When was the last time you ventured a short 7km of Perth/Boorloo’s CBD to Bayswater? Or continued on just a little bit further to Bassendean? If it’s been a while, you’re going to be in for a treat. In recent years, a flock of new wine bars, restaurants and pubs have joined the neighbourhood favourites, making the vibrant north-east area a genuine drinking and dining destination.
For all of you Bassendean beginners, those new to the Bayswater area or locals wanting to get acquainted with the many watering holes and food stops in the neighbourhood, this one’s for you. Here’s our top picks of the best bars and restaurants in Bayswater, Bassendean and surrounding areas.
Bertie
77 Old Perth Rd, Bassendean WA 6054
Image credit: Bertie | Instagram
Bassendean isn’t especially known for its wine bars, but the oh-so-charming Bertie is certainly putting it on the map. Unsurprisingly, with widely respected mixologist James Connolly at the helm, the drinks list shines at this neighbourhood wine bar, with an expertly curated 120-strong wine list of highly quaffable drops and a tighter selection of bespoke cocktails. From the kitchen, expect an ever-changing menu of elevated British-inspired fare, including Bertie’s famous scotch eggs. Delish.
Twin Flame
395 Guildford Rd, Bayswater WA 6053
While Porkies was for the carnivores, Twin Flame is for the vegans. If you don’t eat meat or are just chasing a big veggie injection, follow the strong aromas to Guildford Road for an Indian feast. On your first visit toTwin Flame, come hungry and order the Unlimited Thali, featuring bottomless portions of up to 20 different dishes. There’s fiery curries, fluffy Khaman dhokla, fresh roti, authentic condiments and more, all using traditional recipes with only the freshest ingredients.
King Somm
13 King William St, Bayswater WA 6053
Image credit: King Somm | Instagram
Another buzzing wine bar in the north-east, King Somm is Baywater’s top-notch bar and bottleshop. It’s the sort of place you can sit at for hours on end, making your way through the pizza menu and guzzling whatever the gun bartenders are shaking, stirring and pouring. As the name suggests, King Somm’s curated wine list is the star of the show, with a solid number of drops from local vineyards and international producers to suit all preferences and palates.
Old Lira
78/80 Old Perth Rd, Bassendean WA 6054
Who knew some of Perth’s best pizzas were coming out of Bassendean?! Since it opened in 2013, Old Lira has been the go-to pizza joint for locals and destination diners alike. The freshly-made Roman-style pizzas are made on sourdough bases, creating an easily-digestible, low-gluten, thin-to-medium pizza with a distinct crispy crunch. The toppings are simple, using quality produce full of flavour. Pick a balmy night to carb load in the al fresco dining space and settle in with a BYO bottle of wine.
Porkies Bar-B-Que
208 Railway Parade, Bayswater WA 6053
Image credit: Porkies Bar-B-Que | Facebook
If you’ve got a hankering for real-deal American BBQ, look no further than Porkies. Smokey, saucy, salty and sticky, Porkies’ fall-off-the-bone meats are legendary in Bayswater and beyond. It’s a no-frills restaurant with just the right amount of charm. Order the ‘Sampler’ for a little bit of everything (chicken breast, 1/2 rack pork ribs, pulled pork, brisket, slaw and three sides) and be prepared to get greasy.
The Bassendean Hotel
25 Old Perth Road Bassendean WA 6054
After two years (and a whopping $7 million), The Bassendean Hotel reopened late last year boasting a sports bar, a speakeasy, family and dog friendly courtyard, expansive balcony, cosy lounges, saloon bars and more. Affectionately known as ‘the Basso’ to locals, it’s a little slice of history on Old Perth Road, with many of the original features, charm and character from the 1930s build carefully restored and highlighted. Expect all of the usual pub classics on the menu at this new-look megapub, including woodfired pizzas, a dedicated kids menu, and a huge range of tap poured beers.
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Main image credit: King Somm | Instagram