For my son’s birthday, we enjoyed a special pre-Western Derby lunch at the Merrywell. We’ve visited the gastro pub many times since it opened about 6 years ago. The incredibly popular, laid back eatery is always buzzing and often has a live acoustic band on. We made sure we got there extra early (11.30am) to dine on something delicious before the big game at Optus Stadium (about a 15 min walk from Crown). The wrap around, leafy courtyard is a top place to sit. This time, we sat inside, at a table along the curved window. Despite it being filled to the brim with Dockers and Eagles fans, we could still hear ourselves chat.

The Merrywell’s menu has an easy to eat, American “dude” food vibe. Gluten-free meals are not marked on the menu, so I ask one of the friendly wait people for a bit of assistance. Previously I’ve enjoyed one of their burgers on a GF bun.

We shared the lollipop buffalo wings, with blue cheese fondue and celery sticks. This has been a Merrywell menu staple since day dot and long may it continue! The chicken was tender and it’s marinade has a good kick, but not overpowering. This was balanced by the creamy fondue. A top share dish.

For little one’s there’s a kids menu, high chairs are available.

On request, colouring paper and pencils are provided.

Their famous mac n cheese bites feature on the kid’s menu too. These deep-fried delights were very, very cheesy and more-ish. Little Chef couldn’t get enough!

Previously, when we’ve lunched at the menu he’s really enjoyed the mini burgers.

Feeling like something light, I chose the Merry’s Little Lamb tacos ($22), their GF option for these is to serve them in lettuce cups, which is just fine with me. Filled with spiced pulled lamb shoulder, a coriander crema and sweetcorn salsa, they really hit the spot.

We were a little full, but since it was Little Chef’s birthday, we just had to treat ourselves to something sweet to share. We love s’mores and the Merrywell’s take on this American camping dish is to turn it into an ice cream sandwich – nice one! Vanilla ice cream is wedged between chocolate chip cookies, which are topped with gooey toasted marshmallow and smothered in chocolate sauce.

The Merrywell doesn’t disappoint. There’s delicious food, good service and I love that kids are welcome, but it’s not overrun by ankle biters.

About Amanda Carlin

Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, "The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life" has enjoyed an exciting name change in 2021, as "The Chef's Ex-wife" embarks on new adventures with Simply PERTHfect. Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA, as well as brunching, tapas or something a little fancy in equal measures. With her son "Little Chef" in tow, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly eating options to recommend too! Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.

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