Foxtrot Unicorn

Warning: descending the steps to this CBD watering hole may trigger flashbacks.

The chesterfield couches. The framed early-20th-century surveyor’s maps of South Perth, Bicton and Como. The Aladdin’s cave of vintage, bar-related paraphernalia and Westraliana. It’s enough to make you wonder whether you’ve tumbled back through time.

There’s no need to adjust your set. This vintage aesthetic is simply a reflection of the tastes of Dimitri Rtshiladze, veteran Perth bartender and owner of Foxtrot Unicorn. And despite his fondness for the historic – and the 130-year-old site – this bar offers a contemporary drinking experience.

Drinks such as the Honeycomb Old-Fashioned are mementos of bar manager Tom Kearney’s time at venues such as Dominion League, Palace Arcade and Panama Social. In addition to a thoughtfully selected back bar of spirits and a tight menu of cocktails organised by group (classics, highballs, native, alcohol-free), drinkers can also sample rare vintage spirits and, for those feeling frisky, ask to have classic drinks made with these liquid time capsules. A brisk Martini made with 1950s gin, anyone?

In addition to olives, anchovies and a tight selection of cheeses from WA and further afield, there’s also a jaffle menu starring a 10-cheese number featuring an ingredient known only as “jaffle crack”. There are also changing weekly specials – in the past there’s been a bolognaise-stuffed number, a chicken pot pie version and another with pork rillette and caramelised onion.