Global Major Cities Guide

A variety of watering holes ranging from trendy cocktail bars to traditional Aussie pubs, often serving food as well.

Sections

Comprehensive Guide to Bars and Pubs in Perth, Australia

Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, boasts a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. From trendy rooftop bars to cozy pubs with live music, the city offers something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate Perth’s bar and pub culture, including popular venues, drink and food options, pricing, opening times, and local customs.

Popular Areas for Nightlife in Perth

Northbridge
- The heart of Perth’s nightlife, Northbridge is packed with bars, pubs, and clubs. It’s a lively area with a mix of casual and upscale venues.
- Notable Streets: James Street, William Street, and Lake Street.
Perth CBD (Central Business District)
- The CBD is home to sophisticated rooftop bars, hidden laneway venues, and stylish pubs. It’s perfect for after-work drinks or a night out with friends.
Leederville
- A trendy suburb just outside the city, Leederville is known for its laid-back vibe, craft beer bars, and quirky pubs.
Fremantle (Freo)
- Located about 30 minutes from Perth, Fremantle offers a more relaxed, bohemian nightlife scene with historic pubs and waterfront bars.
Subiaco
- A quieter but classy area with a mix of wine bars, gastropubs, and cocktail lounges.

Popular Bars and Pubs in Perth

Here are some must-visit venues:

1. The Aviary (Perth CBD)

Type: Rooftop bar with a tropical vibe.
Drinks: Signature cocktails, craft beers, and wines.
Food: Share plates, pizzas, and modern Australian dishes.
Cost: Cocktails start at AUD 18; food ranges from AUD 15–30.
Opening Times: Mon–Thu (11:30 AM–late), Fri–Sat (11:30 AM–1 AM), Sun (11:30 AM–10 PM).

2. The Standard (Northbridge)

Type: Trendy bar with a garden courtyard.
Drinks: Local wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails.
Food: Modern Australian cuisine with small and large plates.
Cost: Mains around AUD 25–35; drinks AUD 10–20.
Opening Times: Mon–Thu (4 PM–late), Fri–Sun (12 PM–late).

3. Mechanics Institute (Northbridge)

Type: Hidden rooftop bar with a casual vibe.
Drinks: Craft beers, boutique wines, and classic cocktails.
Food: Burgers from the adjacent Flipside Burger Bar.
Cost: Burgers AUD 15–20; drinks AUD 8–18.
Opening Times: Mon–Thu (4 PM–12 AM), Fri–Sat (12 PM–12 AM), Sun (12 PM–10 PM).

4. Little Creatures Brewery (Fremantle)

Type: Iconic brewery with a waterfront location.
Drinks: House-brewed beers, cider, and wine.
Food: Woodfired pizzas, seafood, and pub classics.
Cost: Beers AUD 10–12; food AUD 15–30.
Opening Times: Daily (10 AM–late).

5. The Windsor Hotel (South Perth)

Type: Historic pub with a modern beer garden.
Drinks: Local and international beers, wines, and cocktails.
Food: Pub classics, steaks, and seafood.
Cost: Mains AUD 20–40; drinks AUD 8–15.
Opening Times: Daily (11 AM–late).

6. The Bird (Northbridge)

Type: Intimate bar with live music and a hipster vibe.
Drinks: Craft beers, wines, and cocktails.
Food: Light snacks and food trucks on occasion.
Cost: Drinks AUD 8–15.
Opening Times: Mon–Thu (5 PM–12 AM), Fri–Sat (5 PM–2 AM), Sun (5 PM–12 AM).

Types of Drinks Served

Craft Beer: Perth has a strong craft beer culture, with many bars offering local brews from breweries like Little Creatures, Feral Brewing Co., and Gage Roads.
Wine: Western Australia is famous for its wine regions (e.g., Margaret River), so expect excellent local wines.
Cocktails: Many bars serve creative cocktails featuring Australian ingredients like native botanicals.
Spirits: Gin and whiskey are particularly popular, with some bars offering locally distilled options.

Food Options

Many bars and pubs in Perth serve food, ranging from light snacks to full meals.
Gastropubs: Offer elevated pub food, such as gourmet burgers, steaks, and seafood.
Share Plates: Common in trendy bars, featuring items like arancini, sliders, and charcuterie boards.
Food Trucks: Some venues, especially in Northbridge, host food trucks for a casual dining experience.

Average Costs

Beer: AUD 8–12 for a pint.
Wine: AUD 8–15 per glass.
Cocktails: AUD 15–25.
Food: AUD 15–40, depending on the venue and dish.

Opening Times

Most bars and pubs open in the late afternoon (around 4 PM) and close by midnight or 1 AM on weekdays.
On weekends, venues often stay open until 2–3 AM.
Note: Licensing laws in Perth are strict, so some venues may stop serving alcohol 30 minutes before closing.

Local Customs and Etiquette

Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5–10%) is appreciated for excellent service.
Dress Code:
- Casual attire is acceptable in most pubs.
- Trendier bars may require smart-casual clothing (e.g., no flip-flops or singlets).
Ordering Drinks:
- Drinks are typically ordered and paid for at the bar.
- It’s common to take turns buying rounds if you’re with a group.
ID Requirements:
- Carry a valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license, or proof of age card) as venues strictly enforce age restrictions (18+).
Smoking: Smoking is prohibited indoors and only allowed in designated outdoor areas.
Noise Levels: While Australians are generally laid-back, excessive rowdiness may not be tolerated, especially in more upscale venues.

Tips for Navigating Perth’s Pub Culture

Plan Ahead: Some popular venues, especially rooftop bars, can get crowded. Arrive early or make a reservation if possible.
Public Transport: Use buses, trains, or rideshare services (e.g., Uber, Ola) to get around safely. Night buses operate on weekends.
Drink Responsibly: Australia has strict laws regarding public intoxication and drink driving. Stick to the legal limit if driving.
Explore Local Brews: Don’t miss the chance to try Western Australian craft beers and wines.
Happy Hours: Many bars offer discounted drinks during happy hours (usually 4–6 PM), so take advantage of these deals.

Final Thoughts

Perth’s bar and pub scene is a reflection of its laid-back yet sophisticated culture. Whether you’re looking for a casual pint, a fine wine, or a creative cocktail, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste. By following the tips and recommendations above, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy Perth’s vibrant nightlife like a local. Cheers!