Eclectic, intimate bar with a retro-chic atmosphere, serving cocktails, global whiskeys and snacks.
Helvetica in Perth
Description
We held my daughters 21st at Helvetica and it was perfect. Great support from Barbara from initial enquiry, through the planning and then the perfect execution on the evening. Venue clean, neat & tidy. Allowed to bring and play our own music. Service on the night was fantastic. Highly recommend for private functions.
MoreGreat selection of whiskeys .
We recently hosted a birthday party at Helvetica and the evening was fantastic. The level of support prior to the event, let alone on the night, was top rate and beyond. Everyone commented on the thoughtful and swift service from all the staff during the party. The energy and atmosphere was perfect and the evening flew by flawlessly. Price was excellent, food great, drinks varied, plentiful and delicious. I am certain some of the party goers will be visiting Helvetica in the future for a drink or hosting their own party.
MoreIf you want a place thats actually open in Perth that has amazing atmosphere, filled with good people, great music, the best drinks, and phenomenal staff, especially Paul, go here and only here !!
MoreUnpretentious eclectic bar with great staff who know their whisky and cocktails ….
MoreFantastic selection of whiskey here, thanks for the memories!KM -》 หมดยุค
MoreAmanda took me on a bespoke journey encompassing multiple whiskeys, showcasing her knowledge and passion for the stuff; a truly excellent experience that was both enjoyable and educational. Definitely worth a visit (or several if you want to work through the extensive selection on offer)!
MoreHidden bar down an alley. I used to come here alot during my uni days. But now dropping by whenever Im in town. It used to be a bit dim but theyve turned all the lights on so its pretty bright. Kinda lost the sultry vibe.
MoreTLDR Summary:For majority (90%++of regular customers/punters who are non-whisky nerds/enthusiasts, the current experience of the new bar staff since Jan/Feb 2022 is OK and the bar will be carried by its variety of its official bottlings (which to be fair beats your usual sports bar by miles). But as a nerd/enthusiast myself, I can no longer honestly call Helvetica a great whisky bar as the staff members only have knowledge/experience that is slightly better than your average/normal bar. Thankfully this is at least made up by the fact that the new staff members are friendly, patient and accomodating.As a whisky bar, I would’ve given Helvetica a solid 4/5 in the past (2019-2021with the previous managers and crew, but currently (March 2022I cannot justify anything more than 3/5. To earn a 4 or 5 rating will require an even greater/advanced selection of whiskies and staff with more knowledge/experience e.g. Whisky and Alement in Melbourne, which is currently the gold standard IMHO.RTFM details:An OK to above average experience if it’s viewed as a “normal/regular” bar… but its no longer the same A-grade whisky bar quality/experience as it used to be. I used to visit frequently in 2019-2021 and they had a fantastic crew of bar staff who were knowledgeable and experienced with whisky. According to the new staff, it is still the same owner for the last 10 years BUT all the previous staff members which were knowledgeable arent there anymore. They now have a new manager and bar crew new since Jan/Feb 2022.If I am assessing it strictly as a whisky bar…Pros:The correct glassware (glencairnare still being used for whiskies, water dropper is available, the selection of whisky is still quite decent and quite decent for a whisky bar (~95% of the 200-300ish bottles are official bottlings and the rest are independent bottlingsand the overall ambiance is still the same as before. Prices of the whiskies are within reason/average/acceptable.Cons:Major letdown is the knowledge and experience of the current bar staff who don’t seem to know their product that well and struggle to locate them in their shelves. If you are a whisky enthusiast who regularly delves into IBs and less mainstream whiskies… you will be disappointed by the level of whisky experience/service/interaction the new staff can offer. Don’t expect to have a conversation or be educated with the history of the distillery and how the whisky is made (distillery info like malt info, still characteristics, distillate characteristics, cask types/influence, etc).Due to the lack of whisky specific experience, finding and getting a pour of a specific/lesser known option is a challenge and will take some time. This is further compounded by the fact they no longer have a full whisky menu anymore (or at least I wasn’t offered one).I would expect at least the manager or one staff member to have a high/good level of whisky experience at a whisky bar but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. IMHO, the degradation in “whisky bar specific” service/experience is further reinforced by the fact that the Helvetica Bar is no longer part of The Whisky Club’s (one of the larger Australian whisky clubsnetwork of clubhouses. Also they no longer have the complimentary cold cuts and cheese platters for guests like they used to in 2019-2021 which is a bummer!!The only major consolation here is that the staff members are at least friendly, patient and very accomodating for my specific requests for IBs and lesser known bottlings.
MoreVisited a couple of times. Had a whiskey flight once. Pretty impressive collection of whiskey. I like that it is down a little alleyway.
