13 Fremantle hidden gems for foodies

The port city of Fremantle is the perfect place for foodies who crave secret restaurants and a fine place to wet their whistle. Here, find the city’s hidden hotspots.

Fremantle hidden gems attract those who crave expression, peace and – especially – a fine place to drink. From secret bars to repurposed heritage buildings to innovative menus, these are the restaurants and bars that need to be on your Fremantle hit list.

1. L’Chaim

“That’s the wrong door," someone giggles as a group of strangers push through a set of library shelves ahead of us. My friend Sally and I find ourselves laughing, too, as we follow them beyond the foyer walls. On the other side, black-and-white-clad bartenders sing and shimmy to Runaround Sue as they shake and stir flamboyant cocktails for canoodling couples.

Hidden in the basement of Fremantle’s Old Synagogue, L’Chaim – a Hebrew toast that means ‘to life’ – is reminiscent of speakeasy bars of the 1920s and 1930s: think red-velvet semi-circular booths, crystal chandeliers, framed mirrors, tasselled lamps, candlelight, top-shelf liquors and a feature wall tastefully decorated with bound books and retro knick-knacks.

Drinks at L'Chaim, Fremantle, WA — L’Chaim is hidden in the basement of Fremantle’s Old Synagogue.

I ask the bartender, Dylan, to make me “something artistic to watch" and he obliges. After witnessing careful measuring, pouring, heating and dancing flames, he produces my bespoke cocktail, which he describes as “a cross between a hot buttered rum and a blazer". The warm, thick, boozy liquid tastes like spiced butterscotch – perfect for the waterfront city’s cooling autumn evenings.

Inside the same complex, you’ll find the offering has expanded to include three other venues. South-east Asian fusion at Tonic + Ginger, a trendy beer and wine garden named Arbor and a rooftop terrace bar with a decent menu of nibbles.

Red velvet chairs at L'Chaim, Fremantle, WA — L’Chaim is reminiscent of speakeasy bars of the 1920s and 1930s.

2. The Old Courthouse

Sally and I are on a self-guided weekend bar tour, which began earlier in the evening at, The Old Courthouse , its name reflecting its lineage as the city’s courts and police station from 1899 to 2001. Today, the civil and criminal courts are restored to serve as spectacular dining rooms that welcome patrons who like rotisserie chicken with a side of convict history. The original magistrate’s bench and prisoner dock (which once housed hometown legend Bon Scott) take prime placing in each dining room.

the old courthouse fremantle meals — Enjoy rotisserie chicken with a side of convict history.

3. The National Hotel & Rooftop Bar

The Old Courthouse is another rescue of a derelict heritage building by Karl Bullers, managing director of The National Hotel and Rooftop Bar, the iconic local landmark that cost about $7 million to renovate.

“When I came to look at this building in 2012, it was a burnt-out wreck. There were no staircases, no floors," says Bullers, “But we came up scaffolding onto this rooftop and I thought, ‘This is amazing, I really want to buy this now’. The view made me overlook the difficulties involved in bringing it to life."

It’s the bird’s-eye views that draw a crowd to The National Hotel for gin cocktails and premium wines. Catch this place on a sunny, blue-sky day and you’ll think you’ve taken an elevator to heaven. At least that’s how Sally and I feel as we sip bright beverages in the open air of this (almost) hidden gem.

exterior view of national hotel fremantle — Take in bird’s-eye views from the terrace. (Image: Tourism WA)

4. Darling Darling

We trade pretty drinks and fresh air for the moody darkness of Darling Darling, a small bar with massive character. This ship-themed rum bar is well-hidden, save for a sandwich board on the footpath, so unless you’re privy, you may walk by and never be brave enough to duck through the leather-clad doorway. But fortune favours the brave as we saunter to the bar, peanut shells crunching underfoot, and order two Dark and Stormy (spiced rum and ginger beer) cocktails. We sit at the end of the bar looking for Captain Jack Sparrow and getting lost in the sea dog memorabilia as we make plans to return on a Sunday night when a local fiddler plays sea shanties.

Darling Darling Fremantle — Get lost in sea dog memorabilia.

5. Nieuw Ruin

Ironically, I visit not one but two restaurants that only feature share menus. The sky is weepy and grey the day I scurry down Norfolk Street in search of Nieuw Ruin. With no real signage, it’s possible to be none the wiser that an exquisite wine-centric bar hides behind the modest frontage of this restored cottage.

“There is no reason we don’t have a sign," says Nieuw Ruin venue manager Maria Marter. “We just haven’t found the need as we’ve built up a great customer base via word of mouth."

Once inside, it’s easy to see why: elegant decor, communal tables, wine bottles galore and welcoming staff. With more than 300 wines from around the globe on offer, I remain loyal to WA and order a glass of pinot noir from Margaret River.

