LOCATIONUnderground on Barrack Street. Metres from the shopping malls, trains station and Perth foreshore.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAOriginally built in the 1920s, this unique underground venue was the first bar to serve counter meals in Perth. Known then as The Alhambra, it was a buzzing hive of activity filled with World War II servicemen swapping battle tales over a cold beer and a hearty meal. A recent refurbishment has seen this historic venue reopen as 43 Below, taking its name from its underground location on Barrack Street. Now sporting a fresh new look with comfortable lounges and eating areas that complement the large bar, this iconic venue is fast becoming a regular haunt for local business clientele and travellers.
The menu still has a great range of affordable light and substantial meals on offer with dishes like the hot roast beef roll, chilli beef burger and Thai beef salad being popular choices with the lunch crowd. If your hunger demands something a little more satisfying, there are South West style ribs with fennel and potato salad or sizzling garlic prawns; both of which will leave you with enough change from $30 to buy a middy of beer! Other notable dishes include the Tender Ridge scotch fillet with grilled scallops and prawns and the Piri Piri chicken served with cumin yoghurt roast potatoes. All meals at 43 Below are on the larger side so you won’t be leaving hungry. Although if you do find yourself still feeling a little peckish, the hot caramel sundae with blueberries, candied pistachios and hot caramel sauce ought to do the trick. Service is fast and friendly and there’s always a handful of trusty barflies willing to share a story from yesteryear with anyone who’ll listen. For good honest grub at reasonable prices and a little slice of local history, 43 Below is definitely worth checking out.
Karen Bilsby