Modern European is the catch-all for kitchens that borrow technique from France, produce from their own region and ideas from everywhere — usually tasting-menu only.
In Perth the modern European list is led by Balthazar in Perth CBD (Acclaimed local fine dining, AUD 100-180 | USD 65-120 per person).
- 1.
Balthazar
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · Perth CBD · AUD 100-180 | USD 65-120
Balthazar, a long-standing fixture in Perth's dining scene, offers a refined and intimate experience in a stylish, subtly lit basement setting. Known for its sophisticated modern Australian cuisine, the menu showcases seasonal Western Australian produce with a focus on elegant technique and flavour balance. It's a consistently praised destination for special occasions.
Order: Daily Market Fish, Beef Fillet
- 2.
Wildflower
Acclaimed local fine diningContemporary Australian · Perth CBD · AUD 160-250 | USD 100-170
Matthew Sartori
Perched atop the Como The Treasury hotel, Wildflower offers panoramic city views and a menu inspired by the Indigenous Noongar six seasons. The kitchen's commitment to hyper-local ingredients, often foraged, and native Australian produce, is evident in every meticulously crafted dish. The elegant, light-filled space complements the innovative and thoughtful cuisine.
Order: Wagyu with Davidson Plum, Local Marron
- 3.
Millbrook Winery Restaurant
Acclaimed local fine diningModern Australian · Jarrahdale (Perth Hills) · AUD 120-180 | USD 80-120
Guy Jeffreys
Millbrook Winery Restaurant, set amidst the scenic Perth Hills, provides a captivating vineyard dining experience focused on sustainability and estate-grown produce. Chef Guy Jeffreys is renowned for his 'no-waste' ethos and ever-changing menu dictated by the vast kitchen garden. It’s an idyllic escape offering refined, seasonally driven cuisine complemented by award-winning wines.
Order: Seasonal set menu (changes daily based on harvest), Estate Lamb
Booking a modern European table in Perth
- · For Perth's top fine dining, booking 2-4 weeks in advance is advisable, especially for weekend evenings. Popular times fill quickly, so plan ahead to secure your preferred slot.
- · Many higher-end establishments may request credit card details to secure reservations, especially for larger groups or tasting menus, with a no-show or late cancellation fee.
- · Some fine dining restaurants offer excellent value lunch menus, often a shorter tasting experience or an a la carte selection at a more accessible price point than dinner.
- · Be mindful of no-show policies; cancelling within 24-48 hours may incur a fee. Always communicate changes promptly to avoid charges and maintain goodwill with the restaurant.
And the local dishes in Perth
Fish and Chips
A quintessential Australian takeaway, featuring freshly battered or crumbed fish (often local snapper or barramundi) served with crispy hot chips. Best enjoyed by the ocean with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of salt. Try it at C Restaurant, offering a refined version with stunning city views, or a beachfront shack in Cottesloe for the authentic experience.
Local Seafood Platter
Perth's proximity to the Indian Ocean means an abundance of fresh seafood. A platter often includes grilled or fried fish, prawns, calamari, mussels, and sometimes local crayfish (lobster). Enjoy this fresh bounty at restaurants along Fishing Boat Harbour in Fremantle, such as Kailis' Fish Market Café, for an authentic taste of the ocean's offerings.
Rottnest Scallop Pie
A popular and unique treat found almost exclusively on Rottnest Island. This savory pie features whole scallops cooked in a creamy sauce, encased in golden, flaky pastry. It's a surprisingly delicious and filling snack, perfect for refueling after cycling around the island. The Bakery at Thomson Bay is the iconic spot to try one.
Xiao Long Bao
These delicate Shanghainese soup dumplings are a must-try in Perth's vibrant Northbridge district. Filled with seasoned pork and a rich, savory broth, they are steamed and served hot. The skill lies in carefully biting a small hole to sip the soup before enjoying the rest of the dumpling. Authentic Bites Dumpling House is highly regarded for its rendition.
Seven days in Perth
Pair these modern European tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Perth travel guide