Bar Lafayette, Perth – Classy, Cosy, Charming
Last month I said cheers to the best watering holes across Australia. My first stop was Perth. According to the latest study by Mercer consulting company, Perth shows up in the top 25 cities which offer the highest quality of living. And I have to admit that right from the start I was in love with the vibe. Sunny, conveniently small and extremely relaxing is how I would describe this metropolis.
The bar scene is constantly growing. Some of the bartenders told me that they are a few years behind Melbourne and Sydney. Perth is, without question, remote. It is the most western city and the nearest major city, Adelaide, is around 2.000 kilometres away. Western Australia’s largest city has invested a lot of money in city beautification and, in particular, has introduced new liquor laws – a big step towards the hospitality and tourism industry and a more tourism-friendly hospitality culture in West Australia. Nowadays you will find more and more small venues which have charm, character and soul. It was hard to decide where to go because the city boasts more than a couple of visit-worthy bars. So, here is one of the first I got to.
Bar Lafayette is a bit tucked away from the main street, St. Georges Terrace and beautifully located inside the restored and heritage listed Old Perth Technical School building. It opened its doors in September 2012 and was awarded Best Cocktail Bar in WA a few years later.
Attention to detail is the theme of the venue. It looks small at first glance but then turns out to be able to host around 100 people. You will find yourself in an old world cocktail bar with wall paintings, exposed bricks, vintage pictures and decor and comfy chesterfield sofas. Many intimate spaces to relax and unwind, to celebrate with friends or just have a private first date.
A classic old-world cocktail bar for those with an evolved palate. The beverage program is based on bygone principles of quality, seasonality and creativity.
Like always I took my seat at the wooden bar counter from a bygone era, with the best view of the extensive spirits collection. The attentive bar team looked after me right from the start and gave me an unforgettable night out. The bar menu is easy to understand and is categorised into Sparkling & Aperitifs, Carbonated, Light, Fruity & Long Drinks, Time Travelled Classics and so on. If you are undecided just trust your bartender and rely on the recommendations. Along with the well known names, you will be happy to find many less common labels and some very rare bottles on the shelves. They also offer a diverse wine list and boutique beers, with some tasty bites alongside. A perfect match, as I love to sip my cocktails while eating little bites – in this case, delicious soft-shell tacos with a mezcalicious fruity concoction based on the Tequila Ocho Single Estate.
A place to forget about time and space, and be delighted by a well chosen selection of spirits. Bar Lafayette offers up artisanal cocktails. From their current menu featuring the Archie Rose Distilling Co. I opted for the Cold Drip Negroni. Archie Rose Distillers Strength Gin, Campari & Antica Formula, batched & dripped through coffee and served on a crystal clear block of Ice. Australia’s most highly awarded distillery, Archie Rose produces whiskies, gins, vodkas and rums. Founded in 2014 and located in Rosebery, Sydney, it is also worth a visit.
Elegant drinks served by a smart barteam. Intimate, sophisticated and super friendly atmosphere. What else does it take?
Maybe another drink from the generous menu? The category Carbonated offers cocktails with a molecular twist. They are shaken with C02 in a special shaker to carbonate the still liquid, giving them a light spritz. How about barrel aged? From their barrels, a selection of rested concoctions await to please refined palates. A modernised take on an old favourite Mint Julep based on Michter’s Unblended American Whiskey combined with Delord VS Armagnac & Flor De Cana 7yo Rum to create the base for a cold drip coffee brew. Batched with maple & churned with mint over crushed ice. A bar not to be missed. Next door you will also find some nice bars worth a visit. Highly recommended.
