Rodneys Bait n Tackle - Stirling Highway, Mosman Park

You are immediately struck on entry by a unique bar that is making an instant and dramatic impact on the Small Bar Scene in Perth. This brand new bar is virtually perfect on every level.

Halfway between the river and the sea in Mosman Park this bar has a half riparian and half nautical theme. The centre piece of this stunning small venue is a 1940's River Cruiser that doubles as the bar. The fixtures and fittings are well thought out and reinforce the nautical theme.

No grand menu here, that is left to Samson's Paddock round the corner or the Suburban Table a few doors along, but that doesn't detract from this place at all. $2 slices of pizza, bar snacks, chips and pies means there is plenty on offer to soak up booze. A great outdoor seating area just adds to the options in this bar, a place that keeps on giving.

The drinks menu is solid and well thought out, it goes for quality over quantity, just enough of each option to serve the majority of people. Add into the mix some good cocktails and decent beers and everyone should be happy. This is the ideal place to have some really good drinks with your friends on a fun night out.

The staff were engaging and responsive, they have really hit the ground running and it really is difficult to fault this place. Nice background music is gentle on the ear and a great warm-up to the live acoustic acts that come slightly later in the evening. The owner Nathan told us that it will be a mix of jazz, blues and other acoustic sets, stuff that is easy listening and suitable for the venue and in keeping with the theme.

Peter says "Blown away by this place, truly an amazing small bar that raises the standard for everyone else, excellent customer services, interactive staff and superb design makes this the place to be"

Tony says "So much thought and detail has gone into making this place and it tells. A truly inspiring bar that has set a new standard for the Small Bar Scene, making Mosman Park a much more appealing destination. This is a place I intend to share with all my friends"

Check out their Facebook pages for what is going on - https://www.facebook.com/rodneysbaitntackle

Mrs Brown's Bar - Queen Victoria Street, North Fremantle

This small bar is playful and friendly, where happy people come for a glass of wine with friends and ultimately a good time. It is worth saying that we always take a couple of photos but the pictures on the website are far better than anything we took on the night.

Titled after the namesake of the street it sits on, Mrs Brown's fits perfectly into alternative North Freo. Even before entering and gazing through the front window you are struck by the warmth of this place. Sitting amongst a row of old terraces this place is right at home and the locals know it. The exposed bare brickwork on your right as your enter is stunning and really adds another layer of charm to this small bar. 

Billed as a wine bar, Mr's Brown's offers more than that, a good beer and spirit selection is also available as well as cocktails. We went for an Eagle Bay Brewing Co Kolsch - which is a great thirst quencher, but being light and bright is great to drink all year round. It was midweek during our visit and the place was buzzing, an amiable and sociable atmosphere and the sense of enjoyment was both infectious and palpable. The friendly and courteous staff have a good knowledge of the products on offer and provide quick and attentive service. 

There is a slightly strange but very attractive mix of styles that give this small bar a unique identity. Both kitsch and chintz are great terms to describe the decor, though at the same time it doesn't feel old fashioned or outdated. The courtyard at the rear of the bar is the perfect place to spend a summers afternoon, shaded from the harsh rays of the sun whilst enjoying a nice glass of wine or a cold beer. 

A huge bonus is being on the 98/99/103 bus routes and a short stroll from North Freo station meaning this bar is well connected by public transport and making that Sunday session that bit more inviting.  

Peter says "It is always nice to experience a place that leaves you with a smile on your face long after you have left. Good location and great service, get yourself down there for a few drinks"

Tony says "An accommodating little bar with a real nice set up. Great little court yard that I am looking forward to using in the summer. Mrs Brown's bar is just a real nice bar to go hang out in"

Check out the photos on their website - www.mrsbrownbar.com.au and their Facebook - www.facebook.com/mrsbrownbar for what is going on.

Clarences - Beaufort Street, Mount Lawley

A great neighbourhood bar in bustling Mount Lawley, a great place for a drink or something to eat. It also has one of the best cider selections we have seen anywhere in Perth.

On entry you think you have walked into a restaurant but venture further in and you will find a well designed and appointed bar. The staff are friendly, polite, attentive and eager to engage in conversation even when busy. 

A solid tap and bottled beer selection and a notable cider selection that is amongst the best in Perth. The wine cellar provides something for most people, though a bit light on white wine selection and the cocktail menu seems like a bit of an after thought. But overall there is something for everyone and if you like cider then this is definitely the place for you.

