A NOD TO THE PAST AND A CHEEKY WINK TO THE NEW (Old Courthouse

A nod to the past and a cheeky wink to the new

The old Fremantle Courthouse, established in 1899, has been respectfully reimagined into a restaurant with an emphasis on sharing. Located adjacent to the Fremantle Markets, the original courtroom with its lofty ceilings, raised judge’s bench and two open fireplaces has been tastefully restored to its former glory. Portraits of past judges adorn the walls and the addition of an extensive modern bar and tasteful fixtures provides a welcoming feel.

“We felt it important that we pay homage to the past and the significant role that the Old Courthouse played in the history of Fremantle” Karl Bullers, restaurateur and owner explained as we strolled through the stunning buildings. We then moved outside to the newly established alfresco dining area and beer garden which sits adjacent to a lawned area shaded by peppermint trees. The area lends itself to casual dining, grazing plate lunches, or just sample the selection of local beers on tap or your favourite beverage. Executive Chef Simon Reid has created a menu where dishes are designed to be shared with friends, business colleagues or family. Ingredients for the dishes are locally sourced where possible, and the dishes we enjoyed reflected this ethos. The first dishes sampled were the Signature rotisserie chicken with house made gravy and Grilled Fremantle octopus. As the name suggests, the Signature chicken is not your simple Sunday roast, as the WA sourced chicken is brined for 24 hours prior to being rotisserie roasted. The brine is infused with lemon and honey providing a succulence to the meat which just falls from the bone. The chicken is finished with house herbs and garlic butter, and served with a moreish house gravy. The lightly pickled and charred octopus was beautifully tender and served with crisp potato gremolata and kimchi mayo. We chose sides of roasted chat potatoes, roasted carrots with honey and thyme, cauliflower and blue cheese gratin and grilled broccoli with miso and toasted sesame dressing. The roasted potatoes with skin on were earthy, crisp and delicious, the carrots were sweet and tender, the cauliflower creamy with subtle blue vein cheese flavours. The broccoli was deliciously savoury with mild charring and packed an umami punch from the Japanese inspired seasonings. These dishes were paired with the 2020 St Hugo Eden Valley Riesling which is an outstanding example of Australian Riesling where the mineral characteristics complimented the earthiness of roasted chicken and vegetables, and the zesty acidity was a good food match with the seafood.

The next dishes on offer were selected from the salads menu which can be served as an entrée or main meal. The Budda bowl was visually stunning with a vibrant display of colour and the diversity continued in terms of textures and palate. A range of fresh and pickled vegetables were complimented with the crunch of roasted chickpeas, charred corn and turmeric infused hummus. The Rotisserie chicken cobb salad, like the Budda bowl, was a substantial serving with a generous amount of shredded savoury roast chicken accompanied by crispy bacon, boiled quail eggs and fresh garden salad. It was served with a creamy avocado dressing and topped with crumbed blue vein cheese.

The final dish served was Duck and pork terrine which was simply outstanding. The rich flavours of the duck and pork were a seamless partnership and heaven on the palate. It was served with crostini to add crunch, pickles which cut through the richness of the terrine and fruit chutney to provide balance to the plate. The dish was matched with the 2010 St Hugo Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. The great structure, silky tannins and subtle oak perfectly complimented the rich meat flavours of the terrine.

The Old Courthouse maintains an extensive beverage list to satisfy the most discerning tastes. As a nod to the building’s establishment in 1899, the beverage list features 18 Single Malt Whiskeys, a selection of 18 local and imported gins and 99 wine varieties. If you’re looking for great live entertainment, check the website for upcoming comedy and trivia nights, drag bingo, live music and wine tastings. The Old Courtroom is also available for functions.

The Old Courthouse offers a vast array of culinary delights and entertainment experiences in a warm and inviting environment. So, bring your friends and we’ll let you be the judge.

Old Courthouse 45 Henderson Street, Fremantle (08) 9200 1899 www.oldcourthouse.com.au

By Chris O’Halloran