Lowdown

Whenever I head over to Lowdown in Cloisters Arcade, it feels like I've stumbled onto one of Perth's best-kept secrets. It's like that cozy nook you always wanted but maybe never found until now. The location is right smack in the heart of Perth, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. It's a perfect spot to grab a quick coffee before exploring the Hay Street area.

Lowdown isn't open on weekends, which might be a bit of a bummer if you're a weekend coffee-shop explorer like me. They're open weekdays though, from 6 am to 4 pm. So, while you won't be able to lounge around with a cup on a lazy Saturday, weekday mornings are perfect for a coffee run before diving into work or maybe a post-lunch caffeine hit. For folks like me who work nearby, catching that morning coffee is a daily ritual. It's one of those places where the baristas recognize you after a few visits, and that's always nice.

When it comes to coffee, they know what they're doing. I'm talking about consistently great coffee that satisfies, whether you're a flat white fan or more into the lattes. You know how some places can get it right one day and horribly wrong the next? Lowdown manages to hit the sweet spot every time. Their house-made treats are worth a mention too, perfect if you're looking to add a little sweetness to your day.

The seating at Lowdown is a mix of things. They've got outdoor seating, which is nice when the sun's out and you want to people-watch a little. The place is wheelchair-accessible, which is great to see. Inside, there's this inviting atmosphere you can't quite put your finger on but makes you want to stay. It's a place that buzzes with conversation, laughter, and of course, the rich aroma of coffee beans.

If you're ever in the mood to bring your dog along, you'll be glad to know they allow pets. Nothing quite like sipping your espresso with your furry friend chilling beside you. It adds to the community vibe that places like these thrive on.

Just stepping out after coffee, you're right in the mix of Perth's CBD. The Hay Street Mall is just nearby - perfect for a little window shopping or real shopping if you feel like indulging. Plenty of stores for you to wander around. It's a vibrant area, busy in a good way, and perfect for soaking in the city's energy.

Feeling the need to explore a bit? The Perth Cultural Centre isn't far, and it's totally worth checking out. You've got everything from the Art Gallery of WA to the Blue Room Theatre if you're in the mood for some arts and culture. Even if you just want to sit at the Urban Orchard in the Cultural Centre, it's a nice way to round off your visit after that coffee at Lowdown.

Further down the street is Elizabeth Quay, which is brilliant for leisurely walks. You get views of the water, and when the city catches the late afternoon light, it's pretty nice to look at. Maybe grab a coffee to go from Lowdown and head down there.

What really sets Lowdown apart, though, is the crowd. It's a melting pot of all sorts of people – office workers on their breaks, students catching up on studies, and the occasional tourist plopped down, soaking in the local vibe. It adds to the life and heart of the place.

Speaking of life, don't even get me started on the staff. Friendly, cheerful, and always up for a little banter. It makes every visit feel almost like catching up with old friends rather than just a quick transaction. Quick service too, which is ideal if you're like me and usually mid-rush during a busy day.

If you crave a cozy spot that serves reliably good coffee and houses a splash of personality, Lowdown is the place. It's the kind of spot that can turn a mundane weekday into a moment you look forward to. You might come for a cup, but don't be surprised if you end up staying for the company, the vibe, and the camaraderie.

The blend of Lowdown and the surrounding sights of Perth makes for a coffee shop visit that's more than just about coffee. It's part of a whole experience. And when you visit enough coffee shops, you come to appreciate that combination. That's what keeps people like me coming back time and time again.