Where in Perth can you feel like you’re holed up in an Aspen ski lodge or Swiss cabin? Mount Hawthorn. Cosy fire? Check. Animal motifs? Check. Warm, rustic brick interior? Check. The Cabin brings a certain cool to a suburb that’s otherwise lacking in sophisticated drinking spots.

The space originally opened under different management as an a-la-carte wine bar and bistro looking to compete with Leederville. The new owner expanded the wine list to offer more by the glass and switched main meals to share plates. Before long The Cabin was a firm staple among wine-loving locals.

When the venue swells to its full capacity of 110 people, the teeny kitchen keeps pumping out starters such as pulled-turkey tacos, buttermilk fried chicken and brisket croquettes. Head chef Adam Giddings plates up dishes with an English twist. Salted cod and béchamel fish fingers with hot English tartare and malt-vinegar pickled onions, for example. The street-side garden grows essential veggies and herbs fresh for every season.

The wine list is varied but approachable, with options from the significant wine-producing regions, including Rutherglen, the Barossa and Margaret River. Bookings are available and there’s a banquet menu for tables of 15 or more.