Perth Voice Interactive

On a warm sunny day, the scent of fresh Vietnamese cuisine from High On 55 drew me in. 

Local laksa lovers monopolised the outdoor seating, in committed relationships with their beloved meal. 

The bustling Fremantle lunch spot offers a wide variety of traditional Asian meals, specialising in Vietnamese. 

Inside, an array of black and white prints line walls adorned with little triangular lamps.

The fans whirred away against the heat, and it was time for a refreshing meal.

I went for a classic, the Bun Bo Xao ($16.50), a braised lemongrass beef and vermicelli feast. 

Although spoilt for beverage options, I had to go for the staff recommended tropical smoothie ($9.00).

Even at the tail end of a busy lunch rush, my meal was ready in five minutes. 

I’ve had many Bun Bo Xao’s in my time, and this one was a tangy delight. 

The fresh salad and pickled carrots cut through the rich beef and chunky caramelised onions. 

The vermicelli had a pleasant bite and a generous serve of crunchy peanuts gave each mouthful something extra. 

The mango, coconut and Vietnamese mint smoothie was light and refreshing, a great dairy free option. 

High On 55 is clearly a crucial meeting spot of university students fitting in a feed before their next class. 

It makes for a vibrant atmosphere, and it’s easy to be jealous of all the different lunches being had around you (see you next time, laksa!). 

Discussions of assignments and meeting mid-semester deadlines did fade when meals arrived – the rest of the menu must be just as more-ish. 

A quick survey of the tables around me saw a collection of very empty bowls. 

Before I left, I had to run my eye over the extensive takeaway lunch options. 

From fresh rice paper rolls to fried rice and banh mi, there is something for everyone. 

There is a reason for the lunchtime line as High On 55 remains a staple for a flavourful and satisfying feed. 

High On 55
55 High St, Fremantle
Open Monday – Friday
9336 2604

by ELOISE BUDIMLICH