Boucla

I've been to a lot of coffee shops around Perth, but Boucla in Subiaco holds a special place for me. This cozy Mediterranean gem is perched right on the buzzing Rokeby Road, making it quite easy to find. The cafe nails that balance between casual and elegant, feeling both comfy and a bit fancy. Boucla's got an inviting vibe that draws you in, and trust me, the aromas will keep you there.

The first thing you notice is the charm — it's in the details. Warm colors and eclectic decor set the mood. It feels like a little escape, a mix of cultures poured into one spot. Artifacts and artwork fill the room, and they somehow all work together. You're constantly discovering new things to admire while you sip your coffee. It's like a mini museum of beautiful randomness.

Now, the coffee — that's what we're here for, right? Boucla serves a solid cup of joe. Rich and smooth, it pairs perfectly with their assortment of pastries. If you're a fan of Greek desserts, you're in for a treat. Their baklava hits the spot, sticky sweet and layered just right. Each bite feels like a sweet reward. They also have a mean spanakopita; it's buttery, flakey, and filled with goodness.

For those early birds, Boucla opens at 6:30 am most days, which is perfect for catching up on some me-time before work. They stay open till 4 pm, so leisurely late brunches are on the menu too. If you're around on a Sunday, just know they close at 12:30 pm. Saturdays and Sundays are great for grabbing a coffee before wandering around Subiaco's shops and markets or heading to the nearby park.

Location-wise, Boucla sits pretty central in Subiaco. Surrounding it are a bunch of little boutiques, so you can make a day out of it. Just down the street is the Subiaco Arts Centre, adding a sprinkle of culture to your day. If you're in for some retail therapy, the Subiaco Square Shopping Centre is just a short stroll away.

What sets Boucla apart, aside from its heavenly coffee, is how accessible it is for everyone. The place is wheelchair-friendly, from the entrance to the seating. They've thought about it all, really. Even Fido is welcome! Yes, you can bring your dog and chill on the outdoor seating. It adds a nice community feel to the place. You'll often see people hanging out outside, dogs by their side, basking in the afternoon sun.

If sitting in isn't your thing, Boucla's got you covered with takeaway and delivery options. It's a relief when you're pressed for time and need good coffee on the go. Even during peak hours, it feels relaxed, and the staff keep the good vibes rolling. They're friendly without being overbearing, just the right amount.

Inside, seating is cozy but can fill up fast. It's popular and for good reason. Sunny days call for grabbing a spot outside, where you can people-watch to your heart's content. Watching the world go by with a coffee in hand is time well spent.

Of course, Subiaco itself offers loads to explore beyond Boucla. Stroll over to Subiaco Common, a peaceful park where you can walk off those extra pastry calories. For sports fans, Subiaco Oval isn't too far off, a landmark for local footy enthusiasts. Or if you're into history, the Subiaco Museum offers a peek into the local past, a quick cycle or drive away.

In terms of community, Boucla seems to have that nailed down. You'll see catch-ups, first dates, and lone wolf coffee drinkers all lingering happily here. The vibe is laid back and probably why people keep returning.

Honestly, Boucla captures what we all love about cafes — it's more than just a place to grab a coffee. It's a spot to unwind, catch up, or lay low for a bit. Whether you're here for the coffee, the pastries, or the overall charm, you'll probably find yourself staying longer than planned. Boucla's a keeper.