Nestled half-way between the city and the surf, flanked by the natural wonderland of Kings Park and the Perth-Fremantle rail link, Subiaco is undeniably one of the State's most vibrant areas to live, work and play.
Subi as the area is affectionately nicknamed by all is a perfect blend of old and new, past and present, retro and modern - a vibrant intersection of fashion, food and entertainment.
The area is also loved for its distinct and diverse architectural style. Beautifully restored federation houses line the leafy streets of the more established areas, while a good example of modern, urban re-development - Subi Centro - punctuates the railway end of Rokeby Road.
Subiaco's heritage is intricately linked to the railway line, so it is fitting that the Subi Centro development has significantly improved access to one of Perth's major transport links. The sinking of the railway in 1997 transformed once derelict light-industrial land into a vibrant new community. Subi Centro is home to some 2000 residents and has buoyed local business and opened up new opportunities for growth.
But you don't have to live in Subi to experience all it has on offer. Rokeby Road, Hay Street and Subi Centro are home to a cosmopolitan mix of fashion outlets, specialty stores, cafes, restaurants and bars - all within walking distance.
From high-end contemporary fashion to vintage finds, Subi is a shopping paradise. The Colonnade on Hay Street is a stylish one-stop shopping experience. Alongside Australian fashion icons including Morrissey, Wayne Cooper, Saba and Lisa Ho, you'll find a handful of West Australian based designers including C Design, breathless selfh, Silvia Carr and Morgan Marks, as well as emerging designers at Merge Clothing.
Head west from the Colonnade and its shop-hopping heaven all the way down Hay Street. For the style conscious there's Emporia and Venus, for something with an urban edge try Hi-Octane, the Nike Factory, Loot and Jack or for classic designs head to Weekends Boutique, Brown Sugar, Casadei and Ray Clark Australia.
Eating and drinking make up a big part of Subiaco's cosmopolitan appeal, with a huge range of restaurants and cafes. The landmark Subiaco Hotel is a favourite for its consistently well-presented and flavour focused food, complimented by an extensive wine list. Around the corner on Rokeby Road, Funtastico has attracted a loyal following over the past couple of years with its contemporary interior and simple, flavoursome Italian fare. Newer restaurants such as Atlantic and Chutney Mary's add to the blend of old favourites such as the Amarin Thai and the legendary Witches Cauldron. Although, weekend trade is a highlight, Subi's cafes, bars and restaurants are generally busy throughout the week. There are also plenty of family-friendly establishments including Woodpeckers Woodfired Pizzeria, Nandos and Bravos.
Monday to Friday, it's business as usual in Subiaco. A thriving business district under 10 minutes drive from the centre of Perth, Subi provides a relaxed environment for the nine-to-five. Within the area there are advertising agents, doctors, dentists, accountants, lawyers, architects, designers, banks and financial planners, it's big city dealing without any hassles.
All of this makes Subiaco one of Perth's most exciting suburbs.
Courtesy: www.prosubi.com.au