Olá Tupí!
This cheeky ‘lil South American inspired restaurant is tucked away in Perth’s oldest heritage building. The Queen Street spot, formerly the fabulous Flour Factory, is now home of the vibrant ARARA bar. I was excited to check out Tupi at ARARA Perth, as I’ve not eaten a lot of authentic Brazilian food in the past.
A drizzly winter’s night in Perth, was soon forgotten as we stepped into this buzzing night spot. As well as the main bar ARARA, there’s the boutique 60-seater Tupi restaurant tucked in underneath the grand timber staircase.
Tupi served us, that’s me and my lovely friend Sarah, a dinner to remember. Sar and I used to stroll the inner-city streets some 20+ years ago in our lunch break. We were always in-search of good food and a good bar (usually ending up at Tiger Lils or Jaws). Some things don’t change!
First, to the cocktails. The drinks list, as at all Sneakers and Jeans venues (Cabalitos, Hadiqa, Pirate Life, Toma and Varnish on King ) is top notch. Being South American – it’s not surprised Pisco features heavily on the drinks menu.
The Tupi Menu
At Tupi, we enjoyed a South American culinary experience, curated by their Brazilian-born Head Chef, Diego Machado de Mello. For entree we chose the interesting heart of palm salad, and yes, it IS the heart of a palm tree!! In the image (not the best, because of low light), the heart of palm looks like rounds of cheese or scallops. It’s pleasant, but not like anything I’ve eaten before. Its flavour is like a subtle artichoke or asparagus. The texture is soft and juicy. Definitely worth trying for yourself.
A prawn acaraje, is another interesting dish. While it looks as though the prawns are on dinner rolls, it’s actually a cooked dough made from black eyed bean.
The tasty beef short rib is served with smashed cassava. I loved the rib, the cassava’s texture was a little thick and gluggy for my liking.
And onto the deliciously creamy Brazilian moqueca seafood stew. Rice and crushed Brazil nuts were on the side. These were all completely new dishes for me, which made dinner a fascinating experience!
Desserts at Tupi are on the light side. A traditional Brazilian dessert of “bridadero do colher” is simply made from condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter. The rich chocolate dessert is very tasty. It also features (on a teaspoon) of the small dessert trio, along with a banana pie torta and Brazilian guava cheesecake.
After, we headed up the grand staircase where the old function space has been transformed into a fun bar that wouldn’t be out of place anywhere in South America. There’s Latin music, salsa dancing and plenty of tables to grab with your friends.
Tupí and ARARA have brought a whole new vibe to Queen Street. Grab your mates and be sure to check out Tupi at ARARA Perth. ARARA is the place to be!
16 Queen Street, Perth CBD
Get more info on Tupi at ARARA Perth’s website.
I was invited to dine as a guest of Sneakers and Jeans. All words, opinions and photos are my own.
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