This bar is slightly understated but gives off a confidence of knowing its place amongst the better bars in the small bar scene. Thursday night special offers are a nice touch. As a venue it has great features and a well thought out design and decor. The outside area gives an added dimension to an already very good bar. This really is the perfect place for the warm up beers for a night out.

Tony says "This place is the perfect fit for Mount Lawley and a good place to kick off your evening with a couple of good drinks with friends"

Peter says "A well set out bar, that gives you bang for your buck, good design and nice staff make this a great place for a couple of drinks in Mount Lawley"

Jill says "Just my kind of bar - dark and mysterious with a cozy outdoor area, I loved the service from the friendly bar staff and I would most definitely come back to catch up and relax with friends"

Check out their website - http://clarences.com.au

The Dominion League - Beaufort Street, Perth

This bar would be at home sitting in a trendy part of Manhattan, Brooklyn or Chicago, it truly is a stunning venue where design and decor is key. Good service and great ambience takes this place towards the zenith of small bars in or around Perth.

This bar is in two parts the ground floor is your well laid out small bar oozing class. The exposed brickwork, wooden floors and well styled furniture add to the idea that you have walked into a high end venue on another continent.  You almost expect the bartender to have an American accent and to be given your change in dollar notes.

Downstairs into the basement you enter the cocktail bar, a bar which specializes in good whiskey and expertly made cocktails. A different vibe and a change in ambience leads you to believe that you aren't just downstairs but in a totally different bar. The attention to detail in making the cocktails was beyond professional and made both drinks well worth the wait. We went for a Banananananana Daiquiri and a Partisan Tart; both were excellent.

The beer and wine list is good but not stand out but that doesn't really matter as you will find a drink you like and the main reason to be here is to have a good time with your friends. The perfect setting for after work drinks, to bring a date or have a mini session, this small bar has something for everyone.

The staff are friendly and polite and provide good attentive service which got better as the evening went on. This together with a well thought out design makes this the kind of place you want to go back to time and time again.

Peter says "Blown away by this place, this small bar is on bar with the very best bars in and around Perth, can't really fault my experience there in any way and would recommend it to anyone that will listen"

Tony says "Pleasantly surprised upon arrival. A smartly designed bar that kept on giving. Great decor, ambience and a solid cocktail selection. Definitely a place to spend the whole evening"

Check out their website - http://dominionleague.com.au/

El Publico - Beaufort Street, Mount Lawley

A nice bar with a slight Mexican theme, this place is somewhere to go for a couple of drinks and maybe some dinner with friends.

El Publico is very vanilla, you may like it and go back to it time and time again but mainly because it is a safe option. Ultimately it is no thrills and doesn't offer up anything special and is pretty standard. Clean, tidy and pretty busy this is a popular venue in the heart of Mount Lawley. It seems to lack a vibe or soul, but does have good music playing in the background, however, rather than getting livelier as the venue packed out it just got noisier and increasingly difficult to hear.

Other than offering up a few trinkets and curios it doesn't give off the sense that you are in a bar trying to establish a Mexican theme. It is definitely more than a glorified Nandos but not quite as good as some of the other Mexican bars in Perth. Overall the staff were pleasant and attentive though the service was a bit slow at times. The sarcastic comments from some of the staff weren't warranted and did little to improve our experience.

A limited Australian craft beers selection and a distinct lack of Mexican or Central American beers was slightly disappointing. However, they did have Padst Blue Ribbon available which was a nice touch and an excellent cocktail and tequila selection. They also have a very active and popular kitchen that serves up good meals from a decent menu.

Tony says "In a great location in the thriving bar scene of Mt Lawley, this bar however does not add up for me, it's just a little underwhelming. Not a bad bar but left with a sense of wanting something a little more"

Peter says "Maybe the design or layout pulls out the warmth of this place, best described as inoffensive, it is a nice bar that could be so much better"

Jill says "I didn't even know this place existed even though I have walked past it countless times, I was pleasantly surprised by a nice bar in a good location"

Check out their website - http://elpublico.com.au

Strange Company - Nairn Street, Fremantle

A good new bar that is finding its feet in Fremantle. This small bar will appeal to most people rather than just a select few.

Stunning design that is modern, clean and trendy makes this place feel very welcoming. The ambience of this bar is like going to a nice house party, the constant chatter of people enjoying themselves, a nice level of background music and impressive design allows you to sit back and relax and enjoy your afternoon or evening, in the knowledge that you are in one of the best new bars in the Perth / Fremantle area.

