There’s nothing quite like a good view. It shifts our perspective, leaves us in awe and takes something special and makes it unforgettable.
We searched high and low for the WA eateries with the most memorable views and chatted to the chefs and coordinators about how it takes the dining experience to the next level.
In November 2023, Indigo Oscar will celebrate two years since opening their seaside doors and sinking a sea of new flavours into the Cottesloe coastline. Nestled inside the iconic Indiana Tea House Building and boasting sweeping views of the postcard-perfect destination, this beachside bar and eatery is as picturesque as it is delicious. The menu is built around Latin-American flavours, coupled with a beverage list fabricated for festivities. The dining room was also awarded a Chef Hat at the 2023 Australian Good Food Guide Awards – all the more reason to pop in to this tropical haven. (Alexandra Casey)
99 Marine Parade, Cottesloe
There aren’t many restaurants perched precisely three steps from the sand – this beachside joint is just that. Located on Fremantle’s Bathers Beach, guests can dine in the comfort of the restaurant or beneath yellow striped umbrellas with sand between their toes in the aptly-named beach lounge. In terms of food, expect an ocean-infused menu of oysters, barramundi, squid and octopus, we’re talking cuttlefish risotto, seafood boards and prawn bao buns! Whether you’re in for a quick drink or a cheeky bite, you’ll be leaving in good spirits! (Alexandra Casey)
47 Mews Road, Fremantle
Overlooking a spectacular city skyline, Mister Walker is located on Mends Street Jetty in South Perth. Open early until late, for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and everything in between, the restaurant is all about elevating locally sourced, fresh ingredients and curating delicious meals that have you coming back time after time. Think Turkish poached eggs and homemade muesli, Shark Bay prawn pasta and market fish, cauliflower tempura and crispy chicken. If you’re partial to sun-kissed afternoons sipping cocktails paired with peaceful riverside views, you’re in the right place. (Alexandra Casey)
80 South Perth Esplanade, South Perth
In 1962, Mount Pleasant’s iconic rowing sheds threw open their doors to host the city’s British Empire and Commonwealth Games, 60 years later, another significant chapter begun. The Pav, as it’s fondly branded by locals, is the newest and coolest dining venue to grace the leafy shores of Mount Pleasant – and for good reason! The expansive open-air terrace is the hero, coupled with striking contemporary designs, lofty ceilings and uninterrupted riverside views – the result of a transformation by three Perth hospitality entrepreneurs. When it comes to wine, the focus is on WA, while their native cocktail range takes inspiration from local flavours. Food wise, try the crispy tofu tacos, cauliflower popcorn and delicious range of pizzas. (Alexandra Casey)
4 The Esplanade, Mount Pleasant
Perched on the doorstep of the Indian Ocean, a hop, skip and jump north from Cottesloe Beach, Shorehouse is all about good vibes and flavour. Known for their Insta-worthy yellow and white striped umbrellas, groovy white furniture and spectacular seaside views, you’ll be getting more than a good profile pic. The restaurant is one of Perth’s trendiest eateries, where you can watch the waves roll in as surfers take to the tides while indulging in some pretty tasty nom noms. Their cocktails are killer and delightfully, their breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings are just as good. Spinach and ricotta gnocchi, marinated olives and kingfish ceviche, oh my! (Alexandra Casey)
278 Marine Parade, Swanbourne
Located on the edge of Matilda Bay in Crawley, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city skyline and soothed by the sounds of the Swan. A rich historical tapestry runs deep beneath the bones of this spectacular restaurant which was named after Matilda Roe, the wife of WA’s first Surveyor, John Septimus Roe. The land was also used as the state’s first international airport and the location of a Catalina base during WWII. A handful of culinary highlights include Rottnest Island scallop, tuna mojama, truffled baked brie and Amelia Park lamb rack. (Alexandra Casey)
3 Hackett Drive, Crawley
With such a stunning coastline right at our doorstep, there’s always a good reason to head to the beach. Odyssea is a coastal eatery with exquisite indoor and outdoor views of Perth’s central beaches; the perfect place to soak up the sun or watch a storm roll in over the sea. Head Chef Nicholas Duncan compliments the location with a menu filled with flavourful dishes that are just as enjoyable shared as they are kept to yourself. Featuring highlights such as a tender spiced lamb dish served with cucumber mint labneh and dukkha flatbread – as well as a standout kangaroo fillet with Mexican influences – Odyssea’s menu is best enjoyed alongside one of their exceptional cocktails, wines or beers on tap.
