Fremantle Markets have been operating in the same place since 1897, which is quite a feat. A destination in itself, it’s a hub for fresh produce, organic goods, unusual eateries, indigenous and independent goods, and music and kiddies events on the weekend. I find Bush Food Cafe near the fruit and vegetables and the first thing I notice is, no, not the scones on the counter, but the colourful wall murals and the inscription – “Kaya is hello in Nyoongar” and the virtues of kangaroo, crocodile and emu meat. The cafe is run by local Nyoongar women Glenda Morrison and Neta Knapp and it serves witchety grubs, kangaroo stew and tail, emu, crocodile, roo dogs, wattle seed and quandong cakes and gum leave tea. At an indigenous themed cafe it’s weird to find scones, but then again, I wouldn’t expect to be served by a young guy with a thick Italian (?) accent I can barely understand. I’m a little disappointed when my scone is halved and dressed with the jam and cream, I do so prefer to do that myself – it’s part of the experience. I also like my scones slightly warm; I never did like cold pikelets (mini pancakes) as a kid. There’s an unusual choice of jams and I try the quandong, although there is passionfruit/berry/fig marmalade (I think – remember, the Italian accent). I can’t really taste the jam as it’s thinly spread and the cream is fresh but very light. Pick up some unusual goodies before you leave.
Tea: A range of teas including Australiana stuff like Aussie Breakfast, Gum Leaf Tea and Kimberley Tea.
Price: $$
Overall: Strategically situated in the fruit and vegetable section of Fremantle markets.
Location: Fremantle Markets, Stall Y124, Cnr South Terrace & Henderson St, Fremantle WA 6160
Ph: 08 9335 2515 www.fremantlemarkets.com.au
Reviewed March, 2015