The Culture and History of Food and Drink in Australia

Australia with it's wide variety of restaurants, delis and bistros that puts it amongst the best food & drink capitals of the world when it comes to high quality, fine dining. Thanks to the mix of people, cultures and traditions, the country has a rich tapestry of flavours that is sought after world-wide, influencing other cultures and palettes.

Early Roots from the Sea

With some of the world’s best seafood at hand, many specialist restaurants have gained notoriety in recent years due to the innovative mix of south Asian and European styles, creating a culinary style of their own. 

The country has a rich history of fishing and it continues today with shrimp being a particular favourite, as well as reimagined fish and chips and other classics that were brought over from years gone by. Many new and original meals were created in the early years, with a limited but wide assortment of spices, local nuts, fruits and seafood was prepared and created to start a culinary revolution in the new world.

Eating Outdoors

For nearly 100 years the BBQ has been a mainstay of nearly every Australian home, creating not only a delicious way to enjoy a meal but as a family gathering opportunity or a party. Since the early days, sausages and chops are largely still enjoyed, with a move into chicken, beef, quail and shrimp bringing up the modern era.

With the addition of Asian, Indian and African spices – and native seasonings and flavourings, the BBQ has evolved into a high quality cooking method, with a number of pubs and bars taking advantage of the great quality food that can be enjoyed on them. Venues such as the Wembley Hotel in Perth houses a courtyard that excels in gastro pub style BBQ food making it an ideal party venue.

Bush Tucker Transformed

As the indigenous population of Australia has relied on self-sustained regional food for many thousands of years, the type of food available today has never been wider. Chefs have long used food and drinks native to the country for many years, but there has been a recent spike n interest for tasting the true flavour of the country.

There are many opportunities to go out into the outback and taste the true bush tucker with the help of a tour guide to show you the way, as well as learn about how the food is prepared and cooked in the same way as it was before the Europeans arrived.

Native ingredients continue to be used, and are celebrated in many restaurants, offering the best mix of original, regional, seasonal and flavourful dishes this part of the world does best!

Original Aussie Beverages

Whilst the import of rum and ginger ale were hailed when the country was just beginning, Australia has a rich history of creating its own take on popular drinks. With brewing companies starting early to create popular beers and lagers, the creation of a number of small vineyards back in the day has flourished into a world class wine industry that puts many established wines to shame.

From large scale wine production to small, family-run artisanal vineyards, the wine on offer is exceptionally good in all regards. In recent years, whisky producers have taken their place on the world stage to create some of the best produced alcohol this side of Scotland. Finding a great bar to enjoy fine Aussie ale is easy in Perth, with the Wembley Hotel one of the oldest establishments still running to serve customers in a relaxed style, with good pub grub to match.

Australia has many tastes to savour if you are travelling across the country. From deeply historic native foods and bush tucker, to traditional recipes that people brought over and made fit with the local produce. Fine dining restaurants and a mix of Asian, Indian and African foods to discover, Australia has a meal for every palette – even the best Chicken Parma in the world!

6 Fun Stuffs to Do with Friends That Don't Cost Much

We just celebrated friendship day and many of us are reinventing the magic of friendship once again. Hanging out with the crazy bunch, endless chatting-gossiping, eating-drinking or just random roaming, FRIENDS (had to bring out the reference) seem fun no matter what you do. 

You don’t necessarily need to spend a bucket load of money to have fun time with friends. You just need enthusiasm, love and a little time from your super busy schedule. 

Here are 6 fun stuffs that you can go with your friends without spending much:

Have a Movie Night

You guys have a movie genre that you all like, right? Or fan of a particular fantasy world? Arrange some pop-corn, a few drinks and chips or order pizza, pick up a new movie or an old classic one, invite them all at your home, have a ‘movie night to remember’.

Set Up a Book or ‘Anything Craftsy’ Club

Source: favim.com

Some of you in the group must love books, collect coins or are hugely interested in DIY crafts. Something that connects your interests. Start a club. Have meet-ups every other week. Share your interest and knowledge. Time will fly and learning something new will be fun.

Visit the Parks or the Beaches, Have a Picnic

Source: www.esnmurcia.es

Pack your picnic buckets, put on the hat, pick a sunny day and go out for a picnic with your friends. Bathe under the sun, jump in the ocean, get lost in the greens, do any or all of these while being surrounded by your best buddies. 

