Home to an eccentric community of artists, musicians, surfers and creatives, with a collection of quirky and colourful small bars lining its streets, a night out in Fremantle is never dull. Over the past few decades, a host of smaller boutique bars have opened catering to those looking for somewhere a little more cosy. Owing to the historic nature of the port city, many of these are housed in stunning heritage buildings with unique backstories of their own.
Gimlet
Gimlet
The warders' cottages in Fremantle once housed the prison wardens and their families when convicts came from Britain, but are now home to the gorgeous Gimlet small bar. With a courtyard and cosy indoor seating, Gimlet is the perfect place to warm up this winter, with a new and improved cocktail menu and small bites available. Open from 8am for barista coffee until late, Gimlet offers an extensive variety of gins, making for an unrivalled gin and tonic experience. Try their namesake cocktail, the gimlet, or ask the friendly bar staff for a recommendation for a winter warmer as the cold weather rolls in.
Darling Darling
Darling Darling
Darling Darling is a nautical-themed bar located in the long-standing Sadlier and Co. building on Henry Street. Revamped by world-renowned bar designer Ashley Sutton, Darling Darling has an intimate setting that represents Fremantle in 1860 when seafarers would come for a tipple. An old-style bar with an array of gin, rum, craft beer, oak-soaked Negronis and Old Fashioneds on offer, sit back and relax at a timber-made table lit with candles. It’s a walk-in-bar only, so be sure to get there early. Find Darling Darling open from 4pm to late on weekdays, and 12pm to late on Fridays and weekends.
Percy Flint
Percy Flint
Named after the 1930’s original owner, Percy Flint is a small South Fremantle bar with an emphasis on cocktails, wine and craft beer. Amongst their range of local and international wines, they have a small selection of alternative, funky wines, should you be daring enough to try something new. You can enjoy your drink while getting cosy in one of their vintage armchairs, and on cooler nights, stay toasty by their rustic fireplace. Open from 12pm to 12am from Wednesday to Sunday, from 3pm on Mondays, and closed on Tuesdays.
Whisper Wine Bar
Whisper Wine Bar
Walking into the foyer at Whisper Wine Bar feels like you’ve just arrived in France. Based on a mews in Provence, the 19th Century limestone flour mill has been transformed to resemble a classy French-inspired townhouse. With an extensive selection of fine wines, cocktails and delicious finger food, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Be sure to try their indulgent French cheeses to pair with your wine – the cheese fondue is to die for! If you’re lucky there will be a free seat out on the balcony where you can watch the port city nightlife go by. Its old-fashioned feel makes for a great small bar for a romantic date night, if you’re looking for ideas! open from 12pm to late, Friday to Sunday.
Mrs Browns Bar
Mrs Brown Bar
Located on Queen Victoria Street, Mrs Brown Bar is a retro-chic wine bar neighbouring Mojo’s Bar, one of Fremantle’s most iconic live music venues. It’s a great place to enjoy a few drinks in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere before heading off to catch a gig at Mojo’s. The bar’s design is split into a lounge area featuring a fireplace, and a petite courtyard decked out with greenery. Don’t forget to take advantage of their relationship with Flipside Burgers next door and eat your burger at the bar. Open from 4:30pm to 10pm Monday to Thursday, and 12pm until late during the weekend.
Young George
Young George
Winning the Australian Good Food Guide (AGFG) Chef Hat Award in 2020, Young George is an award-winning neighbourhood bar and restaurant on George Street. Situated in a charming white heritage building on East Fremantle’s cosiest street, expect a lively atmosphere with relaxed tunes and delicious share plates inspired by cuisines from around the world. It’s an ideal place to start your night out. Visit Young George, open from 11:30 until late from Wednesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.