Perth has a (perhaps unfair) reputation for being a quiet city. But there’s plenty to do after the Fremantle Doctor has rolled in, and well into the night. Perth and Northbridge offer a vibrant blend of classy cocktail and wine bars, live music institutions, late-night arcade games and more. Whether you’re a local looking for a night out or a blow-in enjoying the city for the first time, consult this list of the best places to visit after 10pm (before you book that Didi).

Astral Weeks, Northbridge

This hidden listening bar is as close as you’ll get to Tokyo on a night out in Perth. The intimate 60-seater nods to Japan’s iconic listening bars, where music is the focus, not just the background noise. Inside, downlights draw attention to the bar and DJ booth, while records are tucked into custom-made chestnut shelves. The moody bar hits all the right notes with its hand-built Line Magnetic sound system, which fills the space with punchy, crystal-clear sound while leaving room for easy conversation. The bartenders spin records between serving wines, beers, cocktails and saké. And it just got even better with the addition of a hidden dining room, Ah Um, out the back.

Picabar, Northbridge

Picabar is a Northbridge stalwart that heaves on the weekends. On a balmy afternoon, you’ll spot swarms of drinkers soaking up rays on the deck and under the giant fig tree. Head here for a pint before launching into a night exploring Northbridge. To eat, there’s elevated pub fare like steak sandwiches, kangaroo schnitzel with mash, and braised beef cheek pasta. Or return after dinner at a nearby restaurant to keep the party going – it’s open until midnight every night.

Never miss a Perth moment. Make sure you're subscribed to our newsletter today.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Palace Arcade, Northbridge

When you’re starting to fade, Palace Arcade will reboot you with its killer combo of top booze, American snacks and nostalgic arcade games. Recharge your crew with share-friendly Buffalo wings, lasagne spring rolls and jalapeno croquettes, or order New York-style pizzas like the pepperoni or the conti, with pancetta and pickled chilli. Then, load up your games card and play arcade classics from the ’80s and ’90s – like pinball, NBA Jam and Daytona USA. The number one rule of the after-dark arcade: whoever loses the game shouts the next round. If you’re ready for more, send them straight back to the bar to stock up on the selection of alc-spiked slushes, cocktails, tinnies and wines.

Bar Love, Northbridge

Step back into the ’70s at this love shack-themed cocktail bar. Glimmering gold signage across the front window makes a persuasive case for what’s inside: “Cold Drinks, Warm Service and Hot Bartenders”. And the sign doesn’t lie. Inside, the maximalist space features velvet love seats and vibrant pink and burnt orange walls. The creations behind the bar are top quality – including the Vamos Martini, a mash-up of a classic Espresso Martini and the Tiktok-famous Mont Blanc coffee. Plus, there are bar snacks from Peasants Paradice next door, like a chicken parfait with sweet chutney and a curried-chicken-and-black-bean foldover pie. On the weekends, it’s all love here until midnight.

The Bird, Northbridge

Whoever in your crew is ordering a rideshare home, tell them to wait. A night out in Perth isn’t complete without a visit to The Bird, one of the city’s best-loved small bars and live music haunts. Its stage has hosted some of Perth’s finest musical exports, including Tame Impala, Flume, Methyl Ethel and Stella Donnelly. On most nights, its shabby-chic bandroom hosts diverse musical outfits, from funk to grunge to electro-pop. But there’s as much room for conversation as there is music appreciation, particularly in the beer garden out back. Order a beer or wine inside, then head outside to soak up the good vibes and DJ sets.

Additional reporting by Max Veenhuyzen and Madeline Wallman.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with DiDi. Spend less on your ride with DiDi and more on what matters – whether it’s an amazing meal, another round of drinks, or tickets to the hottest event in town. Download DiDi to ride for less.