Since I’m dining solo, I forgo the share plates and decide on its signature dish, a gourmet flaky pie. For autumn, it’s cauliflower and cheddar served swimming in French onion gravy. Its rich, comforting flavours warm my belly and my soul. Chef Blaze Young creates a new pie as the seasons change, and it’s now my life’s mission to taste each one.

meals at Nieuw Ruin fremantle — No sign needed to eat your heart out at Nieuw Ruin.

6. Emily Taylor

It’s Friday evening when I sample lobster-filled dumplings and crispy spring rolls at Emily Taylor. This buzzy bar and kitchen, part of the Warders Hotel, honours its two-fold namesake: a sailing ship named after the wife of the builder who transported spices between South-East Asia and Fremantle at a time when Aussie food was known to be rather bland.

But nothing about Emily Taylor is dull. The share-plate menu is packed with bold spices and feisty flavours hiding inside dumplings and duck dishes. Once finished, I determine to return for the weekend Yum Cha Bottomless Brunch. With Sally, of course.

Emily Taylor's fremantle — Sample South-East Asia fare at Emily Taylor’s.

More hidden Freo faves

7. DaRawNature Studio Gallery

This tucked-away gallery/cafe just off High Street is a gathering place for artists to create, collaborate and caffeinate in authentic surroundings.

Address: 5 Henry Street (down the alley).

8. Ghetto Blaster

A hole-in-the-wall, one-man show that serves up mean coffee, home-baked muffins and cordial chat Monday to Friday mornings.

Address: 47 Pakenham Street.

exterior shot of ghetto blaster — Grab the best coffee in Freo.

9. The Sunshine Harvester Works

From Fremantle’s best pizza to craft beer to bao buns and more, this collaboration of kitchens is off the beaten path, but worth the hike.

Address: 2/1 James Street.

dumplings at Sunshine Harvester Works Fremantle — Sample a range of cuisines with this collaboration of kitchens.

10. Republic of Fremantle

Head to this West End distillery for craft gin and vodka distilled on site, or to make your own at its Gin School.

Address: 3 Pakenham Street.

Republic of Fremantle, Distillery in Fremantle, WA — Republic of Fremantle is an urban distillery in the heart of the West End. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

11. Gimlet

This tiny blue-panelled space, part of the Warders Hotel , does double duty as a cafe during the day and cosy candlelit bar at night.

Address: 19–29 Henderson Street.

gimlet bar fremantle — Sit down to Gimlet. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

12. Kuld Creamery

Owners Kaitlyn and Mati create flavoursome dairy and vegan small-batch ice cream inspired by their North American roots.

Address: 11 Essex Street.

Kuld Creamery, Fremantle, WA — Try small-batch ice cream that’s big on flavour at Kuld Creamery.

From thundering waterfalls to ancient Indigenous art, Kimberley’s raw beauty will take your breath away.

Wild, pristine, and shaped by nature, the Kimberley Coast is one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. A remote and rugged frontier that remains a bucket list destination for many travellers. Its most breathtaking attractions – including Montgomery Reef, King George Falls and Horizontal Falls – are accessible only by sea or air, making a guided expedition cruise aboard Silversea’s luxury expedition ship, Silver Cloud, the ideal way to explore it.

From its intricate intertidal zones to ancient rock art, extreme tides and rare wildlife found nowhere else in Australia – or the world – this journey offers an unparalleled exploration of one of Earth’s last true wildernesses.

Why Silversea?

Silversea offers a 10-day expedition departing Broome, or an extended 16-day expedition voyage from Indonesia, including landings on the hidden gems of Palopo Sulawesi and Komodo. Accompanied by expert guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology, guests gain a deeper understanding of the Kimberley’s dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage and extraordinary biodiversity.

Silversea offers one of the experiential travel industry’s leading crew-to-guest ratios. Along with all-suite accommodation (80 per cent with private verandah), 24-hour butler service, a swimming pool and four dining options. Silver Cloud also has an experienced crew of multilingual expedition guides and specialists in marine biology, history and geology to enhance your Kimberley Experience.

silversea cruise ship pool deck — Take a dip in the pool deck.

1. Koolama Bay

Before visitors see King George Falls, they hear them – a growing rumble in the distance, steady and foreboding as the Zodiac glides through the gorge, the sound echoing off sheer rock formations. At 80 meters tall, the twin cascades carve through the red cliffs, churning the waters below in a spectacular finale – but Koolama Bay holds secrets beyond its striking scenery.

Named after a ship that beached here following an aerial attack by Japanese bombers in World War II, the bay may seem desolate, yet it teems with life. With Silversea’s expert guides on their 10-day Kimberley itinerary, guests gain a sharper eye for its hidden wonders – rock wallabies darting across the cliffs, crocodiles lurking among dense green mangroves, and high above, the silhouette of a bird of prey circling the sky.

King George Falls at koolama bay excursion on Silversea Kimberley Cruise — Take a shore excursion to see King George Falls.