Good boutique and craft beers on tap are well complemented by an excellent bottled beer selection, you will be spoiled for choice. There is also a good wine and spirit collection for those not so interested in the beer. The service was a little hit and miss though overall most of the staff were extremely helpful, polite and eager to please. The Schooners were disappointing as you can't beat holding a Pint of your favourite brew.

The outside area is nice and will come into its own during the summer, and overall you can't help to be impressed by the great design and layout.

Peter says "This small bar will be an instant hit, it will very quickly become my go to bar in Fremantle and the sooner they get some 'Pint Glasses' in the better. Modern and attractive design, attentive and helpful staff and a great range of drinks makes this place for me"

Tony says "A modern and architectural designed bar, could be mistaken for a house of 'Grand Designs'. With the feel of a house party for the well-to-do this place is still very inclusive to everyone. A nice place to drink, I will be sure to check back when it has found its feet"

Check out and like their Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/strangecompanyfremantle?fref=ts

The Classroom - Charles Street, North Perth

The attention to detail and service is outstanding, this place sets the bar so high that almost any other bar in Perth will try and fail to reach it. 

It really is one of the best bars we have been to. Design is everything in this place, the time and effort taken to make the classroom perfect is astonishing, this place is an Instagram paradise.

A colourful and playful venue where the staff are attentive and helpful, they provide an excellent level of service even when this place is busy. A good wine cellar and endless cocktails, all broken down by your favourite subjects. A solid beer menu is supported by good ciders and ginger beers.

This is the perfect place to venture to with your friends, the perfect place to start or spend the whole evening. It really does takes you back to your childhood, set up in a way that makes this place perfect for an adventure into your memories.

We think this place is well thought through and takes the item of a theme bar to another level. The decor is perfect and the ambience is electric even on a quiet night. The place brings out the best in everyone drinking there.

Tony says "Great to see something a little, maybe more than different when it comes to the theme and interior of this place. Vast range of drinks options and some fun cocktails to boot. In a class of its own. A+"

Peter says "Blown away by this place, heard so many good things and all of them are true, great design and staff make this place for me, no causes for concern here, top of the class!"

Check out their website - http://theclassroom.com.au/canteen-food-drinks/

Amani Bar & Kitchen - Oxford Street, Leederville

In a world where first impressions not only count but have to last this place just doesn't live up to the x-factor on entry. A modern wine bar in Leederville, that just doesn't hit the mark and will leave you slightly disappointed.

This small bar gives you the aesthetic of something or somewhere classier but ultimately can be scene for what it is and that can be described as an entry level wine bar, somewhere to experience a wine bar for the first time without feeling out of place. The quality of the design and decor is cheap and cheerful with elegant and clean touches, though it is a bit tatty round the edges and in some places looks worn out and tired.

A solid wine list and a steady bottled beer selection is above average and well priced, however the lack of attention to detail left us with a 'Endless' Pinot Grigio rather than the 'Babich' Pinot Gris ordered. We highly recommend the 'Valdemoreda' Tempranillo. 

The loud music seemed out of place in a bar that should be a good place to chat with friends. This place isn't bad or the worst bar we have ever been to, but when you compare it to elsewhere it just doesn't live up to the local standard, which is such a shame for a bar in a nice location.

 

Tony says "If you're not really on the lookout for this bar it's pretty easy to miss. Though pleasantly surprised by the charming exterior, upon entering and sitting down soon became distinctively underwhelmed. It's not terrible but there is certainly much much better out there"

Peter says "Like the Australian version of Netflix this place is lacking where it counts, not really impressed by any aspect of this bar other than the wine list. The loud music is a real turn off"

Mechanics' Institute - William Street, Northbridge

Nestled amongst the rooftops of William Street, it is set in a great location. This place is at the cutting-edge of small bars in Perth.

An excellent bar, that delivers in all areas. Great decor and design, set amongst the rooftops of Northbridge, this place is stunning all year round, protection from the sun and rain is provided by plenty of umbrellas and parasols. Wherever you choose to sit, you won't be disappointed. A fantastic little spot that just excels in Summer, the perfect place to take your friends.

This small bar has a solid bottled beer collection, an extensive wine list, a great cocktail menu and an Flipside Burgers serving up tasty food. There is always the gentle purr of happiness and people having a good time in this place. Setting up camp for the afternoon or evening is always an option with such a good atmosphere and vibe.  

