Fremantle's Secret Spaces | 9 Cosy Bars and Cafes Away From the Main Drag

Fremantle has its share of iconic cafes and famous pubs, but there’s another thing it has in spades – cosy venues you never knew were there.

Tucked away bars, attic cafes and southern-American honky tonk hidden in heritage buildings, for instance. These places don’t shout, but they give a warm welcome when you stumble upon them.

Here are 9 of our favourite spots from Freo's less-travelled side streets.

1. Darling Darling

This dimly-lit gem on Henry Street has a salty seafarer’s vibe that hits as soon as you’re through the unassuming doorway into the moody space, where maritime paraphernalia lines every surface and peanut shells crunch underfoot. You’ll definitely want to drink rum here. Especially on Sundays when the fiddler drops in.

Image: Darling Darling

2. Honky Tonk 

Freo's honky tonk haven! Two-step into a world of authentic country vibes, live music and good ol' southern hospitality. Honky Tonk's new home was built in 1903 and this heritage West End building is the perfect spot to kick back. 

3. Good Things

Keeping with the exposed brick theme, but with more of an attic feel, Good Things is a daytime option keeping its delicious little secret down Bannister Street. The brunch is excellent, and the stairs will help you walk it off.

4. Little French Nest

Another brunch worth exploring off-strip for? Light and bright in Point Street, it has excellent pastries and a French-inspired menu you’ll want to return for.

Image: Gimlet

5. Gimlet

Speaking of pastry, do you know Gimlet? It’s the quiet but classy little sister to Emily Taylor at the Warders Hotel. Tucked away with enough seating for just a few people, it’s a gin bar by night, but by day it’s one of Freo’s most secluded coffee stops.

6. Calamity’s Rod

Back in the West End, this one keeps an unassuming profile in sea container surrounds next to the Hougoumont Hotel. Enjoy beer from its eponymous label, plus some funky street art and a chilled vibe.

7. Nieuw Ruin

Masquerading as a cute cottage in Norfolk Street, this is a bar whose dark timber and lamp light are a beacon on winter nights (there are braziers on the terrace, too). A short dash from the Luna on SX, its wine list is inspiring and the food is a treat.

8. Madalena’s

Been to South Fremantle lately? Madalena’s has gone up in the world. Its new upstairs bar is a comfortable eyrie with warm timber overlooking the south end of South Terrace. Enjoy cocktails overlooking the sea.

9. Wild in the Street

A block down, this is a new bar honouring the essence of South Fremantle life. It champions verdant greens, vibrant colours and a fondness for food and drink. Look twice for the signage. Like all good secrets, this and other cool, tucked-away premises in Freo can take some sleuthing out.

Hero image: Madalena's (new upstairs bar). Credit: Duncan Wright