MoreLooking for a small whiskey bar tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Well look no further. Located between St Georges Tce and Elizabeth Quay, Halvetica can be found down Howard Lane, via a cobbled alley, at the back of a heritage listed building in the middle of the CBD.Helvetica is in the perfect place for a cosy, intimate and low-key whiskey bar. The building was once a carriage house, so it’s all red brick, heritage windows and timber floors.It’s all about the whiskey here. With upwards of 500 bottles to choose from and the vast majority are Scotch or Scotch-style made in other parts of the world, including Australia.Helvetica even offer a bottlekeep service; purchase your favourite whiskey and they will store it for your future enjoyment. Your wine, beer and cocktail needs are all sorted here, as well as bar snacks. Our go to here is a traditional whiskey sours which are delicious.#officially_perth #halvetica
MoreA hidden gem in the middle of the city! The best cocktail and whiskey tasting experience in Perth. We tried some of the cocktails from the menu, but also the bartenders (Allison and Barbara were really amazing!prepared something different for us with our favourites tastes. 100% recommended :):)
MoreA disappointing experience overall. The service was second class- 3 millennials making cocktails, on their phones, forgot my drink, didn’t know what a gimlet was and didn’t have the ingredients for one - even though it’s a super basic drink. Not serving any food ( not even a packet of chips).
MoreI´ve been here several times and never get tired.Staff is super nice with surprising knowledge despite the big amount of whiskeys they have. Delicious cocktails and whiskeys by the way. Definitely one of the best bars in Perth.
Moreif you’re a whisk(e)y lover, helvetica is a fantastic bar for you. We met Theresa and Barabara, who recommended fantastic whiskies to try (esp. glenrothes 12YO), and had a thoroughly enjoyable night. definitely coming back again!
MoreA fantastic experience for whiskey lovers or cocktail lovers. The service is impeccable and the playlists even better. All the staff are knowledgeable about their whiskeys and a night that was supposed to be a simple tasting turned into an experience to remember. Best whiskey bar in Perth on all fronts.
MoreIf your stuck for what to try, ask the bar tender, his suggestions were spot on.It wasnt too busy mid week either, so we could carry a conversation without having to shout at each other.
MoreLove this place, great little whisky bar located in behind a laneway. Good atmosphere, wasnt super packed. Bar staff really friendly and knowledgeable. Good tunes in the background, wasnt too loud and found it easy to relax and have a conversation without over the top music.
MoreContinually impressed with the knowledge and passion of the bar tenders. Always happy to share their knowledge, help educate you in the different products and options. Warm and welcoming. A definite stop on any night out in the city. The new smoked old fashioned is a winner.
MoreAmazing whisky, amazing cocktails and cute staff! Recommended to everyone any age, always fit in
MoreEasily the best cocktail and whiskey tasting experience in Perth. From the passion of Darren and his staff (Cal, Taz, Rhys, and Ashwho are not only passionate about their craft but are expertly trained in crafting cocktails as well as the theatrics of a proper whiskey bar, to the location that is beautifully tucked away in a rustic cobblestone alleyway that’s discreet and enigmatic, reminiscent of a Manhattan bar on the lower East Side. The selection of Whiskeys is unrivaled and their collection increases every week! Making regular returns worthwhile. The upstairs event area and terrace is amazing for private events and late night lounging, with an incredible early 60s Mod and Mad Men aesthetic. With constant new creations of tapas pairing to select whiskeys the experience itself is any whiskey drinkers dream. Helvetica is one of the hidden gems of Perth, and it’s constant evolving and innovating under Darren’s helm will make its mark on the Australian nightlife map-Mr. Amaretto
MoreThis place is a gem. Great selection, friendly and knowledgeable staff and open until late. Best place to grab a late night whiskey.
MoreAwesome laneway bar. Came in with the work crew for some Friday drinks. The venue is comfortable and relaxed. Plenty of space to sit, or stand, depending on your preferences. Excellent range of whiskeys, as you would expect from a whiskey bar. The staff are all very friendly and helpful. Would definitely come here again.
MoreIll admit it... Whisky is not my drink. If youre like me and dont go for a dram of the smokey stuff, dont let that put you off going. They do some of the most original and deliciously decadent cocktails you would of tasted. Cereal Killer and Grapefruit Technique come highly recommended.
MoreWhen asking for a simple alteration to their pizzas we were met with cheek and disgruntlement. The pizzas came out, only one was as we had ordered it... the bases are terrible, the toppings were not worth eating. I gave most of mine away.When we asked for a refund for the wrongly made pizzas they made a fuss and refunded us in cash after we paid on card.I used to go to Helvetica a bit when I was younger. Slowly moved away as I grew an awareness of the snobby staff. Now Id avoid it and any place run by the same owners like COVID-19.
MoreAwesome, cosy bar with great ambience. Huge range of drinks and some beautifully crafted cocktails. Pictured is the Cereal Killer.
MoreGet in early and settle into an armchair. The range and quality of whisky deserves your fully attention. Bar staff friendly and helpful
MoreWe came only as it opened so cant comment on the atmosphere. The service was very friendly.And as a whisky lover I was surprised to find the amazing selection they have. I need to come back and enjoy several.Where is excels in whisky it probably lacks in choices of wine. There were only 3 white wines on the menu, one of which was a sweet wine.The vibe and location are good, down a laneway behind Andaluz restaurant.
