The 14 best cafés in Perth

A true landmark in North Perth, walking into Satchmo is much like walking into an old-school New York City deli. The same can be said for its food, which features deli-style dishes, like cream cheese bagels, Reuben sandos and meatball hoagies, amidst its 1970s-inspired interiors. After moving a few doors down from its original location, Satchmo has somehow become even more popular. Trust us, it’s the place to be seen in North Perth. 

Vegan brunch is Flora and Fauna’s ‘thing’, but even if you’re not strictly plant-based, you shouldn’t be deterred from visiting this Northbridge café. They’ve gained a loyal following over the years and even expanded from their tiny kitchen into the space next door. Each season brings a new menu, but their freshly baked banana bread with choc chips is a mainstay – and a must-order. 

Subiaco has its fair share of cafés, but Community Coffee Co. is definitely up there on our list of favourites. What appears like the back of a carpark is actually a go-to café and they’ve gained a loyal following over the years. They’ve now opened two new locations in Perth CBD and one in Duncraig, but it’s their Subi location that started it all. Fans of breakfast will want to head here ASAP to try their famous sandos (we recommend their fabled egg one) or their buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and bacon.

You might end up waiting a while in an alley for your morning cuppa, but trust us, it’s worth it. Hidden away down one of Perth’s many lanes on Howard Street, this café serves specialty coffee that will surpass your wildest dreams. Be sure to try their oat mont blanc – a cold brew with a cap of oat cream and a dusting of orange zest and nutmeg – and pair it with a golden toastie, such as the Cuban with pickle mustard, ham, cheese and gherkins.

Smack bang on Railway Parade, it's hard to stop yourself from grabbing a bite from Hylin café. A favourite amongst Perth locals, you can enjoy a coffee (and one of their hearty buttermilk chicken croissants) while you sit under the trees to enjoy your meal. This intimate neighbourhood café also has a buzzy bar at the back for evening catch-ups with friends.

Part of Mo Espresso Group, Hemingway café’s appeal is its modern, minimalist, chic aesthetic. Caffeine addicts flock here for a taste of coffee made from their under-counter Modbar (a true love letter to coffee), and city workers are known to hold their meetings here. If you’re planning to visit on a weekday morning, expect a small queue. Trust us, it’s absolutely worth the wait. 

Artem started as a pop-up spot before its blossoming popularity led to the establishment of two locations in Mount Pleasant and Highgate. Now Perth residents flock here for their east-meets-west menu, which is a hybrid of brunch-style classics and Asian fare. Most famous is Artem’s Reuben sandwich which is only available on weekends. But you could also try their mochi waffles, prawn roll or cold mentaiko pasta.

You’ve probably come here for the hash brown benny right? We can’t argue with the kind of eggs benedict that oozes effortlessly on your plate. But you should also stick around this family-run café in Inglewood for the black forest french toast, pork belly bulgogi rice bowl and brussel sprouts to share.

Subiaco locals have known and loved Boucla for years, and for good reason. The café’s Moroccan-style decor and colourful prints create a sense of homeliness you can’t help but love. Despite opening 20 years ago, current owner Nil Thapaliya is all about continuing the tradition of good Greek food while constantly updating the café’s menu. Come for vegetarian soufra (custard cake), spanakopita and papoutsakia (stuffed eggplant), and definitely stay for some of their drool-worthy cakes. 

A freshly toasted bagel and hot coffee from Playa could make anyone’s day. And that’s probably why you’ll usually find a small crowd gathering at this café every weekday morning. A city sanctuary, it’s no surprise office workers flock here for smokey salmon bagels, melty buttered banana bread and baked goods. You’ll never want to return to the office after stopping by.

When Mr Herbert’s closed in 2021, locals were understandably devastated. So when Laura and Gary Fletcher took over and opened Folk and Merchant, that feeling of community was brought back to the Doubleview area soon enough. Sourcing foods from local businesses, Folk and Merchant brag outdoor dining, a coffee window and a simple food menu done well. We love the coffee brewed from Wangara’s own Kaltiva Coffee Roasters, and taking a peek at Laura’s own children’s clothing line, Lucie June, sold inside. 

Perth’s southeastern suburbs are not exactly known for their culinary fare, which makes Timber a standout in the area, and well worth a trip. The menu changes seasonally and features all the classics with a twist – crispy corn and spring onion fritters with sriracha and sour cream, for example. There’s also a well-stocked cabinet of takeaway treats to accompany your morning coffee if you’re on the go.