The humble Australian pub (aka public house) has come a long way since its early colonial days. In the last couple of decades, thanks to the emergence of hybrid versions such as the trendy gastropubs – that offer fabulous food and drinks – we now get to enjoy the best of both worlds. Part pub, bar, restaurant and bottle shop, Besk is one brilliant example that serves up delicious food alongside a great selection of crafted beer and boutique wine. This place is a firm favourite in Perth, rightly so, appealing to beer fans, wine aficionados, and food lovers alike.

Fantastic selection of drinks from the bar and bottle shop

Set in a contemporary space featuring exposed brick walls, the atmosphere here is elevated yet easygoing. You will find over 20 beers on tap (and on rotation) at the bar, while the bottle shop offers a robust selection of beers, wine and spirits sourced from local, national and international producers. You can also drink what you buy from the shelves in-house (for a corkage fee), so there is always something new to discover and try here.

A focused menu that is versatile

Food-wise, Besk focuses on quality, seasonal produce sourced from trusted farmers and producers. The menu is enticing, approachable and thoughtfully includes dishes that pair well with a pint of beer or a good drop of wine. Small plates are available if you seek something light to snack on. And if you are a food lover (like us) who prefers to try a bit of everything, they will make great share plates for your table. Large plates offer something a little more substantial, and although the selection is tight, they provide a decent, tasty feed that is well-priced for the quality you get.

Steak Tartare

The steak tartare is served with egg yolk, pickled peppers and dripping toast. This is perhaps one of the most raved about dishes from Besk, but you will find that it is for a good reason. The hand-cut beef is fresh, tender and beautifully flavoured to deliver a lovely, sweet tang. As far as steak tartare goes, this is a delightful and elegant rendition.

Fried School Prawns

Beer lovers won’t reach out for the peanuts any time soon after they try the Fried School Prawns (featured at top of page). Served with fermented chilli aioli and lemon, these prawns are super crunchy on the outside and wonderfully sweet inside. It goes swimmingly well with a cold pint (pun intended)!

Wood-Grilled Black Angus Sirloin

The Wood-Grilled Black Angus Sirloin comes medium-rare and nicely charred. Topped with anchovy butter and served with zesty watercress salad and crispy smashed Kipfler potatoes on the side, this is a rustic steak dish that is balanced and full of flavour.

Pan-Roasted Gnocchi

If we had to choose the highlight of our meal (a tall task to do!), it would have to be the Pan Roasted Gnocchi served with blistered vine tomato, local mushrooms, brown butter, sage and pecorino. The gnocchi is perfectly charred and has a lovely soft and pillowy centre. It tastes simply delicious with the fabulous brown butter sauce. This gorgeous dish is fresh and rich in flavour and worth two thumbs up!

As a modern public house with traditional values, Besk has a passion for bringing the community together by offering top-notch food and drinks in a welcoming space. This place is very good at multitasking, and it shines in many ways, making it a popular neighbourhood hub that lives up to its name.

You can find Besk at 264/270 Railway Parade, West Leederville WA 6007.
To find out more, visit www.besk.com.au