2. Freshwater Cove / Wijingarra Butt Butt

Connect with Country on a wet landing at Freshwater Cove, also known as Wijingarra Butt Butt. Considered one of the most special experiences on both the 16-day and 10-day Kimberley cruises, Silversea guests are welcomed by the traditional Indigenous custodians of the land, painted with traditional ochre, and invited to take part in a smoking ceremony.

Located on the mainland near Montgomery Reef, Wijingarra Butt Butt holds deep cultural significance to the local Indigenous community. Here, rock formations along the shore represent spiritual ancestors, and guests are guided to a nearby rock overhang filled with ancient art, where traditional owners share the stories and meaning behind these sacred paintings.

welcome to country on freshwater cove during silversea kimberley cruise — Take part in a smoking ceremony. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

3. Vansittart Bay (Jar Island)

Modern history, ancient culture and mystery converge in Vansittart Bay, which is also known as Jar Island. Here, the first thing to catch the eye is the dented, silver fuselage of a World War II-era C-53 plane – a striking relic of the past. Yet, the true cultural treasures lie just a short hike away where two distinct styles of Indigenous rock art – Gwion Gwion and Wandjina – can be found.

The Wandjina figures, deeply connected to Indigenous traditions, stand in stark contrast to the enigmatic Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) paintings, which date back more than 12,000 years. Significantly different in form and style, the two different styles create a striking juxtaposition, offering a rare glimpse into the region’s rich and complex past.

aerial view of Vansittart Bay, See it in you Silversea Kimberley Cruise. — Explore ancient Gwion Gwion rock art at Vansittart Bay. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

4. Horizontal Falls

Part illusion, part natural phenomenon, the Kimberley’s much-lauded Horizontal Falls aren’t a waterfall, but a tidal and geographic spectacle that visitors have to see to comprehend. Known as Garaanngaddim, the phenomenon occurs when seawater rushes through two narrow gaps- one just twenty metres wide, and the other seven metres in width, between the escarpments of Talbot Bay.

With each tidal shift, the force of the water creates whirlpools, furious currents and the illusion of a horizontal cascade as thousands of gallons of water are pushed and pulled in through the gap every six hours with relentless movement, making this one of the Kimberley ’s most mesmerising natural wonders.

Horizontal Falls are described as "One of the greatest wonders of the natural world". They are formed from a break in-between the McLarty Ranges reaching up to 25m in width. The natural phenomenon is created as seawater builds up faster on one side of the gaps than the other, creating a waterfall up to 5m high on a King tide. — Watch whirlpools and furious currents collide. (Image: Janelle Lugge)

5. Montgomery Reef

As the tide turns in Montgomery Reef, magic happens. With the Kimberley’s legendary tides varying up to ten metres, at low tide the submerged reef almost appears to rise from the depths: exposing up to four metres of the sandstone reef.

The impact is otherworldly: as the water drains, waterfalls cascade on either side of the channel, turtles left exposed scramble and dive, and fish leap in search of sanctuary in shallow pools. Meanwhile, the dinner bell rings for the migratory seabirds dugongs, reef sharks and dolphins that scavenge and feast in the area.

Using zodiacs, guests cruise through one of the world’s most significant inshore reef systems navigated by experienced guides, exploring the most intricate and fascinating parts of a 300-square-kilometre-wide biodiversity hotspot.

aerial view of boat going along Montgomery Reef — Witness seabirds, dolphins and reef sharks on the hunt.

6. Mitchell Falls by Helicopter

Experiencing the Kimberley by sea allows you to feel the power of the tides, but travelling by helicopter reveals the sandstone tapestry of the Kimberley, a landscape geologists believe is over 1.8 billion years old.

One of Silversea’s most popular optional excursions , guests who opt to fly into the interior from the onboard helipad soar up above the rust-coloured landscape of the Mitchell plateau, taking in one of Australia’s most scenic waterfalls: Mitchell Falls, a series of four emerald-coloured pools gently cascades into each other, before plunging down to the river below.

Seeing the landscape from above reveals a landscape weaved and shaped by the power of the freshwater wet season, juxtaposed to the constant lapping of the relentless and powerful tide on the coast.

aerial view of mitchell falls on silversea helicopter excursion — See emerald pools cascade into the river below. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

7. Indigenous Art Caves, Wandjina Art

The Kimberley Region of Western Australia is home to some of the most striking and significant

Indigenous rock art in Australia. Dotted throughout the landscape are caves, cliffs and rock overhangs depicting the striking, ethereal image of Wandjina, the rainmaker spirit and creation being central to many of the Dreamtime stories in this region.

Some of the paintings are regularly repainted by traditional custodians, while others are believed to be over 4,000 years old. Each artwork serves as both a cultural record and a living connection to the past, offering a rare opportunity to engage with the enduring traditions of the Kimberley’s Indigenous communities.

Freshwater Cover Rock Art the kimberleys — Walk among cultural records preserved in stone. (Image: Tim Faircloth)

See the best of this incredible part of the world on a Silversea Kimberley cruise. Book your 10- or extended 16-day expedition voyage at silversea.com

12 Fremantle hidden gems for foodies