On a lazy Sunday afternoon, the shady courtyard here plays host to DJs spreading chilled lounge sounds. The Basement Lounge inside is a gig space for local and touring bands.
Why visit The Norfolk? Well, as the signage outside this Fremantle icon cheekily asks, 'why not?'
The pub's charming heritage-listed stone building and beautiful courtyard are reasons enough to step beyond its gates. With plenty of shade, comfy director's chairs and chilled DJs on Friday and Sunday afternoons, this place is a charmer.
During the winter months, the permeating warmth from the open fire may well lure you inside. Uber-cool sounds flow in the Basement Lounge from Thursday to Saturday, and they can easily draw you deeper into the catacombs. Here, you can catch original performances from local and touring national bands, as well as sessions from some of Perth's more talented DJs, including Phil Cooker, Mikey G and Doug Disco.
Barflies can couple their appreciation of music with a reasonable selection of bevvies from the bar. There's a good range of local wine and mixed drinks available, as well as 15 beers on tap. Sidle up to the bar and order an Asahi, Kilkenny, Swan Draught or Stella Artois.
Interestingly, The Norfolk was first born out of gold rush fever in 1887 and has now enjoyed prosperity for more than 100 years. It's a real Freo destination and definitely a hallowed spot, well-worth sinking a frothy beer or two.
Jo Baker
