A Perth hospitality group known for its popular dining venues is set to open a new UK-inspired gastropub in the city's southern suburbs this week. Ryan and Nikki Esqulant of Esqulant Leisure Group Australia will welcome guests to The Heart Applecross from Friday, situated alongside their sister venue Bar Ole Applecross, which launched in March.
British Vibes and River Views
The pub offers classic British ambiance and breathtaking views of the Swan River. Its name and inspiration come from The Golden Heart in London, a pub owned by the Esqulant family for nearly five decades. A standout feature is the horseshoe-shaped bar, paying homage to the family's former UK pub The Princess Alice, which boasts 22 beers on tap, ranging from Carlton to Guinness and Kilkenny.
Menu Highlights
Leading the kitchen is head chef Navi Kumar, formerly of Hillarys Beach Club. The menu combines pub classics with a Nobu-inspired Ubon menu, pasta, and pizza. Signature dishes include a theatrical flambe rib eye steak, finished tableside, King Ora salmon ceviche with nashi pear, and a beef cheek cottage pie.
Venue Details
The Heart can accommodate around 350 people, including a 60-seat alfresco area designed to maximize the riverside setting. The modern interior, designed by Ms Esqulant in collaboration with Hillman Architects, features marble finishes, leather furnishings, lounge spaces, intimate booth seating, and a curated art collection from artists Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst, and Gilbert and George.
ELG Australia is the group behind other popular Perth venues such as Hillarys Beach Club, Sorrento Beach Club, Yanchep Beach Club, Bar Ole Iluka, and Bar Ole Applecross. Mr Esqulant expressed excitement about adding to the Applecross hospitality precinct, stating: "What we've created here with The Heart and Bar Ole Applecross is something really special - an entertainment precinct where people can come together, enjoy incredible food and drinks, and take in some of the best views in Perth. The uninterrupted outlook over the Swan River is simply stunning, and we can't wait to share it with our guests."
The Heart will be open for lunch, dinner, and drinks seven days a week.
