The Royal on the Waterfront

LOCATION
On the water’s edge in East Perth’s Claisebrook Cove, a few minutes’ walk from the city.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Although The Royal on the Waterfront may be difficult to find at first, you won’t forget it’s there once you’ve experienced the spectacular setting of tranquil water lined with European-style townhouses. This relatively new part of East Perth has injected a welcome dose of cosmopolitan living to the once deserted and drab area and is finally reaping the benefits. Perched on the water’s edge of Claisebrook Cove, The Royal on the Waterfront has undergone a change of name and well-needed menu overhaul while its interior and perfect alfresco area remain untouched. A relaxed vibe and plenty of room to move are the first things that come to mind when you enter The Royal. As you cast your eyes over the fresh new menu, it becomes obvious someone has given it a mighty big revamp.

Mediocre dishes have been replaced with innovative cuisine created with better quality produce and a little more love. To start with, there’s dishes like grilled chorizo, tempura-battered Western Australian banana prawns, or salt and pepper squid dusted in Royal five spice. Mains include a selection of pastas, salads, steak and seafood dishes; all of which can certainly be described as well above average pub grub. Steaks are top grade with Harvey Beef being the main source while the Amelia Park lamb and Mount Barker chicken require no explanation of quality. Fans of the Western Australian “surf and turf” will love The Royal’s spin on it – you get a steak fillet and, not king prawns, but Western Australian rock lobster instead. At the pretty price of $58, it’s for diehard beef and reef fans only.

Karen Bilsby