The Re Store

As the lines between Northbridge and the CBD blur, Lake Street has seen its changes, with the old guard giving way to newcomers. But for the true heart and soul of the area, Re Store still stands tall with William Street peer Kakulas Bros.

John Re, the son of an Italian immigrant, opened the cafe and grocery store during the Great Depression by pawning his wife’s engagement ring for start-up funds. It was a good move.

All these years later, the business is still selling everything from loaded continental rolls and cold meats and cheese, to the pasta-machine attachment you didn’t know you needed. It’s unlicensed, so head to the Leederville store if you’re looking to stock the liquor cabinet.

Re Store rolls are a lunchtime legend, but it pays to see what’s coming out of the kitchen. The arancini and sugo di carne with fresh pasta are too good to pass up.

The venue was one of the first to bring coffee culture to Perth, so you’ll also find its various brands of beans, which are roasted nearby (by the extended European Foods brand). You can grab them takeaway, or score an espresso at the back counter. Be warned, it’s traditional Italian-style: strong, dark and kicks like a mule.