Shocking But True! A Good Restaurant Review…

That’s right, it doesn’t happen very often, but every so often the critics surprise you with a good review (well I think it was quite good anyway), so I’d just like to share it with you here…

Hidden Gem

The Charles is what you might describe as a diamond in the rough. While never standing accused of being trendy or even hip, what this North Perth stalwart lacks in panache, it makes up for with affable charm. It’s an everyman’s pub, a true crowd pleaser – the type of pub that is just plain pleasant to go to.

Renovation Rescue

While other pubs have recently renovated themselves beyond recognition, alienating most of their regulars in the process, the Charles remains refreshingly original, rejoicing in the spoils of a rowdy past. A plethora of signed concert posters hint at its celebrated history as one of Perth’s most venerable live-music venues, host to a who’s who of local and international acts.

Jim Beam me up, Scotty

The restaurant at the front looks, puzzlingly, like a cafeteria but is comfortable, clean and hums when the crowd sets in. The menu is simple, as is the range of beers, but it’s great to see the staff recommending quality brews such as the Weinstephan range. The cavernous back bar that hosts the stage area is where most of the action takes place, welcoming regular weekday gigs such as the Perth Jazz Society’s soirees and stand-up comics. The uninitiated might call it dated and yes, there is a liberal amount of bourbon signage and Bon Jovi is on high rotation, but so what? No one comes here for the vast range of chilled chardonnay.

Support Act

The Charles is the type of pub that simply must exist in Perth. It has a simple and very inviting local atmosphere. And the importance of its role in supporting live performance cannot be overstated.

The score: 3.5/5

Written by Andrew Bennett, in the Sunday Times Magazine, August 16, 2008 10:00pm
509 Charles St, North Perth http://www.charleshotel.com.au

~ by mickreade on August 28, 2008.