98 High Street, Fremantle
Ph: (08) 9335 6688
www.nationalhotelfremantle.com.au
Pub Classics with a Modern Twist
Perched proudly on Fremantle’s historic High Street, The National Hotel is the kind of venue that embodies everything locals love about pub dining done right – heritage charm, generous serves and food with real heart. But under the steady hand of Head Chef Ken Deng, there is also something more; a modern sensibility that elevates familiar favourites without losing their comfort factor.
Now in his fourth year at The National, Ken brings more than 20 years of culinary experience spanning hotels, steakhouses and resorts.
“For us, it’s all about creating a menu that feels both familiar and exciting,” he explains. “We want guests to find the dishes they know and love on the menu but also discover something new each time they visit.”
His just-launched new season’s menu does exactly that, balancing hearty pub classics with creative, globally inspired dishes that still feel perfectly at home in Fremantle.
Take the National Grazing Plate. A feast for two (or three) featuring generous wedges of Cape Naturaliste vintage cheddar, Tasmanian double cream brie, soft seeded Turkish bread, and a colourful tumble of prosciutto, salami, olives, sundried tomatoes and pickled artichokes. It is exactly the kind of sharing platter that sets the tone for an afternoon well spent with friends and a glass of something cold.
Then the Korean Chilli Chicken Wings, which deserve every bit of their crowd-pleaser status. Double-cooked for perfect crunch and coated in a sticky sauce of gochujang, soy and maple, they are “sweet, spicy and savoury all at the same time,” says Ken. Even for those who would not normally reach for wings, these are impossible to resist – messy, moreish and downright addictive with a cool sour-cream dip that cuts beautifully through the heat.
The Feasting Board is the true showstopper. Designed for sharing (and perhaps a test of restraint), it is piled high with grilled Angus rump steak, Irish sausages, Cajun chicken breasts, halloumi, garlic bread and a trio of house dips, crowned with a bowl of crisp, golden chips. It is astoundingly good value and more than enough to satisfy four hungry diners. “The Feasting Board is all about generosity and good company,” says Ken. “It’s designed to bring people together over good food and a few drinks.”
For something lighter yet deeply satisfying, the Moroccan Lamb is a standout and my personal favourite of the day’s choices. Tender shredded lamb mingles with curried cauliflower florets, brown rice tossed in a pomegranate dressing, resting on a bed of rocket and spiced almonds atop capsicum yoghurt. The balance of spice and texture is spot-on; vibrant, wholesome, and perfectly seasoned.
Pair it with a crisp 2024 Puiattino Pinot Grigio (Veneto, Italy) or a silky 2024 Amelia Park Trellis Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River WA) as we did, and you have yourself a satisfying and memorable meal. The drinks list offers something for every mood; local beers, well-priced wines and classic cocktails, plus a kid’s-favourites menu for family dining.
With three levels to explore: heritage-chic Ground Floor Bar, relaxed Level One Restaurant with verandah seating, and the Rooftop Garden boasting 360-degree views to Rottnest, The National Hotel offers an experience for every occasion.
In short, The National Hotel, open daily 11am until late, is a Fremantle icon that proves pub food can be both hearty and inspired. Chef Ken Deng’s menu captures the best of both worlds: comfort and creativity, served with a generous side of good vibes.
By Leanne Casellas
