While we learn from a young age not to judge a book by its cover it continues to be a lesson that carries through our lives.
Ironically, it’s something I’m constantly reminded of in my monthly book club. And by book, I mean wine with a side of book talk club.
Nevertheless, the books that aren’t instantly appealing are often the most addictive.
The same all too often goes for cafes and restaurants. If it looks a bit daggy or tired from the outside, we’re quick to judge its insides.
Atlas Food and Coffee in West Perth is one of these spots.
It’s in the slightly awkward and drab pocket of West Perth that is mainly commercial buildings, some ageing apartments and some ever-changing cafes to service the area. A friend, who lived in the area, admitted they’d always overlooked it and had never been in.
For those who have tried it though, will know — you guessed it — don’t make assumptions.
It’s been a spot I’ve been to plenty of times over the years, have never had a bad meal, and have always been able to jag a park out the front.
The all-day menu has nine dishes, as well as daily specials, with some Asian influences trickling through. A kimchi baked egg fish, togarashi with the beef brisket benedict and a miso butter with the manchego omelette.
For anyone who is also stuck on the food algorithm on TikTok will know saucy noodles are currently all the rage.
If you too have been daydreaming about them, then the shredded chicken soba noodle ($20) at Atlas will also be a dream come true. While each mouthful is coated with the spicy tahini dressing, each bite also feels unexpected, with pops of edamame, cashews and corn as well as a good drizzle of chilli oil that certainly makes itself known.
When the morning bruschetta ($18.50) arrived it ever so slightly reminded me of a pub side salad. Again, book cover etc etc. The salad was dressed with a delicious apple balsamic, the slices of red onion were pickled and mixed with the perfectly poached egg, crunchy pistachio, ciabatta and feta — it was a tasty dish.
The food came out quickly, and was served with a smile.
So whether it’s trying the cafe you’ve always overlooked or reading the book with the terrible cover, this is your sign to give it a go.
1238 Hay St, West Perth
OPEN
Mon-Fri, 6.30am-2pm, Sat-Sun, 8am-2pm
BOOKINGS
No
CONTACT
0414 331 341
THE VERDICT
Blink and you’ll miss it cafe that is worth giving a shot if you enjoy tasty and filling food and quick and kind service.
14/20
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