“The views really help people to relax and create moments to remember. It’s an important part of the overall experience,” says Duncan. “People always love a restaurant that’s located on the beach but when you can deliver amazing food and an experience as well, that’s what is going to elevate you and make you stand out.” (Kale Armstrong)
187 Challenger Parade, City Beach
Imagine being treated like royalty while dining amongst the clouds. C Restaurant is WA’s only sky-high revolving restaurant, completing a full cycle over the span of ninety minutes. Featuring three hundred and sixty-degree views that encapsulate all of Perth’s monuments and distinct iconography, the spectacle from atop St Martin’s Tower can only be described as breath-taking. With a variety of dining options that will fight for your attention over the scenery – including an a la carte lunch menu, high tea and two or five course dinner – there’s a lot to love about this award-winning eatery.
C Restaurant’s menu features a variety of European classics and specialties with creative twists that balance the familiar with the bold and exciting; the perfect addition to this unique and memorable experience. If you haven’t visited C Restaurant before, it’s time for you to make a booking and head on up to the thirty-third floor. (Kale Armstrong)
Level 33, 44 St Georges Terrace, Perth
Since opening its doors in 1993, Fraser’s has had a lot to live up to. Nestled amongst the gumtrees in Perth’s iconic Kings Park and Botanical Gardens, Fraser’s overlooks the city and Swan River from the best natural vantage point in town. It’s a tall order to meet, and a challenge to anyone brave enough to take it on. Enter Executive Chef Chris Taylor, who delivers on the high expectations of the location with a menu that champions the beauty and simplicity of WA produce.
With hints of Mediterranean and South-East Asian influences throughout, Frasers’ menu features a phenomenal chargrilled octopus dish with green romesco as well as an incredibly tender Linley Valley pork belly with pineapple and Nam Jim. With such stunning scenery on offer, Taylor highly recommends guests “spend some time in the park before or after dining” to top off the experience. (Kale Armstrong)
60 Fraser Avenue, West Perth
It’s fair to say that The Reveley has become an essential stop on a visit to Elizabeth Quay. With spectacular views of the Quay, city and Swan River, the eatery offers something for everyone within its three distinct levels. The Reveley’s ground floor focuses primarily on casual and family dining – think steak sandwiches, burgers and snacks. The second level provides a high-quality seasonal menu with a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere, while Henry’s Rooftop Bar features cocktails and tapas along with a magnificent view of the Quay and cityscape.
At the helm is Executive Chef Ben Keal. Known for his work overseeing The Three Pound Group’s other popular eateries – including The Camfield, The Elford and Good Company – Keal is no stranger to catering for big numbers and diverse crowds. Noting the importance of the riverside location in creating the feel of The Reveley, Keal praises the location for its design and natural beauty. “It’s been amazing to see everything go up,” Keal says on the growth of the location. “The sunsets over King’s Park are absolutely amazing.” (Kale Armstrong)
Eastern Promenade, The Towers at Elizabeth Quay, Ophir Walk, Perth
The Swan River is the lifeblood of Perth. Connecting the north to the south and the hills to the ocean, it’s always a pleasure to stop and admire its beauty. Located on the southern bank of the river, The Boatshed Restaurant is a family run eatery that’s been a staple of the Swan River since opening twenty-five years ago. With panoramic views that stretch from Kings Park to Optus Stadium, the location is a popular place to take in the beauty of the city while indulging in a variety of fresh, zesty and flavourful dishes. The Boatshed’s menu is carefully designed to be “confident without being pretentious” while adding to the “timeless” nature of the landscape.
“Perth has to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world to look at no matter what the weather,” says Claire Miller and manager Owen Dawson. “A sunny spring day or a cold and blistery winters evening, the Perth lights and the Swan River always make for a fantastic backdrop.” (Kale Armstrong)
1L Coode Street, South Perth
Delicately crowned atop the rooftop of the State Buildings is Perth’s jewel of fine dining: Wildflower. A recent recipient of Three Chefs Hats and Three Glasses by the Australian Good Food Guide Awards and the Wine List of the Year Awards respectively, Wildflower is famed for its attentive service, wide sweeping views of the Swan River, and an elegantly designed menu that celebrates native Australian ingredients.
Taking over from Mathew Sartori in 2022, Head Chef Michael D’Adamo acknowledges that taking on the reputable position has had its challenges but is proudly “enjoying it” and “excited for what the future holds.” As devoted followers of the culinary concept of “time and place,” Wildflower aims to tell a cultural and culinary story of Perth in the here and now. “The view definitely has an effect,” D’Adamo says on its contribution to the experience. “The venue has two different stories to tell. During the day you get to see over the foreshore and the beautiful gardens of Council House. While at night, it’s the bright lights of the city, the venue and the food in focus.” (Kale Armstrong)
State Buildings, 1 Cathedral Avenue, Perth
Header image: Indigo Oscar