MoreIncredible cocktails experience, huge variety of liquors and really good quality.Staff friendly and professional.Grate hidden whisky bar, definitely something different.
MoreA friend and I went on the 14th of October around 8pm to observe and ask some questions about whiskey for a university assignment. The man who helped us was incredibly knowledgeable and patient. Excellent service.
MoreStaff were super friendly. Nice vibe. I ordered off menu - Manhattan. My partner ordered Whisky Sour. Both were less than average. Maybe I was expecting too much? I was hoping to be blown away with phenomenal whisky drinks from a whisky bar especially at nearly $20 for a cocktail.
MoreOne of Australias best bars, the exclusive Helvetica offers the widest range of premium Scotch Whiskey in Australia!With warm and ambient decor and design its the perfect place for after work drinks. Dress formal and be sure to tip.p.s. Tucked between St Georges Terrace and Riverside Drive, walk 50m down Howard St until you come to Howard Lane. Walk up Howard Lane for 60 seconds around the bend and your there. Best parking location is the convention center. (Open 24 hoursor catch the train to Elizabeth Quay or the bus to the Convention Center bus port.
MoreKnown for its amazing range of whiskey, its also a great spot to go for a relaxing beer. I love the laid back vibe and the always helpful and friendly service. Always a fun time in my books.
MoreIntimate bar with friendly, knowledgeable staff and good music. A little bit hard to find but worth it.
MoreAmazing cocktails in unique location. If you like whiskey then make this a stop.
Favourite whiskey bar in Perth. There whiskey selection is phenomenal and all staff are supee knowledgeable on their great variety of stock. They also serve amazing Angus beef pies and chorizo, and the friendly bar staff will mix up and cocktail you can think of. Highly highly recommend
MoreGreat selection of whiskeys - SUPRISE - Its a whiskey bar. If your friend only drinks beer or cider and you still want to bring them, theres a few craft beers available - far from mainstream.Tapas/cheese/meat plates on offer to share (freeon Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights.Great music, great people, great atmosphere.
MoreGreat place for a bit of a tipple, wine wine wine! Love Helvetica! I’ve been going there for years and have even been to cocktail making events there. Always happy vibrant staff and great drinks! It has a lovely atmosphere too.
MoreYou should step inside Helvetica for the wide variety of spirits, the inviting atmosphere, and the intriguing tucked-away location. But you should stay for the amazing staff. Their sharp attention to detail, expert advice, friendliness, and wonderful behind-the-bar chemistry have added up to some of the best cocktails Ive ever had. So do yourself a favor: sit down and chat with them, tell them what you like, and ask them questions. They will not disappoint! A+ experience.
MoreMy favourite bar in Perth. Wonderful cocktails and a huge range of great whiskey options. I visited on my first trip to Australia four years ago and the standard today is just as high as it was then!
MoreThis is a specialty whiskey bar and their range is amazing. Tried a few delicious drams with some friends after work.My only issue is that it’s quite noisy.Obviously I am becoming a grumpy old man, if I was in there a few hours earlier I would have given it 5 stars.Service was great and staff did know their whiskys nothing more annoying than someone trying to pretend they know what they are doing especially when it comes to whisky.
MoreRelaxing and cozy atmosphere. Very nice whisky collection, being served in glencairn glasses makes it feel authentic. The experience just needs some Celtic music to complete haha
MoreWhat a great place.Firstly the beer is excellent. Czech beer to get your tastebuds ready for the whiskey.The bar is well stocked and the decor is amazing.The snacks are very well chosen as well.Thoroughly enjoyed this experience and will be going back.
MoreThe best Whiskey Bar in Perth. Wish it was less popular as it can get a little crowded at peak times. The selection is endless and the ambience is perfect. Just missing the cigar to go with the vibe.
MoreFantastic little whiskey bar, wide choice of alcohol from different parts of globe
MoreGreat staff. Great atmosphere.A wonderful place to unwind after a long day, or catch up with friends.The ability to buy the bottle, and slowly drink your way through it is perfect.Sophistication. Class.A better kind of bar.
MoreA great cocktail list with some original drinks. A bit pricey but I think its worth it! Have to walk down an allyway to get there but atmosphere and staff is worth it the walk!
MoreGreat little bar. Tucked away behind a back street. Specialises in Whisky but also does great cocktails. Cosy atmosphere and great decor, not too noisy.
MoreSuper cool bar, tucked away behind an office block. The speciality here is whiskey and they sure do have a selection! Surprisingly there arent too many Irish or scotch whiskeys on offer but they have everything else from around the world. The guys working here know their stuff and if you are a novice or a pro, hey will give you the time of day to teach you about it.A definite must visit while in Perth but be wary, you will pay for it. Prices for a whiskey start at $14 a pour, rising up to $100!
MoreA rare find in this part of the country. I never expected to find a scotch bar, but this one delivers. If you enjoy your scotch or bourbon, this is the place to go. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a great range of scotch. The staff know their stuff and even offer food that complements the drink
MoreWant to order over the phone?
Call +61 474 497 580