Fall in Love with Your Town All Over Again

It’s been days you have gone out for a walk just in the city. Now it’s time, find your gang, explore your city with them. Check out the new place that everyone has been talking about for days, visit those hidden streets only you guys know about, indulge in the smells and scenes of your hometown.

Attack the Local Pubs with Full Force 

A night with friends in the local pub, with good food and ice cold beer, who wants more! Every city has those places, popular with both the young and older crowed, have something for everyone. You know which sports bar or pub is the one in your neighbourhood, check in and have a blast!

Go for Hiking or Fishing or Biking or A Photowalk May be?

Source: www.pinkbike.com

You have an array of fun stuffs to choose from! Just gotta pick up the phone, make those long delayed phone calls, set up a date and get going! Because life is waiting for you. Don’t regret the time you are missing now for something that probably can be on a hold for a while!

The 4 Most Common Wine Varieties

If you’re a regular wine-drinker, you’ll know that there’s a drop for just about every occasion. Whether it’s the perfect accompaniment to a nice meal, a refreshing drink on a warm day or a way to unwind after a stressful day, you’ll find a wine for the job. At The Wembley Hotel, we serve a range of fine wines varying in quality and flavour. In this month’s article, we’ll be taking a look at a few of the most widely enjoyed red and white wines in Australia and what situations there are suited to.

Merlot

Source: www.mirassou.com

The go-to red for many, Merlot is often described as being quite soft, with a fruitier flavour than many other red wines. It is made from especially dark coloured grapes which are often harvested earlier - this means that the wine takes longer to mature and can have a lower alcohol content than other reds. In terms of when to enjoy it, Merlot is a classic red meat wine so make sure you have a bottle handy next time you’re cooking up a steak!

Chardonnay

Source: www.sidewalkshoes.com

Chardonnay is a wine known not only for its ‘malleability’ and varied taste from region to region, but for how easy it is to grow in a range of different areas. This has made it one of Australia’s favourite wines for many years as the grape can prosper just about anywhere, regardless of rainfall and altitude. What constitutes a good drop of chardonnay is difficult to pin down, given that the flavours are so varied from region to region. Chardonnay is greatly influenced by the winemaker and you might pick up on any number of different flavours from vanilla to citrus fruit and coconut.

Shiraz

Source: www.waterford.com

Grown on some 40,000 hectares in Australia, Shiraz is the popular red wine in the country. It arrived on our shores back in 1831 and has been widely enjoyed ever since! While it is a red, it’s similar to chardonnay in that flavours can change greatly when grown in different areas - indeed this is one of the great things about wine and wine culture. Australian Shiraz varieties tend to big, striking and highly aromatic, making it a fine choice as an accompaniment to a BBQ or roast.

Sauvignon Blanc

The Sav Blanc grape originated in France and is now grown across every major continent, with Australian varieties often described as being the best wine to enjoy with seafood, including sushi. Usually enjoyed chilled, Sauvignon Blanc can have a sparse, grassy and acidic taste compared to other whites is quite refreshing in hotter weather.

While they’re all special in their own ways, everybody has a favourite drop of wine. Which is your wine of choice out of those mentioned here? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments section below! Remember to come and visit us at the Wembley Hotel and check out our extensive wine list.

Australia’s 5 Most Enjoyed Beers

Around the world, we Australians are known for our love of beer and it really goes without saying that we’re spoilt with some of the finest, tastiest drops (if you will) brewed and bottled right here in our own backyard. Whether it be our lively craft beer community and culture or even the more common beers you’re likely to enjoy at your local bars or restaurant, we hold our own when it comes to quality brews.

Let’s take a look at some of our favourite commercially sold beers here in Australia and what makes them what they are!

Carlton Draught

Source: www.carltondraught.com.au

According to a 2015 study, Carlton Draft is far and away the most widely consumed beer in Australia, enjoyed by a whopping 17% of the country’s beer drinkers. What makes Carlton Draft the go-to for so many Aussies? 

Well for one thing it’s readily available, being served on tap in every state. The beer also is also advertised very effectively, with a number of memorable commercial through the years, various viral marketing campaigns and the fact that it is the official beer of the AFL. Another reason that makes it such a hit is that it’s makes a terrific tap beer (not nearly as good in a stubbie) and it’s distinctively smooth.

Victorian Bitter

Source: www.victoriabitter.com.au

Another beer from the South East, Victoria Bitter is just about as Aussie as it comes. The working man’s beer, VB is drunk by 12% of the beer drinking community in Australia and has a decent advertising campaign itself, having one of the most immediately recognisable and distinctive jingles in Australian advertising history. VB is a good inexpensive, full beer that is best served cold after working outside on a hot day.

