As the year draws to a close, STM has curated a list of exciting new openings, highly-anticipated returns, and innovative local products that should be on every Western Australian's radar. From a celebrated chef's latest venture to a furniture brand solving delivery woes, here's what's capturing attention.
Culinary Delights and Festival Fever
In North Fremantle, chef Scott Bridger's Pearla & Co is generating significant buzz with a summer menu dedicated to West Australian coastal produce. Signature dishes include chargrilled Fremantle octopus skewers served with smoked tomato, XO, and creamy labneh. The offering also features Exmouth tiger prawns, Rottnest-caught raw tuna, and a La Delizia burrata. For mains, patrons can enjoy Rottnest swordfish cotoletta and Shark Bay cuttlefish.
Meanwhile, food lovers can mark their calendars for the return of Subi Spritz, Subiaco's popular European-inspired food festival. It is scheduled to run from March 26 to 29, 2026. The event will transform the inner-west suburb with a series of mouth-watering events, including a collaboration between chefs Ben Ing (Alberta's, Si Paradiso) and Ben Jacob (Masseria), celebrating local WA produce. The full program will be revealed next month.
Retail Therapy and Live Music
For last-minute festive shopping, American fragrance giant Bath & Body Works has opened its first Western Australian store at Westfield Carousel. The store offers a wide range of scents, candles, and gift sets, providing plenty of options for everyone on your list.
On the entertainment front, beloved ARIA Award-winning Australian band Boy & Bear has announced a show at the Fremantle Arts Centre's South Lawn on May 1, 2026, with Cloud Control in support. The band fondly recalled their first WA gig 15 years ago in Northbridge, stating the state remains "one of our favourite places in the world to come visit and play shows." Tickets are now on sale.
Innovative Design and Resort Wear
Melbourne-based brothers Cory and Dion Verstandig have launched Grumpi, a furniture brand born from frustration over high costs and long delivery times. Their solution is a line of vacuum-sealed, compressed furniture that expands to full size within 48 hours and can fit in a small car. The collection features four core products starting from $249, with a 10-day delivery guarantee (or $100 back), minimal assembly, and free shipping Australia-wide.
For the style-conscious, resort menswear label Orlebar Brown has unveiled its Cruise 2025 collection. The range focuses on bold prints, refined silhouettes, and rich seasonal tones, offering versatile holiday pieces like knitted polos, swim shorts, and crochet shirts designed to mix and match seamlessly.
From innovative home solutions to unforgettable dining and cultural experiences, these highlights showcase the dynamic and creative spirit thriving in Western Australia.
