It's a sunny day in Perth, you're hungry, thirsty and ready to catch up with your favourite friends, but where to go? Whether you want to dress up or take a dip in the ocean, The Shorehouse should be your destination.
Situated right on top of the beach in Swanbourne, The Shorehouse is a crowd pleaser. Catering to sandy walk-ins on The Deck and suited up corporates in the dining room, The Shorehouse is bound to keep everyone happy.
The drinks, let me tell you about the drinks. 7 versions of a Bloody Mary, 7 different gin tonics and an expansive wine list. I haven't even made it to the beers.
We started our Thursday lunch with ciders, moved onto the classic Tomfoolery Rosé (perfect for a sunny afternoon) and finished off with a couple of the gin tonic cocktails. The food was tasteful but some thought it was a little too light. We started with the beef carpaccio, silver whiting and duck fat potatoes to share.
The menu is designed to be shared with options for separate mains. They offer a Josper menu, where all items are barbeque grilled. I was assured this causes an enhancement of the flavours but I was set on the risotto, maybe next time.
My guests had the King prawns which were massive and received rave reviews and the slow cooked pork belly. Personally the risotto (Green asparagus, zucchini and pea with lemon marscapone and reggiano) was enjoyable and filling but could have done with slightly more flavour.
Can you believe the size of the King prawns? @theshorehouse
To finish we shared a cheese platter which, to be honest, was disappointing. Although delicious, it looked as though it was a child's cut for afternoon tea, not sufficient for 3 cheese loving adults. Alas, this left us to fill ourselves with the fruit of the gin cocktails.
Final judgements? The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, more than willing to provide recommendations and drink suggestions to match your food selection. The food is good, the drinks menu is great, but the view is spectacular. If you don't have time for a long lunch, at least drop in for a coffee... Or a gin.
Hows the serenity at the Shorehouse?
Tips: Book, book and book, particularly in the summer months. The Deck is lovely and suitable for walk-ins but I wish you luck on a windy day. The staff have lost a number of glassware and menus as a result of the Freo Doctor. Don't spend money on a blow wave if you are planning to sit outside.