XXXX Gold

Source: www.thirstycamel.com.au

Unsurprisingly, XXXX Gold is enjoyed more than any other beer in its home state of Queensland, but it also has a lot of fans around the rest of Australia and comes in at the country’s third favourite beer. 12% of drinkers buy it regularly and it was once the biggest beer in Australia back in 2012. A lower carb, mid strength beer (3.5%) with a thick head, XXXX Gold has a light, smooth taste.

Cooper’s Pale Ale

Source: www.royalmailmulwala.com.au

Good to see an ale on the list! Based in Adelaide, Coopers Brewery Limited is actually the largest Australian owned brewery and interestingly has been active since 1862. The green labeled Pale Ale is the most iconic in Coopers’ extensive catalogue and in many circles is considered the quintessential South Australian beer. It is tasty with a fruity, sturdy body and a good thirst quencher.

Crown Lager

Source: thirstycamel.com.au

Another Victorian beer with a long history, the Crown Lager was first brewed in 1919 and has remained a staple of the commercial Australian beer market since the 1950’s. Marketed as a premium lager, Crown has a fruity aroma and a balanced robust body, yet isn’t too heavy and can be enjoyed in a variety of situations - at least, 8% of the beer drinkers in Australia think so!

So there you have it - Australia’s most popular beers! Keep an eye on the blog because we’ll be looking at the best craft choice in the months that follow... And if you’re in Perth and enjoy a quality frothy, come on down to Wembley Hotel and check out our fine selection of beers on tap!

5 Happening Bars in Perth You Might Not Want To Miss Out

When you are travelling to land down under, Perth is a must visit city that you wouldn’t want to miss! From the terrific weather and great city beaches, to the lively nightlife, Perth is sure to be a place you won’t soon forget.

If you’re in the city and planning to have a few fun nights out, you might want to check out some of the following bars and pubs!

Sneaky Tony’s

Perth is known for its hidden bars that you almost have to seek out and find yourself. Sneaky Tony’s is one of our favourites and is so hidden and exclusive that it even requires a password to enter (Facebook will help you out here) and you’re unlikely to even notice it as you walk down the street unless you know exactly what you’re looking for, kinda like the “Room of Requirement” in the magical world of Harry Potter, you have to know what exactly you are looking for! Sounds super fun, ha?

It’s certainly worth seeking out and actually draws quite a crowd on the weekend. The interior is dimly lighted (MAGICAL!) and the selection of rum available is quite astounding. There’s also a pretty modern menu with tasty pub meals and wine served on tap. Perfect for a night out with a few close mates!

The Wembley Hotel

Located in the lively western suburb of Wembley, this hotel dates all the way back to the 1930’s.  With the hotel’s rich history, it has become something of an icon in Perth’s hospitality and bar scene. The recently renovated building has a number of function areas, separate bars, a large outdoor courtyard, and a restaurant, making it a good place of choice whether you’re planning a catch up with friends, corporate event or large function.

The Wembley is a family friendly local bar and bistro, supporting Western Australian brands, businesses and people (It’s all about supporting your locality!). There are a host of food and beverage specials all through the week, making it one of those pubs in Perth than you can check out any night or day and know you’re in for a fun time.

So if you want to get the true essence of Western Australia, find The Wembley!  

The Classroom

As far as quirky bars in Perth go, The Classroom has got to top the list. As its name suggests, the theme for this bar is of a school classroom, which actually is quite a novel idea but works on so many levels. The cocktail list is extensive and terrific, so make sure you aren’t the designated driver! The young, funky vibe of the pub is something that makes it popular among the relatively younger population. There’s also a hidden room in the bar so keep your eyes peeled if you’re planning of grabbing a drink here.

Mechanic’s Institute Bar

As has been alluded to, Perth quite frankly enjoys some of the best weather of any city in the world (dare we say it!). That being the case, there are plenty of sunny afternoon to enjoy a bar or two and what better place to do so than on a rooftop! Mechanics’ Institute Bar is one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city, and with it’s rough grungy, urban decorative features has a unique atmosphere. The burgers are on point, the beer is cheap and the cocktails are renowned, what more could some have asked for!

The Laneway Lounge

Situated on Murray Street in the centre of the town, The Laneway Lounge is a lounge in the truest sense of the word. The smooth, jazzy vibe, excellent service and good food makes it a great place to spend the night from start to finish. Late at night you’ll enjoy late music and a cheeky dance and it even makes for a good midweek night out. If lounge bars are your thing, you’ll have the time of your life here.

