It’s always a good sign when you’re planning your next visit to a new-to-you food establishment mid-meal. And that was most certainly the case this week with Lazy Lee.
Located upstairs within Hostel G on Stirling Street Perth, this hidden gem is slightly off the beaten track of the Northbridge end of Beaufort Street, Yagan Square and the Culture Centre but still within a hop, skip and jump of all the action.
The layout is urban industrial which lends to space and lots of it, unlike the cramped confines that have you almost dining on top of each other at most nearby eateries.
There are a variety of seating options and while you have the option to book, especially if you are bringing a large group or you are hosting an event and want to square up the right sized table, there’s also that walk-in, make yourself at home kind of vibe. Something I crave when I’m in the city running between events that run late, and I end up with less than an hour to refuel and debrief with the laptop before the next event.
The space dedicated as a co-working hub off to one side of the bar means I can recharge the laptop and phone, upload my draft edit as well as grab a delicious bite to eat at the same time. The spaciousness of the venue makes it a perfect place for business catch ups as well.
After dinner we also had a quick peek at the accommodation on offer at Hostel G. Under the same banner as Hotel G, our preferred digs when we are in Singapore, I was keen to compare the hostel. As a general rule, I don’t normally do hostels or backpackers when travelling, which means I didn’t even consider Hostel G an option during Fringe when I was working 30 days/nights straight and could have done with an affordable, central to the action, Perth city base to change outfits, refresh and work on editorials between shows on the days I had three or more shows on the go. FAIL!
On closer inspection, this is no ordinary hostel. Even by 2 or 3-star hotel standards (and remember I audit aka review hotels as well as food establishments for a living), the accommodation is impressive. The rooms are spacious and equipped enough that I’m already planning my next staycation to coincide with my next full day/night of reviews in the CBD. Why I half considered booking a room (with ensuite!!) tonight for just $62 for two people and turning our opening night event at The State Theatre into something more with dinner at Lazy Lee beforehand.
CASING THE MENU… LAZY LEE
As you know, I’m not normally one to throw a review into the mix after just one visit, which is why I tend to shy away from launch and new menu events, where we tend to be handed the highlights on a platter. So consider this more of a sneak peek of the menu with a few tips on what to case when you go. I’ll have to make it my mission to head back again soon incognito, in order to present you with a full, more rounded review. I know, I know… it’s a tough job but someone has got to do it!
Planning on visiting? I would start with the specials aka Lazy Deals! Top of that list, for me, would be the $10 lunch deals but seriously I would be going on a Monday and throwing a half-price Not So Classic Shake into the mix for dessert. The Salted Caramel Popcorn shake would be at the top of my list, although the classic shakes which are down to just $4 on Mondays are also worth casing.
Having said that, the menu is extensive and impressive with a lot of effort going into sourcing the freshest of local ingredients where possible. I also love the fact that allergies, intolerances and dietary requirements are not only catered for, but they are also no big deal!
In terms of lunch deals for $10 you have a choice of four options and all come with a soft drink: The Royal Lee Burger + Fries; Hawt Dawg + Fries; Salad or Mac & Cheese. We highly recommend the Hawt Dawg, Cobb Salad, as well as the Mac & Cheese.
We didn’t try The Royal Lee Burger on this occasion but if The Lazy Lee Burger (pictured below) is anything to go by… I’m already drooling and planning my next lunch date.
The Octopus Pizza should also rate a huge mention. Dripping with just the right amount of cheese on a tomato base with a hint of garlic and chorizo with the octopus sourced fresh from Fremantle.
The Loaded Cheese Fries covered in an oozy American cheddar are from the Sides & Bites side of the menu and a meal in themselves. We didn’t venture down the Asian Corner of the menu but I would be keen to try their Chicken Fried Rice and the Wonton Noodles Soup.
I’m not sure where to start with dessert. Like I said earlier, you could opt for a shake at the end of the night rather than with your meal or be equally tempted by any of the dessert options. Chocolate Lava Cake, Pancakes three different ways, Waffles… again three ways, Pan Seared Muffin with fruit coulis and chocolate sauce, Crispy Apple Pie with vanilla ice-cream and my favourite… Lazy Lee’s Sundae which literally arrives with the cherry on top.
On this occasion, we sampled Lazy Lee’s Sundae and the Banana & Walnut Waffles. OMG, the waffles. Pretty sure I’ll be still dreaming about them for the rest of the week. The toasted walnuts which I believe were coated with a mild-mannered maple syrup brought the required crunch factor to the dish and provided the perfect ending to the night.
My only real disappointment… discovering there is no breakfast menu. Hostel G has a grab n go deli instead, something that obviously appeals to the hip pocket and the bulk of the demographic staying overnight but knowing how fabulous the food is at Lazy Lee, I’d love to see breakfast options available. Still, with an 11 am start, there are plenty of food options to pull off an impressive brunch catch up with friends. Now there’s a thought!
LAZY LEE
Upstairs at Hostel G | 80 Stirling St, Perth | Open daily 11 am – late
