Sometimes all you crave is a fantastic meal in a fuss free setting. Keep this guide in your back pocket when in Perth—whether you’re catching up with friends, planning a family dinner without the formality, or just looking for a super cash bite to eat, Now Book It has you covered.
Here are our top casual dining eateries that serve good food, great times—white tablecloth optional.
1. Bivouac Canteen & Bar
Pronounced biv-a-whack, this small but punchy restaurant lends itself to the name Bivouac, a temporary campsite where soldiers rest and recuperate. This bustling canteen that offers refuge to its hungry diners with a menu that spells Eastern-inspired share plates, fine wines and cheeky cocktails.
From lamb chops with stuffed piquillo, smoky eggplant and harissa yogurt to sweet corn and raisin pudding, it’s a real treat. Pull in, rest up or let loose.
Location: 198 William St, Northbridge WA 6003
Hours: Tuesday to Wednesday, 5 – 9pm;
Thursday & Sunday 12 – 9pm, Friday & Saturday 12 – 10pm
2. Bertie Wine Bar
This neighbourhood wine bar has all the marks of a good haunt, from a strong by-the-glass list to stellar cocktails and a British-inspired menu of comfort food. Come thirsty, and stay to graze on the irresistible snacks that ranges from toulouse sausage to sticky date ice cream sandwiches.
Now Book It tip: Book a table on Friday for a tasty $50 two-course menu with a glass of wine or beer, or shuffle in on slow weekends for the long lunch.
Location: 77 Old Perth Rd, Bassendean
Hours: Wednesday to Thursday 4 – 10pm
Friday & Saturday 12 – 11pm
Sunday 12 – 9pm
3. Miss Chow's South Perth
West Aussies are no strangers to Miss Chow’s. With venues across the state from Claremont to Margaret River, each as good than the last, the ‘dumpling queen’ Jacquie Chan, has transformed her family’s culinary heritage into one of Perth’s favourite eateries.
You’re here for the handmade dumplings — all shapes and forms that leads with the fresh produce and shines with intricate skills. That doesn’t mean you should look past other entries on this modern Asian menu, from silky scallops to the explosive bang bang chicken. Bring an entourage to share this meal with.
Location: The Echelon, 39 Mends St, South Perth
Hours: Monday to Thursday 5 – 9pm
Friday to Saturday 12 – 10pm
Sunday 12 – 9pm
4. Brika
Set on the perimeters of Northbridge, Brika is the meze bar that feeds diners a wonderfully hearty array of fried saganaki, slow-cooked lamb and Greek-style chargrilled meats, such as the octopus or pork belly. For peckish bites, the loukoumades (Greek doughnuts) and baklava are a dream, along with a fresh cuppa from the neat coffee window.
A nod to the local Mediterranean community that’s turned into a joint everyone can enjoy — we love this little slice of history in this no-frills all-day eatery.
Location: 3/177 Stirling St, Perth
Hours: Tuesday to Thursday 5 – 9pm
Friday to Saturday 11:30am – 2:30pm; 5 – 10pm
5. La Cholita
Who can argue with a laundry list of tequilas, mezcal, sangria, Spanish and South American beers and wines? At La Cholita, the graffiti on the wall is speckled between bottles of spirits, and the Mexican liveliness is all around. A simple, flavour-packed menu that slings tacos (beef brisket with salsa roja or Baja-style fish) and three cheese and jalapeno quesadilla—excellent late night fare.
The spicy Margarita Verde comes highly recommended, but you’re in good hands at the bar so don’t hesitate to ask for more recs.
Now Book It tip: Tables are limited so if you prefer not to shuffle into the window-side booths, book a spot ahead.
Location: Scolaro Building, 279 William St, Northbridge
Hours: Monday to Thursday 5 – 10pm
Friday to Saturday 12pm – 12am
Sunday 12 – 10pm
6. Yiamas
Another cool contemporary Greek on the list, this one comes to us from the crew behind Community Coffee Co and Vinotto Bar. Decked out in the soft touch of natural light and neutral tones, the indoor-outdoor space is simple, yet warm enough for you to feel like lingering a little longer.
For something to eat, the grilled meats are a must; make sure to catch a glimpse of the stunning kondosouvli (Greek marinated pork) slow cooked on a spit over charcoal. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. Start easy with the small plates while you wait—sizzling octopus, grilled haloumi, authentic Greek dips and warm pita bread, and keep the Yiamas spritz coming.
Location: 26 Denis St, Subiaco
Hours: Thursday to Monday 5 – 10pm
7. El Publico
Highgate’s favourite Mexican joint not only serves up fun cocina vibes, it’s also got a solid gluten-free menu that makes dining with the whole party a breeze. Street-style Mexican fare gets a modern treatment in this laidback space, so get ready to share loaded nachos, carne asada and birriadillas, among other flavour-packed favourites.
Now Book It tip: Happy Hour lasts from 12 to 6pm in here — that’s margaritas, cervezas, and cocktails for hours on end.
Location: 511 Beaufort St, Highgate
Hours: Wednesday and Thursday 5 – 10pm,
Friday to Saturday 12 – 11:30pm
Sunday 12 – 9pm
8. The Stables
This unique venue is set in one of Perth’s original horse stables from 1894, which is now the cosy, offbeat pub that’s all about seriously good food — no horsing around here. The cobblestone entrance leads to the restaurant space inside, with the city view on the deck if you prefer outdoor dining.
In the kitchen, Head Chef Ben Keal saddles the menu with all-day grazing options from black Angus beef pie to brisket sliders and the beautiful bar slings botanical cocktails worth a sip or two (we hear there’s a bottomless version)
Now Book It tip: If you fall in love with the stunning space, it’s also available —and very popular— as a wedding venue.
Location: Butterworth Buildings, 888 Hay St, Perth
Hours: Monday to Friday 8am – 12am
Saturday 11am – 12am
Hungry to fill your tables with fresh reservations? Book a demo today with Now Book It to learn how.
