Julio’s Restaurant

LOCATIONS
Located in West Perth.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
When a restaurant has been in business for over 20 years, they’re obviously doing something right. Julio’s is renowned for serving true Italian cuisine to diners, many of whom have been visiting the restaurant since it opened in 1985. And if that’s not testament to their fine food and great service, you’d better visit and experience Julio’s yourself. Occupying an old two-storey Federation style house, the exterior is nothing less than magnificent and certainly eye-catching, with the interior offering homely comfort and warmth. Arched doorways and dark wood are complemented by beautifully polished silverware and crisp white tablecloths.

As you may expect, the menu at Julio’s is just as charming as its surroundings. Traditionally Italian, it’s the sort of restaurant where you really should treat yourself to a three-course meal. For starters there’s fresh oysters served natural or Kilpatrick, sizzling garlic king prawns, or my favourite, carpaccio. If you’ve never tried carpaccio before but always wanted to, Julio’s is just the place for first timers. Of course, there are also fresh pastas and risottos to choose from, as well as a classic Italian bruschetta. But the main course is where things really get exciting. The pesce al cartoccio – fresh fish baked in paper bark with tomato, basil, capers and olives – has all the flavours of Italy with a definite Aussie twist. For carnivores, there are three choices of rib eye steak with a variety of accompaniments such as garlic king prawns, pepper sauce or whole roasted garlic and aioli. As a lover of Italian style scallopine, Julio’s pork fillet with mushrooms, red wine, chilli and Napolitana sauce is highly recommended. Unfortunately I didn’t leave any room for dessert but those being delivered to tables around me looked truly bellissimo.

Karen Bilsby