5 of the Coolest Bars in Perth

Varnish on King

This one’s for whisky aficionados. Two pages of the drinks menu are dedicated to different styles, divided by geography. You can get whisky flights (three small drams with a range of tipples), a bacon flight (where your whiskies are paired with pig) and boilermakers (whisky in one glass, a complementary beer in another). A masterclass is held on the first Monday of every month, where you can taste four whiskies and learn how they’re made.
75 King Street (basement level), Perth; (08) 9324 2237

Halford

Step back in time and order a martini at this standout lounge bar. Located in the old safe room of the 1897 Titles Office, the design hits all the right notes: dim lights, coloured velvet and gold detailing. It’s open until midnight four days a week and until 2am from Thursday to Saturday. Order from the snack and toastie menu to keep you going.
Corner Hay Street and Cathedral Avenue; (08) 9325 4006

The Stables Bar

Originally horse stables – among the first in Perth – this space was transformed into a must-visit food-and-wine hotspot nearly five years ago. There are two levels, as well as an outdoor bar that overlooks the city. The wine list is extensive, all the classic cocktails are covered and the house mixes are enticing (a Warm Apple Pie is just the ticket, with spiced rum, green-apple liqueur, apple juice and cinnamon). The grazing and main menus are just as impressive, with bread, cured meats and condiments all produced in house.
888 Hay Street, Perth; (08) 6314 1300

Budburst Small Bar

The exposed brick and high ceilings give this small bar in a 100-year-old cottage a cosy feel. Plus, the focus on lesser-known wines means you can experience something totally new. If you’re hungry, try one of the much-praised small plates by chef Gwenael Lesle. On Wednesdays, you’ll receive a complimentary charcuterie board when you spend $70 on any bottle of wine. There’s also craft beer and a small selection of spirits.
406 Oxford Street, Mount Hawthorn; (08) 9444 3406

Sneaky Tony’s

Any bar that you need a password to get into has to be good, right? If you’re here on a Friday or Saturday night (and you can find the unmarked door, of course), you’ll need to check the Facebook page to get the secret words that will grant you entry (past example: Ba ba be bop bop). Once inside, soak up the rum bar’s old-world speak-easy feel. Not sure where to start? The staff will guide you through the rum selections.
Somewhere in Chinatown, Northbridge