A new wave of drinking and dining in Albany.
One of the state’s best craft distillers and a landmark small bar are leading a fresh wave of dining entrepreneurs in Western Australia’s oldest town, writes MAX VEENHUYZEN.
On the outskirts of town, family-run Wilson Brewing is Albany’s newest craft brewer. An on-site café serves local Bakers Junction pies – perfect beer-matching fare. 47768 South Coast Hwy, Albany
BAR
Liberté Whether you settle in the bar or retreat to Liberté’s lavish Belle Époque-inspired back room, Amy Hamilton’s punchy FrenchVietnamese dishes and Keryn Giles’ cocktails are crowd-pleasers. The monthly dim sum-inspired Brunch & Booze Sundays are not to be missed. 160- 162 Stirling Tce, Albany, (08) 9847 4797, libertealbany.com.au
DISTILLERY
Limeburners Established in 2004, this Albany distillery laid the foundations for Western Australia’s craft spirit boom. The waterside cellar door is open for tastings and distillery tours. While Limeburners’ single-malt whiskies draw most attention, its gins are equally worthy of praise. 252 Frenchman Bay Rd, Albany, (08) 9842 5363, distillery.com.au
SHOPPING
Albany Farmers Market A strict locals-only policy among produce stallholders ensures quality is the focus at Albany’s weekly Saturdaymorning market. The vegetables and herbs at Bathgate Farm are a picture of seasonal abundance, and local shellfish and free-range pork and poultry are also popular. Collie St, Albany
THAI
Maleeya’s Thai Café Maleeya Form makes Thai food using bamboo and herbs grown on her adjacent farm. The property’s idyllic setting and proximity to Porongurup cellar doors, about 45 minutes’ drive from Albany, make lunch at Maleeya’s a perfect day trip. 1416 Porongurup Rd, Porongurup, (08) 9853 1123, maleeya.com.au
TAVERN
Due South Behind the beer-barn exterior of this waterfront pub is an operation committed to good slow food. The kitchen mills its own flour, charcutier Martin Morgan makes some of the state’s finest smallgoods, and a beef ageing program produces excellent steak. The bottle shop next door specialises in local wines. 6 Toll Pl, Albany, (08) 9841 8526, duesouthalbany.com.au ●