Although many of Perth's historic buildings have unfortunately given way to modern structures over the years, there are still a scattering of heritage buildings to be explored in our city, many of which are now home to quaint restaurants and cosy bars. We’ve scouted some of Perth’s best restaurants with heritage charm dating back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Samson’s Paddock - Mosman Park
Housed in a stunning heritage building built in the 1880s, Samson’s Paddock was named after early Swan River Colony settler, Lionel Samson, whose farm became a popular stop for horsemen and their steeds. While you’ll no longer find horses, you can enjoy a seasonal share menu centered around single paddock produce and an extensive whisky list with over 100 single origin and blend whiskies.
The Albion - Cottesloe
The award for the restaurant with the most fireplaces in this list goes to the heritage-listed Albion Hotel. Established in 1890, the Albion was a stopover point for travellers riding on horseback up from Fremantle to Perth. Boasting an impressive ten fireplaces, Tiffany chandeliers, historic ceiling fans from New Orleans and a menu filled with pub grub staples, The Albion is sure to please and keep you warm during the chillier winter nights, so make a reservation for your next winter meal here.
The Windsor Hotel - South Perth
Owned by third-generation publican, Geoffrey Ogden, the heritage-listed Windsor Hotel is an institution for South Perth locals. The Ogden family have been involved in the hospitality scene in WA for many decades, going back through the 50s to the 70s, when Bernie Ogden owned 70 pubs across the state. The Windsor Hotel itself was designed in the Federation Filigree style, and is a true representation of the Aussie pub tradition; a two-storey hotel with verandas on a busy street corner.
Boasting a restaurant, three bars and a brewery, The Windsor offers classic pub meals, live sports viewing and, of course, fireplaces to cosy up beside. Share a pizza with friends by the fire at Mends St Bar or enjoy toasty pre-dinner drinks at the Yacht Club before devouring a hearty meal at the Charthouse restaurant. For more details, you can check out the Windsor Hotel here.
Julio’s - West Perth
Formerly the residence of one of Perth’s menswear moguls, JP Walsh, Julio’s is an Italian restaurant with heritage charm that harkens back to 1902, offering house-made pasta and a Cicchetti menu (the Venetian’s take on aperitivo). Serving up small plates ideal for sharing, Julio’s is the perfect place to share a meal with friends. But, with Cicchetti like the crispy deep-fried lasagna croquette bites with creamy parmesan on the menu, sharing may be off the cards.
Percy Flint - South Fremantle
Specialising in Instagrammable cocktails and the very best in craft beer, this small bar in South Freo is named after the original owner, Percy Flint, who owned the bar back in the 1930s. Situated on the corner of South Terrace and Ada Street, this former corner shop turned bar has a cosy fireplace for those cool nights and a beer garden for when summer returns. They are open Tuesday to Wednesday, 3pm to 12am and from Thursday to Sunday, 12pm to 12am.
The Victoria Park Hotel - Victoria Park
Located on Albany Highway, The Victoria Park Hotel has been serving pints and pub food since 1927. Blending modern architecture with Federation-style finishes, this classic Australian pub offers a cosy feel as well as a wide range of sports screened throughout the venue. Perfect for family dinners or a catch up with friends, the Bistro offers affordable meals and large fruity cocktails to share. You can make a booking here.