Where To Find The Best American Eats In Perth
Perth’s American-style food scene is alive and kicking, drawing inspiration from the classic diners and barbecue joints of the USA. Whether you’re into slow-cooked BBQ, towering burgers, or the spicy thrill of hot chicken, we’ve got you covered. With everything from bustling sports bars to cozy rib shacks, there’s an Americana fix for every craving. Let’s dive into a list that’s more satisfying than a cheeseburger with all the trimmings.
Old Faithful Bar & BBQ (Perth CBD)
If you’re craving authentic low and slow BBQ, Old Faithful Bar & BBQ should be at the top of your list. Known as Perth’s original American BBQ establishment, this spot features a rustic basement setting right in the heart of the CBD. With meats smoked for up to 36 hours on-site, it’s no wonder this place is a go-to for succulent ribs and a long list of whiskeys and craft beers. Get in early, or better yet, book a spot to avoid disappointment.
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Big Don’s Smoked Meats (Bayswater)
Big Don’s is not just any BBQ joint; it’s an experience. Renowned for its Texas-style BBQ, this spot operates out of a low-key warehouse. You’ve got to pre-order because the succulent smoked meats fly off the racks faster than you can say “smoker”. During pickup, soak up the casual tailgate atmosphere, complete with your own BYO drinks and chairs. It’s a backyard BBQ unlike any other.
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Varsity (Multiple Locations)
Whether you’re in Joondalup, Morley, Whitfords, or Northbridge, Varsity promises a boisterous sports bar setting with all the American favourites. Think mighty burgers, wings, and sides, all washed down with a cold beer while you watch the big game. It’s family-friendly and packed with entertainment—arcades and even bowling at some spots. Game on!
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Drasko’s Hot Chicken (Mount Hawthorn)
Nashville hot chicken is taken to new heights at Drasko’s, with a range of heat options from the mild “Southern” to the fiery “Bastard Chilli”. The quality ingredients and the chef’s credentials from world-renowned Noma speak volumes. Enjoy the intense flavours in a bustling Mount Hawthorn location. Free-range and gluten-free options ensure everyone can indulge. Just be prepared for the queues!
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Mack Daddy’s New York Pizza (Mount Lawley)
Size matters at Mack Daddy’s, where you can grab a gigantic 22-inch New York-style pizza, whole or by the slice. The graffiti-adorned walls and hip-hop tunes make it feel like the real deal straight from NYC. Ideal for group outings or their famous bottomless pizza brunches (booking suggested), it’s a spot where you can BYO and go big.
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Alabama Song (Northbridge)
Sip on something strong at Alabama Song, where the honky-tonk vibes are alive and kicking. With a selection of over 120 whiskeys, bourbons, and ryes, as well as live music and a classic dive bar feel, it’s the perfect late-night destination. Enter through the rear laneway on William Street and enjoy some classic American bar snacks—free peanuts anyone?
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Frank’s Texas Smokehouse (Victoria Park)
Casual outdoor BBQ dining is what Frank’s is all about. Situated in a former car yard, this relaxed venue with its picnic-style seating offers meats served directly from the cutting station. It’s fast service, perfect for those sun-drenched days with family and friends. Factor in ample parking and it’s no surprise it’s a Vic Park favourite.
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Short Order Burger Co. (Perth CBD & Fremantle)
Known for some of Perth’s best burgers, Short Order Burger Co. impresses with its 100% grass-fed, hand-ground beef cooked to medium-rare perfection. The settings in both the CBD and Fremantle are buzzing with those hunting for a high-quality bite. The simple menu is testament to their mastery of the classic burger.
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Porkies BAR-B-QUE (Bayswater)
Porkies is a neighbourhood favourite offering a warm, family-friendly vibe with its authentic BBQ created by two chefs with North American roots. The star is the Missouri-imported smoker, which cooks up locally sourced meats to perfection. Enjoy a relaxed night out with BYO options and massive sampler platters perfect for sharing.
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The Merrywell (Burswood)
Situated in Crown Perth, The Merrywell mixes lively pub vibes with a menu full of burger brilliance, wings, and shared plates. It’s a great go-to for pre-concert dining with friends or family on a Saturday outing. If you’re planning to visit on a busy night, be patient as this popular establishment does not always take bookings.
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Ribs & Burgers (Perth CBD)
Ribs & Burgers is a crowd-pleaser in the Perth CBD, serving up reliable American-style meals. Recently refurbished, this spot offers quick and flavourful bites perfect for city workers or anyone wanting a dependable ribs and burger fix. Lunchtime specials make it an attractive pit-stop for those in the area.
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Hoodburger (Northbridge & Inglewood)
Chase away cravings at Hoodburger, where they’ve refined the traditional American cheeseburger to delicious simplicity, serving them with smashed-style patties. Despite kicking off as a pop-up, this mainstay offers affordable bites in a no-fuss setting. Get your fix at the Northbridge food court or head to Inglewood for a quiet feast.
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RoyAl’s Chicken and Burgers (Victoria Park)
RoyAl’s brings big flavours to Victoria Park thanks to its knockout chicken burgers. Whether fried or grilled, each bite is loaded with flavour. The space itself is vibrant and filled with dynamic murals, creating a buzzing dining spot along Albany Highway. It’s perfect for those in need of a saucy, comforting meal.
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Ribs Lane (Subiaco & Mount Lawley)
Ribs Lane offers up some of the juiciest BBQ ribs you’ll find in Perth, cooked until they practically melt off the bone. Catering to those with an appetite for variety, they also whip up a mean seafood boil. The bonus? Halal-certified fare that’s perfect for diverse palates in Subiaco and Mount Lawley.
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That’s your American-style feast expedition around Perth sorted. Now go give these venues the full Perth road test they deserve. Happy eating, mate!