Billie H

As the right-hand-man of hospitality veteran Nic Trimboli, Daniel Goodsell has been involved with some of Perth’s best-loved eating and drinking establishments. Among the names on his CV: Balthazar, Duende, Il Lido and Bread in Common. In October 2016, the hospitality veteran struck out on his own, opening Billie H.

Taking over the former Asado site, the black and concrete venue cuts a sleek figure that is at once contemporary and classic. It’s an inviting, good-looking space, but it’s the fun, whimsical touches you’ll remember most about your visit.

The pour mark on the glasses, for instance, is a visual representation of the signature vocal “slur” of jazz singer Billie Holiday, the bar’s namesake. One of the desserts is served in psychedelic fondue pots. A turntable is armed and ready to jolt into action at a moment’s notice, but only when Godsell believes “the time is right”. A paint-by-numbers venue this ain’t, especially if you’re in the market for a drink (and you should be). Thoughtful staff are on-hand to gently guide drinkers through the predominantly European wine list.

Chef Skye Faithful draws similar inspiration from Europe for her satisfying, big-flavour cooking. An Italian one-two of shaved Parmesan and anchovies punch up confit leeks; octopus gets helped along by smoked paprika and a glug of good olive oil; zucchini flowers are stuffed with pork jowl and fried in an elegant tempura batter.

Although Billie H is a supper club, takeaway Mano a Mano coffee is available from 7am.