At the end of the day people have there own tastes in terms of what they look for in a night out, and one of the great things about the city of Perth is that there’s something for everybody. Be sure to explore the city’s nightlife as much as you can because it truly has a lot to offer!

5 Things to Consider When Searching for A Function Venue in Perth

Planning a function or event? It can always be a tiring experience planning and organising a successful party. You have to consider a lot of things including the function venue. Whether it´s a corporate get-together, birthday party or even something as large as a wedding, picking out the best function venue Perth has to offer can take a lot of time and thought. Obviously, the appropriate location will depend greatly on the specifics of your event, and different venues are a better fit for certain types of functions. But there is a process that can help you find the place you’re looking for. Let’s take a look at some of the top considerations.

Budget

Given that it can be the biggest constraint to your options, the cost and your budget is the obvious first consideration you need to make.  That’s not to say this should be the main deciding factor in your decision-making process, but often if you’re organising an event on behalf of a business or community body, in which case you will have a specific budget you need to work around. Keep in mind that being a good organiser may mean spending less on the venue and more on entertainment, food and drinks. The best thing to do is to do some research beforehand, and find a venue that costs less but looks absolutely amazing for that price. 

Amenities

This usually comes down to the type of event you will be hosting. If it’s a business event, you’re likely going to need pretty comprehensive audio/visual equipment, for example. Even more important, if it’s more of a dinner event – does the venue have a kitchen, tables, chairs, decorations and service staff to take care of your guests? Once you´ve decided on the kind of event you’re having and what you need, it becomes clear what kind of venue you’re going to be looking for. Make sure the venue has all your necessities at hand. 

Location

Perth isn´t the largest city in the world from a geographical perspective, and generally it’s not going to a problem for your guests to travel to the event location no matter where they live. But location should always be a consideration with due respect given to your guest-list. Are your guests coming from out of town? Are they familiar with the city? You may need to take this into consideration and choose a relatively easy-to-find venue.

Additionally if you are hosting an event for people that live in a certain district of Perth, it makes sense to hold the event in that general area.

Capacity

This may come into the equation when considering services and amenities, but certainly the size of the building comes into the planning. Everything may be perfect but if your guests simply aren’t going to fit, it’s simply not going to work. There’s nothing worse than trying to relax when you don´t have your own space. 

Also consider how easy it is to access parking and the number of spaces you’ll need with respect tot your guest-list.

Style and Mood

The exterior and interior of a building can go a long way in creating a certain mood for your guests. The decorations need to be apt for the occasion. The guests need to feel nice and welcomed. A good function organiser will understand the power of these and choose a venue that conveys an appropriate ambience for the event. Décor and other decorative aspects should be considered with reference to the nature of the event.

That's pretty much it! Keep these magic 5 tips in mind while choosing the location for your occasion and the attendants will be impressed with your venue selection. If you have any upcoming occasion, you can even come to The Wembley Hotel and take a look at our facilities, who knows the Wembley might be the one for you!

Historical Places and Tourist Spots to Visit in West Perth

Visiting Western Australia is one of the absolute must-do trips when you next travel around the country as this large expanse of land has a few gems to visit, and the largest and most spectacular of those gems has to be Perth. Perth is the most populated city in the state of Western Australia perched on the Indian Ocean located on the Swan Coastal Plain. This city has a huge number of locations to visit, so let’s take a look at some of the most historical tourist spots that are sure to inform and entertain!

Take in The Specialist Regional Plants and Exotic Flowers

Located on the banks of the Swan River and just a hop over the river from Perth Zoo, The Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, is a must for any tourist looking to spend some quality time taking in the astounding array of tropical plants and flowers on display. Not only is this park much larger than many visitors think, it also plays home to a number of spectacular views looking over Swan River. If you are looking for a relaxing day to get a break from the city on your trip, then this is the ideal location to relax and unwind. The huge collection of Western Australian plants and flowers, as well as a number of other exotic fauna are well signed along clear paths, allowing you to unwind and discover at your leisure.

Kings Park and Botanic Gardens is also a great place for a bite to eat during the day, making a perfect lunch meal for all of the family in its Botanic Café that includes local produce as well as handcrafted tap beers.

