The Perth Hills are home to a few cider spots. First we had Core and the area (which is known for its apple orchards) also has the Naked Apple Cider House. It’s found in Karragullen, which is in between Pickering Brook and Roleystone. Naked Apple has been producing cider for a while, first appearing at food and cider festivals. You may know it’s permanent cider house home, which was once Hopscotch Café.
The Cider House is in a beaut bush spot, with the fresh smell of gumtrees and the sound of Kookaburras laughing away. Walking down little pathways to get from the car park to the café I can see there’s a lot to explore – after a bite to eat of course!
There are lots of seating options, mainly outside. Sit on the deck, on the covered veranda/patio area or inside the cosy cottage. There’s a wood fire in here, which will be lovely to sit by during winter.
Drinks
As well as cider, there is also the Bickley Valley Brewery’s beers on tap.
And of course there’s tea, coffee and soft drinks too, as well as their own apple juice.
Food
The popular venue is often fully booked for lunch, so it’s best to book ahead. The lunch menu is made up of small dishes perfect for sharing, and something a bit more substantial like steak sandwiches, gnocchi, burgers, that sort of thing. We sat under the covered deck.
I chose a healthy “Vitality Salad” ($24), and added grilled salmon for an extra charge. The bowl brims with baby spinach, roast sweet potato, tomatoes, quinoa, feta cheese (a little salty), toasted seeds, salsa verde and a herb vinaigrette dressing. I really enjoyed this filling dish.
My husband loved the crispy porchetta ($35) – almost having to resort to taking it home in a doggy bag. The generous cut of Italian spiced rolled pork roast, complete with crackle, is served with Paris Mash, baby spinach and a pork jus.
The kids menu has a good selection for little ones. With the promise of a play on the playground, my grandson wolfed down his meal. The grounds at Naked Apple are lovely and I enjoyed exploring all its little nooks.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, you turn another corner and discover something new…
As well as beautiful roses, there are pieces of art and lots of hidden places to sit, scattered throughout the gardens too.
The playground is set amongst natural bushland, giving it partial shade at some times of the day. There’s something for children of all ages. Swings, slides and lots of climbing – based equipment.
All in All
The modern Australian food at Naked Apple Cider House is tasty, fresh and well-priced. The service is chatty, friendly and helpful. I loved the grounds, which are very pleasant to have a wander around. The relaxed atmosphere makes Naked Apple a little gem in the Perth Hills!
The Details
Address: 1088 Brookton Highway, Karragullen, WA.
Phone: 9496 1138
Website: www.nakedapple.com.au/
Disabled Access: Yes, disabled parking near to café entrance and toilets. Most of the pathways in the gardens are gravel.
Car Parking: There’s plenty of car parking with a little walk on gravel paths to the venue. Those unsteady on their feet should get dropped by the door.
Grandchild Friendly: Yes, kids menu, playground and colouring in.
- Things to do with Grandchildren in the Perth School Holidays - March 28, 2024
- Best Outdoor Cinemas in Perth - November 23, 2023
- Where to Buy Indoor Plants in Perth - November 3, 2023
- Burns Beach Twilight Markets - November 2, 2023
- Weekend Drives in Perth - September 29, 2023
- Perth’s Best Waterfalls - September 14, 2023
- Amaze Miniature Park, Barragup - September 14, 2023
- Raeburn Orchards, Roleystone - September 7, 2023
- S&R Orchard Blossom Festival, Walliston - August 31, 2023
- Araluen Botanical Park, Roleystone - August 24, 2023
