by Buster the bruncher
Perth’s conversion of an empty, historic building to a classy city food hub and posh hotel is a masterstroke.
Luxury hotel, Como The Treasury, has been joined by classy eateries and bars including our brunch target, the café Petition.
The reconfigured State Buildings, on the corner of St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street, served as the base for State departments: Treasury, Lands and Titles.
We can only imagine – and sympathise – with what was on the working colonialists’ menus 100 years ago.
What would they think of today’s frozen acai bowl with nut and seed granola, dragon fruit and berries, for $18 at Petition?
Or our chosen shakshuka, halloumi, toasted focaccia and fried egg at $25?
Sipping on our $4 black coffees ($4.50 for white coffee), we scrutinised the classy café with its black timber flooring, black tables and black chairs.
Music level was lusciously low, lighting was good and, under super-high ceilings, the café is roomy with plenty of cushioned seating and the odd long table.
Petition is a welcome addition to Perth’s fine dining. The name reflects residents’ petitions because 100 years ago they protested outside these State buildings, the official centre of Perth.
Ideal for special occasions and conferences, given its high standards, Petition’s prices are far from outrageous.
A simple serve of eggs ‘your way’ on buttered, toasted sourdough is $16. A formidable ‘breaky burger with pork and fennel patty, fried egg, spinach, provolone, tomato relish and hash browns’ is $28.
The menu has been cleverly balanced for flavours as well as for light and heavy eaters.
Charred sourdough with butter and preserves is a reasonable $9. Pulled beef on toast, rocket, poached egg and romesco sauce might be a share-dish for seniors, given its size, at $26.
Sides are tempting: avocado, sautéed kale and spinach with confit cherry tomatoes and egg is just $4. House-made hash brown, halloumi, feta and coconut yoghurt is $7.
Our chosen juices (by Pressed Earth), The Green (apple, kale, lemon) and the Watermelon were $9 each. Genuine and refreshing.
Morning cocktail anyone? Bloody Mary ($22) or espresso martini ($19).
In the words of the café: “Petition is a casual, contemporary restaurant that showcases fresh local produce with something for everyone’s tastes.”
Take a train, catch a bus, hitch a ride, order a taxi or Uber for central city – especially for that special guest or occasion. Petition, in one word, by Buster’s brunch buddy, Professor Ken is “fabulous”.
5 Spoons
Petition, corner of St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street, Perth.
Open Mon-Fri, 7am to 10.30pm.
Sat-Sun, 8am to 10.30pm.
Phone: 6168 7771