Peter says "This is my go to bar in Northbridge, I have drunk here countless times and have never been disappointed, good service and nice beers make this the place to be"

Tony says "Really fond of this small bar. Tucked away down a service road running parallel with William Street, once you have discovered the Mechanics' Institute it's a destination worth visiting time and time again"

Check out their website - http://mechanicsinstitutebar.com.au

Duendé Tapas & Wine Bar - Newcastle Street, Leederville

A tapas and wine bar very close to the heart of Leederville, this place is buzzing even on a quiet evening. A popular venue to start or spend the whole night.

In a great location close to vibrant heart of Leederville, this bar really is the stand out venue in the area. Packed out even midweek, plan ahead and book a table. The ambience is electric most evenings and this just adds to the appeal. This bar transports you to Spain and leaves you in no doubt that it is serving up loads of Iberian charm and hospitality. An extensive but sheltered outside seating makes this place an all year round venue.

This bar has an exceptional beer and wine selection. Craft Beers are standard choices and craft and boutique European beers make up the bulk of the menu. Though be warned a few of them are well over 6% and can take their toll pretty quickly.

The staff buzz around the place, definitely no time for a siesta here. The service is quick, efficient and friendly. Though the night we went it seemed they were a person short and this meant the staff could not be as attentive as they would clearly like to be. Though in saying that our food arrived pretty speedily and we can't really complain about the overall level of service.

An excellent menu serves up brilliant tapas, this place is polished, warm and inviting. The kind of place to meet friends for a drink or a coffee after work or before heading into the city, it is also the perfect place to spend the evening enjoying the extensive menu and good company.

Tony says "Qué gran lugar - this place really achieves what is sets out to do, deliver an extensive drinks menu and good food to match. This place is well worth a visit, I would recommend checking it out, it really has something for everyone"

Peter says "Really enjoyed this place, the food was outstanding, great buzz and atmosphere. The beer menu is a bonus, completely different to anywhere else in Perth. I highly recommend this place, I can hardly fault it"

Check out their website - http://www.duende.com.au/#home

Fibber McGee's - Newcastle Street, Leederville

Not a small bar but a compact tavern that serves up meals, beers and good service with an Irish theme. 

As faux Irish bars go this place isn't bad, it doesn't over do the nature of the venue and in all honesty is a pretty good pub. Tap beer options are excellent. Tony went with the boutique European option of a "Stella Artois", coupled with a good selection of bottled beer this place offers a beer for all occasions and all people.

The Dining Room seems out of place but is very popular (we hear the steaks are very good) and the Beer garden makes summer drinking an inviting option. Plain and simple decor in a traditional design adds to the idea that this place is beyond an Irish Theme Bar and is actually a nice pub from Ireland transplanted into suburban Perth.

Quick and efficient service from friendly bar staff leaves a smile on your face and a generally jolly and happy ambience buzzes with life. The perfect place for both an afterwork drink or a Sunday session, one thing is guaranteed from Fibber McGee's you will leave that little bit happier than when you walked in.

Peter says "A real pub, though diminutive in stature this place is warm and welcoming. There is nothing better than ordering up a pint sitting back and relaxing with mates and this is the kind of place to do that"

Tony says "A place to savour, a real local pub. Friendly service, and a casual atmosphere just add to the nature of this pubs social scene. A great place to enjoy with friends. Grab a seat and enjoy a pint or two, three, four....."

Check out their website - http://www.fibbermcgees.com.au

Kitsch Bar Asia - Oxford Street, Leederville

Half bar and half restaurant, this small bar is slow to warm up but once you get into the place it really is appealing. A cracking little venue that really does serve up good service, good drinks and good food.

A nice themed bar that fuses the best of western and oriental design into a small place. Multiple areas in this small bar, each with their own individual identity and charm make this place all the more captivating.

An extensive and reasonably priced menu, a well stocked cellar and an impressive bottled beer list from south east and east Asia is well supported by a solid cocktail menu. Between us we tried a Red Rickshaw a brilliant vodka based cocktail and a Snow Beer a Chinese lager that was steady and mellow.

The use of Havana Club Rum instead of embargo busting Bacardi is always pleasing and shows a social conscience for any small bar.  Great character and a nice environment make this place, we suggest booking a table to make sure you can enjoy this very popular bar.

Tony says "Quirky with little touches that add to the enjoyment, Though a short walk outside of the Leederville hub I would liken it to a hike on a mountain trail that ends with a picturesque location. A good looking bar, great decor and a buzzing ambience"

Peter says "Amazed by this little place, a first-rate little venue that is worth the walk. As you walk in you realise that you have stumbled across a great bar, with good service and a spectacular drinks menu"

Check out their website - http://kitschbar.com.au