Hampton & Maley

When Hadleigh and Carolynne Troy announced they were closing their East Perth dining room Restaurant Amuse, eaters around the city were heartbroken.

After an extended hiatus, though, the Troys re-entered the game in 2018. This time though, they opened a cafe: Hampton and Maley.

It's a relaxed neighbourhood eatery in Victoria Park that’s as much about serving locals as it is helping the Troys enjoy a work-life balance. The cafe is named for the two West Australians involved in a colourful incident during the opening of the nearby Causeway.

Although the coffee here is excellent, the focus is placed squarely on the food.

So rather than raw marron or tomato and dehydrated watermelon broths, expect deeply comforting pasta with ragu and sandwiches that are a cut above. Sweets include baked goods such as fudgy cookies and eggy custard tarts rather than things poached in liquid nitrogen. To drink, expect coffee, cold brew and juices. In short, Hampton & Maley is designed to be the sort of place you might visit once a week rather than once a year.

Fans of the Troys will instantly recognise the room’s Eames-style chairs and tables (albeit with a lighter stain) as the ones that beautified Amuse. Some of the restaurant’s previous staff are also involved here, too.