Get the rundown on some of the best wine bars in WA’s capital city
Put these must-visit Perth venues on your list to get a taste of the city’s thriving wine bar scene.
The Heritage Wine Bar
This city venue opened a number of years ago, but in recent times, with the addition of ‘Wine Bar’ to its name, it’s really hit its stride. The architecture of The Royal Insurance Building is reminiscent of a grand European cafe, with food and wine to match. British chef Matt Carulei has a modern vision, but a bag of age-old techniques at his disposal. Through the wonders of Coravin, the by-the-glass list is stellar, with more than 100 wines on pour. 131 St Georges Terrace theheritageperth.com.au
Lalla Rookh Wine Store
One of the first enoteca-style bars to make it big in Perth, the wine store sits discreetly alongside the cavernous restaurant and bar. It’s driven by the passion of sommelier and owner Jeremy Prus, who is adept at fostering talent, so there’s never a shortage of good advice on offer. While the food and wine in the restaurant is ardently Italian, the wine store casts its net further. 77 St Georges Terrace lallarookh.com.au
Petition Wine Bar and Merchant
In recent years, the State Buildings’ director of wine Emma Farrelly has carved out a national reputation and won a scoop of awards for her stewardship across the venues in the restored State Buildings. At Petition Wine Bar, you’ll find her out front, recommending wines to drink now and also take away. A great list is only the start – the menu of small plates is one of the best in town. (For more on Emma, turn to page 88.) State Buildings, St Georges Tce & Barrack St petitionperth.com
Tiny’s
The crew behind Tiny’s is one of the sharpest in Perth’s hospitality scene. At the base of the classic QV1 building, Tiny’s strikes a chic ’70s vibe, with tan leather and wood panelling. Whip-smart service and an eclectic wine list add to the joy, as do the smaller plates on the menu – the perfect accompaniments. If you’re looking to take a bottle away, the adjoining Liquor Emporium has an equally knowledgeable team. QV1 Plaza, Hay & Milligan St (enter via Milligan St) tinysbar.com.au
Balthazar
Set in another iconic Perth building, Balthazar has long been a favourite restaurant among the capital's business elite, but owners Emma Ferguson and Dan Morris have also made the bar an accessible city bolthole. Take your pick from the restaurant menu and extensive wine list without the full dining price tag. 6 The Esplanade balthazar.com.au