If like us, you’re a sucker for a good pink cafe and next-level brekkie bites, chances are you’re already a fan of Sincheol Kang’s work—the Korean traveller, turned cafe owner behind Viaje. He’s come a long way since throwing a dart at a world map in Seoul and landing in WA. In a few short years, Kang’s built Viaje into a bustling community hub known for its impeccable service and always delicious brunch plates in not one, but two separate locations in Perth.
After deciding to sell the South Perth Viaje location, though, he’s ready to bring a whole new vision to life. As of this weekend, Viaje Mount Lawley will be transformed into Cheol’s—a cafe by day and cool little Korean-style wine bar by night (the first of its kind in Perth) serving approachable spins on Korean faves alongside a cracking lineup of good booze.
Cheol’s is a play on Kang’s name and the rebrand is a way for him to truly step into his Korean identity. When Kang first moved over he felt like he needed to adopt an English name (Wayne) to fit into the Aussie way of life. Fast forward seven years though, and he’s met his now wife, Sallina—who was actually one of his first ever Viaje customers (talk about a meet cute) and now helps out with Cheol's—and is putting down real roots here. For Kang, he feels like it’s finally time to bridge the gap between his Korean heritage and new home in Perth.
You’ll see that reflected across the menu too. Together with Korean Chef Johnny Kim, they’ve developed a flavour-packed menu loaded with popular Korean street eats that still feel familiar even if you’ve never ventured into Korean eats. Think lamb and beef galbi, a well-loved Korean staple and play on steak and potatoes. Or their take on yukhoe (raw beef), which can be likened to a beef tartare, with stracciatella and Korean spices. Plus, other booze-friendly bites like corn cheese spring rolls, Korean spicy pork quesadillas, tteokkochi (skewered fried rice cake) and bibim mandoo (Korean potsticker salad).
The aim is to introduce people to more of Korea’s vibrant food culture, without pushing them completely out of their comfort zone. We say dive right in and try something you’ve never heard of, though. It’s all part of the experience.
You’ll find plenty of delish drinks to wash it all down while you soak up the intimate laneway bar atmosphere. From Korean rice wine with Honey Makgeolli (a TikTok fave) to local wines, there’s plenty to keep you sipping all night.
Cheol’s Wine Bar officially opens this Friday 4 August from 5.30 pm to 10pm Wednesday to Sunday, with your usual breakfast faves and coffee still available by day. Email annyeong@cheols.org for bookings or drop by this weekend.
Keep the Korean vibes going at Perth's best Korean BBQ joints.
Image credit: Elle Borgward and supplied