offering a range of culinary experiences that showcase the best of Western Australia’s produce. From the seasonal, indigenous-inspired menu at Wildflower to the authentic street food flavours at Long Chim, these five restaurants represent the pinnacle of Perth’s gastronomic offerings. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these top-rated restaurants are sure to provide an unforgettable dining experience.