Away from the bright lights of Perth’s CDB and neighbouring restaurant-heavy Subiaco, the sleepy suburb of Shenton Park has its own extraordinary culinary claim to fame. Chef David Coomer brings out the best in Australia’s produce with his innovative, Asian-influenced cuisine at the chefs-hatted Star Anise.

Dedicated foodies will often travel miles into the countryside in search of surprising and pleasing gourmet experiences. Luckily, with Star Anise it’s just a short jaunt into the suburbs.

Committed to local providores, Coomer’s menu might feature Western Plains Pork, Blue Ridge Marron and Margaret River Eggs. Even if they weren’t from his home state, we’re certain the two-hour slow poached egg would be sumptuous beside chicken and oloroso consommé.

For more than a decade Coomer has been cooking up intriguing combinations, testing the boundaries of our palette. Try seared Fremantle scallops and caramelised duck, or Baldchin groper house, smoked octopus, artichoke and four types of beans.

Dedicated foodies will often travel miles into the countryside in search of surprising and pleasing gourmet experiences. Luckily, with Star Anise it’s just a short jaunt into the suburbs.

Where: 225 Onslow Rd, Shenton Park WA. (08) 9381 9811, www.staraniserestaurant.com.au

Did you know: The attractive star anise itself is a fruit most famously known in the West for its use in flavouring Galliano.