Secret passwords for bars, edgy graffiti and a whole new side to Perth's Northbridge
It is fast shaping out to be Perth’s most vibrant and colourful entertainment precinct, however parts of Northbridge used to carry a negative stigma.
Just like Sydney’s King’s Cross in its prime, it was the entertainment mecca of Perth but also notoriously dangerous to venture past at a certain time.
Thankfully, those turbulent days are long gone as Northbridge has seen the light and is now entering an exciting and vibrant chapter; a transformation you would eagerly want to experience for yourself.
What can be heavily attributed to the exciting change of the Perth entertainment scene is the relaxation of the Western Australian liquor licensing laws dating back to 2007.
The major reforms paved the way for small businesses to capitalise and help mould Perth’s blossoming hospitality as well as creative scene with the effects especially felt in Northbridge.
Hidden laneways, forgotten spots and once derelict spaces are now waiting to be discovered with the arrival of small bars steadily cropping up across Northbridge that is fast approaching to rival Melbourne’s offerings.
There are venues to cater to all from quirky live haunt and veteran small bar The Bird, characteristically grungy Ezra Pound to the ‘oasis in a concrete jungle’ rooftop bar Mechanics Institute serving up local favourite cheap eat Flipside Burgers from below.
Not all places scream welcome with the cleverly hidden rum bar Sneaky Tony’s permitting patrons entry via Facebook updated passwords.
Ironically, this speak easy and cleverly hidden bar behind an unmarked door is a welcome and fresh addition to the evolving bar scene.
Northbridge isn’t only a place for the drinkers; it is also fast becoming one of Perth’s most enticing food destinations.
With hole-in-the-wall eateries popping up all over, the food options have never been greater. Once famed for its Asian cuisine, the area is now home to numerous independent eateries drawing flavours from around the world and capped with a modern twist both taste and setting.
Nestled amongst long standing Yum Cha eateries is Pleased to Meet You, dishing up Central and South American fusion bites in its slick NYC inspired laid back setting.
With humble street food beginnings, many pop up vendors around Perth have graduated from the streets to call Northbridge a permanent home.
The popularity and love affair with Korean food continues to soldier on with the casual eatery Chimek melding the best of Korean-American cuisine with its moderately priced finger licking fried chicken and gourmet burgers.
Chi Cho Gelato is the cream of the crop when it comes to dessert. Situated along Northbridge’s main strip, William Street, this upmarket ice cream parlour offers a revolving door of unusual concoctions including the savoury flavoured goats cheese and passionfruit chilli sponge.
With one small scoop, Northbridge is literally infusing flavours of the world together.
Along the corner of James Street and Lake Street is Northbridge Piazza, the centre piece of this transforming district.
With its LED super screen, illuminated benches, permanent umbrellas and lawn space, this community centric hotspot screams chill.
The best things in life are free as it plays host to free events including yoga classes, film nights and also broadcasts special live screenings including sporting and cultural events.
Behind the Piazza is Northbridge’s latest kid on the block and new icon, The Northbridge Brewing Company. The boutique brewery appeals to a relaxed crowd with its three art deco inspired levels, including a sky deck, all overlooking the ever changing city.
The city’s appreciation for the arts is far from reaching fever pitch with street graffiti becoming the norm around the city.
With the colour injection on its walls, community events and multiple restaurant and bar offerings, Northbridge is mapping out to be Perth’s go-to entertainment district; one that you would want to navigate for yourself.
