From picturesque landscapes to vibrant culture, the charming suburb of Subiaco is a hidden gem well worthy of discovery. It’s the ideal backdrop for a perfect weekend escape boasting a unique blend of historical architecture, trendy boutiques, and delectable eateries.
Subi — as this inner-city neighbourhood is fondly known — is just four kilometres from the CBD, yet within easy reach of Perth’s best beaches, the bushwalking trails of Kings Park, and the magnificent Swan River.
The suburb also recently earned the prestigious title of the best Australian suburb to live in, according to the 2023 Australian Liveability Census.
Here’s how to eat, drink, and spend the perfect weekend getaway in Subiaco.
Things to do
Visit Subiaco Farmers Market
If there’s one thing to love about Subiaco, it’s the farmers market. A fresh food lover’s dream, the Subiaco Farmers Market boasts an eclectic mix of food stalls and handcrafted wares. Delight in the lively and bustling atmosphere as you sashay through the weekly produce from local farmers, producers, and artisans.
Explore Kings Park
Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of Kings Park — one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner-city parks, home to 3,000 species of unique flora, bush walk trails, and immaculate gardens. Starring panoramic vistas of the Swan River and city skyline, Kings Park is the idyllic spot for a relaxed saunter in nature, just a stone’s throw from Subiaco.
Regal Theatre Entertainment
Make your way under the twinkling night sky to the glorious Art Deco Regal Theatre for which the suburb is celebrated. From live music to comedy, the heritage-listed building has played host to captivating performances for decades. Whether it’s a play, musical, or concert, the theatre promises an enchanting night of entertainment.
Shopping in Subiaco
Explore the trendy boutiques and shops peppered along Subiaco’s main drag. From fashion and homewares to books and everything in between, the strip offers a diverse range of fit for a laid-back shopping spree.
The best places to eat and drink
Pastries at Layers Bakery
Imagine the aroma of freshly baked pastries and rich brewed coffee. For the ultimate breakfast treat, swing by the bakery often hailed as Perth’s best. The French artisan Layers Bakery is the product of a former fine-dining chef with a goal to share his culture. Take your pick from the delightful assortment of sweet and savoury, marvellously flaky and buttery pastries, croissants, and bread. Why not grab a caffeinated beverage while you’re at it?
Breakfast at Boucla’s Greek Delights
Begin your day with a visit to the popular Mediterranean-inspired boutique café, Boucla. The quaint and cosy space is enough to transport you to the coastal shores of Greece. Savour the tantalising goodness of Greek pastries and wash it down with a refreshing frappé as you read the local paper.
Long Lunch at Subi Continental
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Subi Continental, where Paris meets New York on the corner of Rokeby and Roberts. Settle in for a long lunch at the charming bistro in the suburb’s beating heart. As you nibble on steak tartare, grilled asparagus, ricotta gnocchi, and market fish, watch the world go by from the alfresco area.
High Tea at Bar Amelie
Revel in an afternoon of pure indulgence at Bar Amelie with its signature High Tea. Expect a whimsical experience that treats your palate to savoury and sweet delicacies with 90 minutes of free-flowing champagne to compliment. Think smoked salmon and cream cheese blini, pumpkin and goat curd tartlet, and mushroom arancini with truffle aioli, finished off with lemon curd meringue tart, and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Simply divine.
Sunset drinks at Storehouse Subiaco
When it comes to sunset drinks in Subiaco, Storehouse is an absolute must! The jewel in the crown truly does sit at the top, so while away the afternoon hours at the rooftop restaurant and bar on the ninth floor of Subiaco’s Vibe Hotel. Bowing to Scandinavian minimalism, the space exudes an elegant feel. With a refined interior and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing uninterrupted panoramic CBD views, what more could you possibly want?
Enjoy a Modern Asian Dinner at Shui
As the sun sets and paints the sky pastel, enjoy dinner at modern Asian eatery, Shui. The Rokeby Road restaurant is the brainchild of renowned Chef Leigh Power and features a menu of explosive and evolving dishes, paired eloquently with Benny Tua’s inventive cocktails. While the interiors, designed by Rachel Feldhusen, provide an exquisite dining environment with a 24-carat bar and an extravagant crane ceiling. Every aspect is fine-tuned, from the team of experienced staff to the talented mixologists.
Italian Dinner at Lulu La Delizia
Wrap up the perfect weekend with a delicious feast at Perth’s best Italian restaurant, Lulu La Delizia. Nestled in Subiaco’s very core, Lulu’s is renowned for its always-on-point hospitality and ever-changing, wow-factor dishes. Whether it’s the gnocchi, pasta of the day, or Nonna’s meatballs, throw a dart at the menu and wherever it lands, you simply can’t go wrong.
Drinks at Bar Loiter
For dazzling pre-show cocktails, playful wines, and a variety of local beer taps, swing into Bar Loiter. Located off Rowland St, the beloved, upmarket yet casual watering hole is a great place to keep the drinks flowing. If you’re still peckish, choose from small plates or the full Dilly Dally menu to cure any stubborn hunger pangs.