Whatever Floats Your Boat

The Swan River is the main attraction in Perth, which means that there are a large number of special functions and trips revolved around exploring this beautiful stretch of water. There are a number of pleasure cruises available all year round that allow you to take in the sights of the city, regional mainland as well as a few ferries to hop over the river to explore the other side.
One of the more popular trips centered on the Swan River is the many evening cruise and dining experiences provided by a number of companies around the area. One of the best ways to experience the city is by evening cruise, as the city lights up you will be enjoying a fine dining experience with loved ones in the warm air of summer, bringing a certain sense of Perth back home with you.

Popular Places of Note

The Perth Mint is a rather special historic location that is great for both young and old to enjoy seeing a slice of history of the money printing business. You will be able to witness all of the steps it takes to make Australian, as well as a special opportunity to see the actual gold pouring and minting process in this historic building and location.
If you want a bit more sightseeing then there is nothing better than the Fraiser Avenue Lookout. This perfect tourist location has all of the views of Perth that anyone who is interested in taking holiday pictures simply needs to visit. Another point of interest in close proximity is the Bell Tower, a stunning sight of modern architecture that is sure to be a focal point for many visitors to the walkways and jogging routes along the Swan River.

Finding a Comfortable Place to Spend the Evening

When you have been out all day sightseeing this historic and vibrant city, there is nothing like visiting a local pub or bar to unwind for the evening. Thankfully, Perth has a number of great locations to both keep you entertained, as well as offering great food and a relaxing place to stay for the night.

The Wembley Hotel in West Perth is the ideal location to stay at for your trip, featuring a number of classy modern rooms in a cosy environment, as well as housing great food and drink. Located in the ideal location to use as your tourism base, the Wembley Hotel is a favourite stay for many returning visitors, and would be the ideal location for your next trip!

5 of Australia’s Most Famous Hotels and Pubs

Australia is a vast land with some truly amazing sites and natural landscapes, but it is also home to many a fine country pub, which is something of an icon here down under!

While it’s difficult to narrow down the best pubs from around the country to a single list, let’s take a look at just a few of the most famous and renowned pubs and hotels and what makes them so special.

The Pub With No Beer

Source: www.gdaypubs.com.au

While the name of this pub in Taylor’s Arm, NSW is misleading (you can in fact enjoy a cold one here), it remains one of the most famous hotels in all of Australia in part because it shares the name with a hit from of the great country music legend Slim Dusty. Whether the song is named after the pub (or vice versa) is unknown - but there’s no doubt that the bar is special to many locals in the area and nationally. 

In fact, The Pub With No Beer is arguably the most well-known pub in Australia and world-wide and now has a brewery on the grounds.

Australian Heritage Hotel

Source: www.instagram.com/theaustralianhotel/

The oldest licensed pub in Sydney, the Australian Heritage Hotel opened its doors way back in 1824 and has been open and serving a uniquely Australian crop of food and drink ever since (although there was a relocation in the early 1900’s). This includes a fine collection of commercial and craft beers and emu, kangaroo and crocodile dishes. Not to mention the building itself is fairly impressive and registered as an icon with the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.

Young & Jackson

Source: www.instagram.com/youngandjackson/

Melbourne has a vibrant bar scene but we again give the nod to one of the oldest traditional pubs in the city, the Young & Jackson. A stone’s throw away from the world famous Melbourne Cricket Ground, this city pub is a favourite for AFL fans on the weekend, so a visit during this time is highly recommended.

In addition, the premises has just recently been renovated and now has a terrific rooftop cider-bar.

Adelaide River Inn

Located along the picturesque Adelaide River, visiting this hotel is certainly worth your time if you’re in this part of Darwin. Whether it be the unique characters that the pub attracts, most of whom are up for a chat, Charlie the buffalo, who appeared in Crocodile Dundee or Maritime photos and memorabilia that covers the walls, the Adelaide River hotel is as fair dinkum Aussie as it comes.

Story Bridge Hotel

This Brisbane pub is home to an unusual tradition that you’re unlikely to see anywhere else in the world. Organised cockroach racing, of all things, is run on Australia Day in a nearby street, and has been for the past 30 years. It really is something quite extraordinary and draws plenty of crowds every year, making for an electric ambience. Any other day of the year, you can expect outstanding food/drink and good service in a classic colonial building.

While we’re not so vain as to add our own hotel to the list, we take great pride in the history of our hotel and always look at ways to make atmosphere and menu as enjoyable as possible! The large building has a number of spacious function rooms available, a beer garden and award-winning chefs in the kitchen, making it one of Perth’s most iconic bars and a great place for a private event.

Drop The Wembley Hotel a line or simply pop in for a beer anytime to get more info!