Loreto Lounge

LOCATION
In the heart of Northbridge, minutes walk from Perth CBD and train station.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
I remember the days of spending way too much time at my then-favourite haunt named Vultures, smack bang in the heart of Northbridge. It was one of those places that never seemed to close and always had great staff. After a complete transformation, this golden oldie was recently relaunched as Loreto Lounge, attracting a new generation of loyal customers. The interior might be a little minimalistic to the point of appearing incomplete, but what lacks in decor and warmth is thankfully made up in service. And that’s sometimes enough to warrant my return. Whether you’re chasing breakfast, lunch, dinner or a few Friday night cocktails, Loreto Lounge has all bases covered.

The menu offers modern Australian cuisine that’s uncomplicated and surprisingly well-priced. Students and the budget-conscious seem to favour grazing on the garlic and parmesan ciabatta and the sweet potato and fetta filo parcels (for under $10 a pop) while a few extra dollars will get you a crisp pork belly with caramel vinegar or garlic and chilli prawns for entree. The winter mains menu boasts a great selection of hearty dishes like beef bourguignon pie with mash or lamb shanks braised in red wine, but my vote goes to the lemon- and herb-infused spatchcock with roast beetroot and onion salad with vino cotto. Alternatively there are chilli mussels, char-grilled Angus sirloins, barramundi and more, all for $25 or less. If you’re dragging the kids through Northbridge and looking for a child-friendly place to feed them, Loreto Lounge has a great children’s menu and the staff won’t even wince at the sight of a pram. With service obviously at the forefront of its priorities, Loreto Lounge holds great potential for a long life.

Karen Bilsby