WHERE TO EAT
Core Cider House
Spectacular views of the surrounding orchards provide a stunning backdrop for an afternoon or evening spent eating and sampling locally brewed cider. The food here is as good as, if not better than, plenty of the popular restaurants in Perth. TIP Try the mulled cider during colder months (and grab a blanket from inside if you're a cold). (08) 9293 7583, corecider.com.au.
Le Croissant du Moulin
A visit to this little cafe for a bowl of coffee is a must-do, either on your way to Kalamunda or once you've completed the Zig Zag Scenic Drive. The interior is
a little simple but, boy, do the exquisite pastries make
up for it. NOTE These aren't Perth prices; a regular
coffee is just $3.50, and it's $5 for a bowl (and by bowl they mean HUGE mug). (08) 9293 4345.
The Cavern
The secret of the Perth Hills... great tapas! There's a plethora of tapas options, and there's a special gluten free menu too. If you plan your visit for a Sunday arvo you'll catch live music from 4pm. Make sure you book. (08) 9293 3337.
Village Pizza Kitchen
This joint isn't fancy but the kids will love it. There are menu items like the Spongebob Pizza and The Monster Truck Pizza, but don't let that put you off – they churn out some seriously tasty stuff. Don't go too hard too early; you'll need room for the dessert pizzas. (08) 9291 4444.
SCOOP PICK Brookside Vineyard & the Vineyard Kitchen
This quaint boutique vineyard could be straight out of Under the Tuscan Sun. No kidding – there's even a table with chairs sitting in the green hillside (waiting for a lady in a white dress, of course). Although it's the smallest vineyard in the region, the wine doesn't miss a beat (try the Petit Verdot and the Methode Champenoise). The rustic restaurant The Vineyard Kitchen turns out country-style meals with a modern touch, and the menu makes the most of the fresh produce from the onsite vegie patch. Booking is a must; if it's shaping up to be a sunny day, opt to eat outside.