Perth Food Review

A recent visit to Vans of Cottesloe was an experience of sheer culinary perfection. Located on Napolean St in the busy Cottesloe cafe strip, Vans clearly stands out from its neighbouring establishments. It is a bustling little place with no pretentensions to elegance, and represents a perfect example of casual dining at its best. While the relaxed surroundings suggest a rather basic menu the food is not only interesting, but is at times downright inspired.

The taste plate to start was a veritable taste bud explosion; hummas was delicate and delicious, duck skewers were succulently cooked to perfection and the rice paper roles were wonderfully aromatic with intense bursts of flavour. The combination of colours and overall presentation was genuinely innovative.
For main course so many things sounded good. Eventually we settled on the Red Emporer wrapped in proscuitto on pansanella salad and a rocket and mascapone risotto with roast pumpkin and seared scallops. The Emporer was a triumph,each bite a mouth watering sensation with the pansanella salad providing a fresh and invigorating accompaniment. The risotto was cooked to perfection with the rocket and pumpkin combination complimenting each other beautifully. The scallops were luciously moist delicately melting in the mouth.

It is obvious that only the freshest highest quality ingredients are used in Vans, a fact which shows through in the vibrant tastes in the dishes we tried.
The wine list is interesting and thoughtfully combined. The discerning punter will have no problem finding the perfect drop to complement any dish on the menu.
As for coffee, i have yet to taste a better one in Perth. Unfortunately we were too full to indulge in dessert. However, i will reserve that treat for my next visit which can not come too soon. I really can't recommend this place enough. The tantalising progressive Australian food really does make your taste buds stand up and take notice. Vans truely is the unexpected jewel in Perths food crown.

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