AceHighWine

Sitting pretty on prime portside real estate, The Mussel Bar is unquestionably one of Fremantle’s best eateries.

And while its million dollar views (and for out-of-towners, in a real estate market that’s gone gangbusters, I’m writing literally here) might be a little too dear for most, the restaurant’s prices are a little more down to earth and within grasp for Joe and Joanne Average, placing The Mussel Bar in the category of affordable fine dining.

For those sick of being stung by waterside restaurants that expect diners to make allowances for average cuisine on the strength of “location, location, location”, I suggest you book a table at The Mussel Bar post haste. Reflecting the lighter dining habits of summer, the new menu features a distinct Asian slant (pun intended, as a half-Chinese Australian, I can say these things) on the seafood-heavy menu: the stalwart salt and pepper squid partnered with Asian coleslaw and sticky lime dressing is joined by miso and pickled ginger oysters, salmon fillet with yam noodles and peanut sesame sauce and the oriental staple of roasted pork belly.

Alternatively, tried and tested dishes including char grilled beef fillets, the obligatory fish of the day and fish and chips as well as a a seafood platter of Neptunic proportions are also on call for when appetites yearn for something distinctly Freo. And of course, one can’t forget the mussels either with current flavours including traditional chilli, moules marinieres and Thai green curry.

The short but sweet dessert list looked appealing, but after giving the menu and accompanying wine - while not the city’s largest, The Mussel Bar’s wine list is thoughtful and interesting with the majority of by-the-glass wines being home-grown - a red hot go, decided that it would have to wait for another day - and hopefully that day isn’t too far away… www.musselbar.com.au

The Mussel Bar, 42 Mews Road, Fishing Boat Harbour, Fremantle. Call 9433 1800.