LOCATIONVia Wolf Lane off Murray Street, walking distance from the train station and shopping malls.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAPerth may have taken its time to catch onto the concept of laneway bars and cafes commonly found throughout our eastern states and Europe, but then again we do like to take our time with these things. Contrary to these tendencies, there’s one little spot smack in the heart of the city that’s established itself as the place to be for simple Italian fare, a buzzing atmosphere and super service. Those in the fashion industry will no doubt already be familiar with Alda’s as it’s owned by Rob Pierucci; owner and designer of famed international label Pierucci. With an art gallery upstairs and the Pierucci sewing room downstairs, this building is a hive of activity for local corporates and the high-end fashion trade eager to get their fix of coffee, food and after-work drinks.
The cuisine here is kept simple and flavoursome through the use of local, seasonal produce with the majority of condiments and smaller items made at home. The main fare consists of panini, soups, salads and pastas by day before venturing into pizzas, antipasto and classic Italian dishes (like
vitello tonato) by night. With fifty per cent of the menu changing daily, regulars are guaranteed something different every day. Those with limited time for a lunch break will love the fast service and food like the soup of the day, delicious pork and apple bagel or the roast beef and onion jam panini. The majority of daily offerings are displayed at the counter so there are no nasty surprises arriving at your table. As the working week progresses Alda’s seems to become a prime location for sneaky after-work drinks, yet the food continues to deliver traditional Italian fare such as antipasto, cheese platters and mouth-watering pizzas. In my opinion, it’s one of Perth’s best kept secrets!
Karen Bilsby, November 2009