Legend goes that tapas began when the King of Spain made it law for bars to serve food alongside drinks. It was an effort to curb public drunkenness and was usually just a piece of bread with a basic topping, served on the rim of your wine glass. Fast forward a few centuries and “tapa” which means “to cover” in Spanish is now a cuisine of its own, celebrating mixed and matched small plates. Here’s our guide to Perth’s best tapas. Buen provecho!
Picada
Picada weaves a passion for Spanish fare and quality Australian produce in a fusion of tapas, wine, and cocktails. At the helm of the vibrant dining room in Perth’s Hibernian Square is Glasgow-born chef Graham Arthur. He’s been on the tools at some of the city’s favourite European spots. In terms of what to order, there’s charred chorizo, jamon croquettes, spicy beef empanadas, and patatas bravas. That’s enough to make you say “olé”!
Andaluz Bar & Tapas
You can find some of the best authentic tapas in Perth hidden inside this little Spanish tapas haunt. Tucked away under the historic Parker and Parker building on Howard Street, Andaluz is the brainchild of husband and wife team Ryan Gregory and Carla Arevalo. The bar draws inspiration from years of travel, research, hospitality experience, and Spanish heritage. The result is an intimate and eclectic, contemporary-style bar, which fuses cosy antique leather lounges with beautiful soft furnishings. In the kitchen, Head Chef Rick Welch produces an ever-changing menu of traditional and modern tapas, designed to be shared and enjoyed with friends. While you’re at it, take your pick from the diverse range of Spanish and Australian wines and cocktails. It’s safe to say you’ll be hooked after just one bite!
Mummucc’
Admittedly, Mummucc’ is perhaps a stretch of what is strictly considered tapas. But as the menu is basically a lineup of share-style snacks, it fits the brief. This small Italian wine bar in Wembley is the product of the geniuses behind pizza royalty Monsterella. Beyond the utterly delicious drinks list, the food is modern yet rustic with authentic Italian flavours shining through. Expect the likes of torched stone fruit burrata, smoked tiger prawn campanelle, and Angus fillet tartare. Is your mouth watering yet?
Duende Tapas Bar
If you’re in the mood for tapas, attempting to wow someone on a date night, or having drinks with the ladies, Duende is the perfect place. Despite being more than two decades old, these guys have well and truly perfected the art and continue to fly the flag for Spanish eating and drinking. We’re talking crispy fried calamari, chargrilled Amelia Park lamb cutlets, corn croquettes, and halloumi with pomegranate glaze. Set on the fringe of the hustle and bustle of Leederville, Duende resides in a location that could easily leave you wondering if you’re in Barcelona, Seville or San Sabastian. With a name that essentially means “having soul”, you’ll be forgiven for never wanting to leave!
