The Other Side

I recently spent time at The Other Side in Claremont, a spot best known for being warm and welcoming. Claremont is an area bustling with life. The Other Side fits nicely into this lively mix. It's one of those places you can easily return to because of its clear charm.

The Other Side is at 142 Railway Street, not far from Claremont Quarter. It's a central part of the neighborhood, a lovely pocket of Perth. Being close to great shopping makes it a convenient pit stop. I can grab coffee and then wander over to the shops or take a small detour to nearby parks. Visitors often see parents with strollers, and cyclists dropping by, adding to that local feel.

The café is popular, shown by the steady stream of regulars and new faces alike. With a 4.4-star average rating from 93 reviews, it seems I'm not the only one with this sentiment. This crowd, however, says a lot more than numbers. It's always bustling in a friendly kind of way. The noise level remains comfortable, allowing for relaxed conversations without shouting.

There's something comforting about their coffee. It's smooth, satisfying and the type that makes mornings bearable. I find myself ordering their flat white more often than not. The other day, I tried a cappuccino, which turned out equally perfect. The balance of espresso to milk hits just the spot without overshadowing each other. If you're into a stronger kick, this works well for those pre-work mornings.

The compact menu is a treat, with breakfast essentials served early. The avocado toast comes well plated and seasoned just right. Poached eggs are cooked to perfection, often with a creamy yolk center. The banana bread, warmed up, is the kind of comfort food that feels like a childhood hug. It's a decent selection made to accompany, not upstage, the coffee. Most food is about enhancing the café experience rather than complicating it.

They offer both dine-in and takeaway options. I noticed many locals picking up quick orders as they head to work or class. If you're running tight on time, orders move at a brisk pace without losing quality. For sunny days, outdoor seating makes for the perfect spot to enjoy all this. The tables outside are the best, where you can people-watch or read a book. Having dogs around, allowed as they are, adds to the welcoming neighborhood vibe.

The café becomes a little oasis when you want to escape life's demands. The setting feels cozy and inviting, made better with free and easy smiles from staff. Everyone works harmoniously like a well-practiced team, serving up friendly chat with each order. I appreciate that kindness in the rushed mornings when I'm grabbing a quick latte.

Accessibility is notable for the area, especially with the wheelchair-accessible entrance. Plus, it has toilets which can be hard to find in some smaller spots. This makes everything more comfortable not just for me, but for anyone visiting. Having these amenities is the cherry on top of an already sweet deal.

Although The Other Side closes at 1 pm, it's perfect for starting your day. The early bird hours mean by early afternoon, it transitions back to a quieter street, leaving a sense of calm. People often use it as a launchpad for visiting nearby attractions or finishing up errands.

Nearby, Claremont Park provides a serene spot to walk off those gluten-free muffins. On weekends, I sometimes wander over to Lake Claremont to enjoy its walking paths. For those into architecture or history, there's the Claremont Museum. After a morning spent at The Other Side, it's easy to enjoy more of what Claremont has to offer.

Being a regular coffee lover in Perth, this café hits all the right notes. It offers that reliable charm frequent coffee-goers look for. Besides coffee and a bit of breakfast, it provides simplicity in a sea of options. Yet, it's not just the drinks and location that make it wonderful; it's the experience. If you're around Claremont, I totally recommend giving this place a go.